- Must visit
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Victorian mansion housing Luton's main museum and gallery, covering local history, hat making, and decorative arts in a landscaped park setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Luton
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$114
Average price
$114
Fastest journey
4 h 55 m
Average duration
4 h 55 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
261 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Luton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Luton will cost around $114 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $114.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Preston for Luton on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 261 km distance in an average of 4 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 55 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 55 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.
7:20 AM4h55Preston12:15 PMLuton$1141One-way0 transfers
- 7:20 AM4h55Preston12:15 PMLuton$1141One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Preston to Luton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a flight costs an average of $86.
Distance: 162 miles (261 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$110 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $201 Average price | $84 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 53m Average total duration 3h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 2m Average total duration 6h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Luton is a bus with an average price of $41 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Luton:
A bus is $68 (€56) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Luton costing on average $110 (€90).
A bus is $159 (€131) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Preston to Luton costing on average $201 (€164).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Luton is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 20m.
Other travel options to Luton take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 23m.
Bus takes on average 6h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Preston and Luton including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Luton among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 5m sooner (3h 23m by train vs 3h 28m by car). Tickets start at around $110 (€90) compared to roughly $84 (€69) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Preston to Luton train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Luton trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:18 PM Preston | 3h53 | 8:11 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 7:20 AM Preston | 4h55 | 12:15 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Luton by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Jun 20
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Why should you book Preston to Luton trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Luton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Luton.
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 Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Luton.
- 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Luton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Luton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Luton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Luton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Luton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $77 (€63) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 21:40. The fastest train covers the 162 miles (261 km) distance in 3h 26m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22 (€18)
Distance 162 miles (261 km) |
Average train duration 3h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 (€63) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 26m |
First train 3:40 AM |
Last train 9:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 35 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22 (€18)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Luton trainsAvanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Luton from $22 (€18). 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
3h 26m
Cheapest Price
$77 (€63)
Avanti West Coast frequency
15 a day
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
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 57m
Cheapest Price
$137 (€112)
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Luton
Things to do in Luton
Discover the best of Luton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Luton trip today.
- Recommended
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Museum and gardens with local history displays, carriages, and the period Mossman Collection. A strong family-friendly introduction to Luton's heritage.
- Recommended
The Higgins Bedford
Major nearby art gallery and museum often visited from Luton for its fine art, local history, and rotating exhibitions. Worth considering for a wider cultural day trip.
- Must visit
Wardown Park
Luton's best-known park, combining lakeside walks, open lawns, and the museum house. A top everyday local favorite and easy first stop.
- Recommended
Stockwood Park
Large park with open green space, gardens, golf facilities, and access to the discovery centre. Popular for relaxed walks and family visits.
- Recommended
High Town
Creative neighborhood known for independent spirit, murals, studios, and a more local side of Luton that has gained popularity in recent years.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A traditional Bedfordshire pastry with a savory filling at one end and a sweet filling at the other, created as a hearty farmworker meal from the area around Luton.
Lardy Cake
A rich local baked treat made with bread dough, dried fruit, sugar, and lard, long associated with Bedfordshire and nearby counties.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Bedfordshire Plum Cheese
A regional fruit preserve made from plums rather than dairy, traditionally served with cold meats, bread, or cheese boards in Bedfordshire.
Wigmore Fish Restaurant
A long-established local favorite known for classic fish and chips, generous portions, and a relaxed casual atmosphere.
The Brache Beefeater
A reliable casual dining venue serving grilled meats, burgers, and British pub staples in a family-friendly setting.
Off The Wall
A well-known central Luton pub and restaurant with classic British dishes, drinks, and a lively social atmosphere.
Pound sterling
Generally cheaper than central London, but airport-area hotels and some transport can raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. No tip needed for pubs, cafes, or takeaway.
Luton DART
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.80
To the city center
Luton Airport Parkway, Luton -> Luton Station Interchange, Luton
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Bus fares in Luton are capped, and many operators accept contactless card payment on board.
- Use Intalink and operator apps to check live departures, as tickets and fare rules vary by operator.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Luton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Luton 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 Luton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $77 (€63), while the average price is around $110 (€90).
The train from Preston to Luton takes 3h 26m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Preston to Luton is 162 miles (261 km).
The first train from Preston to Luton leaves at 3:40 AM.
The last train from Preston to Luton leaves at 9:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Luton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Luton.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Luton.
The train station in Preston that goes to Luton is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Luton station (LUT).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Luton is by bus, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
The train journey from Preston to Luton offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including views of the rolling hills and countryside of the Midlands, but it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
A day trip from Preston to Luton is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 26m. The distance is 162 miles (261 km), and there are 5 trains per day.
In Luton, visitors can explore The Mall Luton for shopping and dining, enjoy family-friendly activities at Woodside Animal Farm, and shop for fresh produce and crafts at Luton Indoor Market. For outdoor activities, Stockwood Park offers a space for picnics and sports. For entertainment, The Galaxy provides a cinema and bowling alley. Key sights include the Stockwood Discovery Centre with its local history exhibits and gardens, Wardown House Museum and Gallery, Luton Hoo Estate with its gardens and golf course, Whipsnade Zoo, and The Hat Factory Arts Centre, which hosts performances and art exhibitions.
Visitors typically find that spending one to two days in Luton is sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Stockwood Discovery Centre, Wardown House, and the charming local parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Luton.
Since neither Preston nor Luton are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Luton include London, Bedford, St Albans, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Luton among Omio's users.
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 Luton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as Luton Airport and the town center. Taxi scams can occur, so using licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation is advised. Be wary of unofficial currency exchange services offering poor rates or counterfeit notes. Staying vigilant in busy spots and securing 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 Luton
Preston
Luton
The major train station for departures in Preston is Preston. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston for your trip from Preston to Luton.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24 hours, located adjacent to the station with access from Butler Street
Dining
- Rise
- The Olive Tree Brasserie
- Turtle Bay
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Preston - South
- Delta Hotels Preston
- Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for long-distance services
- Hall 2: platforms 4-6 for regional and local services
Public transit options for Preston
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Northern, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express services
The major train station for arrivals in Luton is Luton. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Luton for your journey to Luton from Preston.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 21:45 Saturday 05:45 - 22:00 Sunday 06:45 - 21:45
Parking
- Car Park: Station Road Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: YES
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There are heated waiting areas on platforms 1 to 4
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front and rear entrances
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 00:30 Saturday 06:30 - 00:00 Sunday 07:30 - 00:00
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Coffee shops
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: YES
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There is a heated waiting area on platforms 2 and 3 and also adjacent to platform 4
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front of station and Kimpton Road
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 19:30 Saturday 06:00 - 19:20 Sunday 07:45 - 17:45
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: YES
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station. Step free access to southbound platform 1 and northbound platform 4 (via a separate entrance). No step free access to northbound platform 2 or southbound platform 3. Most services call at platforms 1 and 2. The assistance meeting point is Platform 4 next to ticket office
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 4
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Luton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Luton and Preston
Most popular train connections to Luton
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