- Recommended
Lancaster City Museum
City museum in the old town hall with archaeology, local history, and decorative arts. A strong introduction to Lancaster’s past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Lancaster
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
lei17
Average price
lei32
Fastest journey
15 m
Average duration
16 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Lancaster is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Lancaster will cost around lei32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei17.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Preston for Lancaster on Tue, Aug 04, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct trains cover the 34 km distance in an average of 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 15 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 17 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:33 AM0h17Preston9:50 AMLancasterlei171One-way0 transfers- 6:34 AM0h17Preston6:51 AMLancasterlei311One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 AM0h17Preston10:02 AMLancasterlei331One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 AM0h17Preston9:02 AMLancasterlei331One-way0 transfers
3:03 PM0h15Preston3:18 PMLancasterlei371One-way0 transfers
- 3:03 PM0h15Preston3:18 PMLancasterlei371One-way0 transfers
- 9:05 PM0h15Preston9:20 PMLancasterlei381One-way0 transfers
- 6:34 AM0h17Preston6:51 AMLancasterlei311One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 AM0h17Preston10:02 AMLancasterlei331One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 AM0h17Preston9:02 AMLancasterlei331One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Lancaster
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Lancaster run on average 8 times per day, taking around 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at lei14 if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 23:26. The fastest train covers the 21 miles (34 km) distance in 14m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 21 miles (34 km) |
Average train duration 16m |
Cheapest ticket price lei14 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 14m |
First train 5:13 AM |
Last train 11:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Live departures
Preston to Lancaster train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Lancaster trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W33912 | On time 11:41 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0h14 | 11:55 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89047 | On time 11:44 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0h18 | 12:02 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33941 | Delayed 11:03 AM 11:53 AMPreston station (PRE) | 0h14 | 11:16 AM 11:16 AMLancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85179 | On time 12:03 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h15 | 12:18 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34033 | On time 12:40 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h14 | 12:54 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89071 | On time 12:46 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h17 | 1:03 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33935 | On time 12:54 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h14 | 1:08 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85185 | On time 1:09 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h15 | 1:24 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34016 | On time 1:41 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h14 | 1:55 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89072 | On time 1:46 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h17 | 2:03 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34286 | On time 1:54 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h14 | 2:08 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85188 | On time 2:05 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h15 | 2:20 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34187 | On time 2:41 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h14 | 2:55 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89051 | On time 2:45 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h17 | 3:02 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C01372 | On time 2:54 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h14 | 3:08 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85191 | On time 3:03 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h15 | 3:18 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89067 | On time 3:33 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0h17 | 3:50 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, August 4 | |||||
| 6:34 AM Preston | 0h17 | 6:51 AM Lancaster | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:45 AM Preston | 0h17 | 9:02 AM Lancaster | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:33 AM Preston | 0h17 | 9:50 AM Lancaster | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:45 AM Preston | 0h17 | 10:02 AM Lancaster | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Preston to Lancaster trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Northern Rail or Transpennine Express offer trains services from Preston to Lancaster.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Lancaster.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail or Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Lancaster.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Lancaster.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail or Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Lancaster.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Lancaster.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express from Preston to Lancaster trainsAvanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Preston and Lancaster from lei14. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14m
Cheapest Price
lei57
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
17m
Cheapest Price
lei14
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15m
Cheapest Price
lei37
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Lancaster
Things to do in Lancaster
Discover the best of Lancaster — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lancaster trip today.
- Recommended
Lancaster Maritime Museum
Maritime museum in the old customs house exploring Lancaster’s port history, trade, and seafaring links across Morecambe Bay and beyond.
- Recommended
Judges' Lodgings Museum
Period house museum with Gillow furniture, fine interiors, and stories of law and domestic life. One of Lancaster’s best heritage visits.
- Must visit
Williamson Park
Hilltop park with woodland walks, city views, and the Ashton Memorial. A favorite green space that combines scenery, heritage, and easy strolling.
- Recommended
Castle Hill
Elegant Georgian street with some of Lancaster’s finest architecture. Ideal for appreciating the city’s prosperous 18th-century streetscape.
- Recommended
Dalton Square
Tree-lined civic square framed by impressive public buildings and monuments. A central open space often used for events and seasonal displays.
- Vegetarian
Garstang Biscuits
Buttery shortbread-style biscuits linked to nearby market town Garstang. A classic Lancashire teatime treat with a crumbly texture and local heritage.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A robust hotpot of lamb or mutton with onions, often topped with sliced potatoes. It is one of Lancashire’s best-known traditional comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
Crumbly white cow’s milk cheese traditionally made in Lancashire. It is prized for its fresh, tangy taste and long-standing regional cheesemaking history.
Quite Simply French
Refined modern British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting. One of Lancaster’s standout fine dining destinations.
The Water Witch
Long-established canal-side pub and restaurant known for cask ales, British classics and a traditional atmosphere in a historic setting.
The Quarterhouse
Stylish bistro serving French-inspired and modern European dishes. Popular for polished cooking and a relaxed city-centre atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and everyday meals stay fairly reasonable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Lancaster Railway Station -> Lancaster Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Lancaster. Ask for the best-value ticket if you are making multiple trips.
- Lancaster has no tram or metro system; local public transport is mainly buses and trains. Check live bus times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Lancaster
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Lancaster by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lancaster, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Lancaster can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at lei14, while the average price is around lei40.
The train from Preston to Lancaster takes 14m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Preston to Lancaster is 21 miles (34 km).
The first train from Preston to Lancaster leaves at 5:13 AM.
The last train from Preston to Lancaster leaves at 11:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Lancaster.
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston to Lancaster. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Preston to Lancaster.
The train station in Preston that goes to Lancaster is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Lancaster station (LAN).
The train journey from Preston to Lancaster offers pleasant views of the English countryside, with glimpses of rolling hills and charming rural landscapes, making it a scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Lancaster.
Popular day trips by train from Lancaster include Manchester, Leyland, Liverpool, Windermere, Oxenholme.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Lancaster, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional petty theft, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots. It's advisable to be wary of unsolicited offers for transportation or tours, as some may involve overcharging or scams. Always use licensed transportation services and verify ticket sellers to avoid counterfeit tickets. Staying alert and safeguarding personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Preston to Lancaster
Most Preston to Lancaster trains use the Preston to Lancaster station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Lancaster train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Preston
Arrival train stations in Lancaster
Which Preston station do trains to Lancaster leave from?
Trains from Preston to Lancaster leave from Preston. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre at Fishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · lei50 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Which Lancaster station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Lancaster arrive at Lancaster. Lancaster is 1 miles (3 km) from Lancaster city centre.
LancasterLancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NW
City-centre transport
Getting to Lancaster from Lancaster city centre
Lancaster is 2 km from Lancaster city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthwest Chief · 65h 2m · lei5243
Pennsylvanian · 17h 47m · lei2625
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 65h 11m · lei4601
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 75h 46m · lei5891
BusGreyhound US1210 · 69h 20m · lei3094
Lancaster train station facilities and services
Lancaster has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lancaster.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lancaster. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lancaster: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lancaster: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lancaster: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Lifts to All Platforms, accessible via taking the right hand entrance to the over bridge from the ticket office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Lancaster
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lancaster and Preston
Most popular train connections to Lancaster
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