Preston to Manchester train with Northern Rail

Sun, Nov 01
+ Add return
Northern Rail
Transpennine Express
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
Transpennine Express
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
Cheapest price on Nov 01
$12
Average ticket price on Nov 01
$18
Fastest journey on Nov 01
31 m
Average journey duration on Nov 01
33 m
Trains on Nov 01
16
Distance
45 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Preston to Manchester will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.

Fast trains

On Sun, Nov 01, we found 16 trains from Preston to Manchester, including 16 direct services.

On Sun, Nov 01 the direct trains cover the 45 km distance in an average of 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 31 m .

On Sun, Nov 01 the slowest trains will take 37 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.

  • Northern RailG89842
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailL89217
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailG89872
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailG89844
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine ExpressW84905
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Preston to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Preston to Manchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 if you book in advance.

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 27 miles (45 km) distance in 31m.

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

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance27 miles (45 km)
  • Average train duration43m
  • Cheapest ticket price$4
  • Trains per day8
  • Direct trains8
  • Fastest train31m
  • First train12:03 AM
  • Last train11:52 PM
  • Cheapest MonthAug
  • Cheapest DaySat
  • High SeasonOct - Dec
  • Low SeasonApr - Jun
  • Busiest DayWed
  • Least Busy DayFri
  • Best time to book14 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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

Frequently asked questions about your Preston to Manchester trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Preston to Manchester.

Train ticket prices from Preston to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4, while the average price is around $17.
The train from Preston to Manchester takes 31m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Preston to Manchester leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Manchester is 27 miles (45 km).
The last train from Preston to Manchester leaves at 11:52 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston to Manchester. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Transpennine Express.

Live departures

Preston to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Preston to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Northern RailG898119:25 AM Preston station (PRE)
0h48
10:13 AM Deansgate (DGT)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG8980110:09 AM Preston station (PRE)
0h37
10:46 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG8981310:24 AM Preston station (PRE)
0h49
11:13 AM Deansgate (DGT)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW8490211:07 AM Preston station (PRE)
0h32
11:39 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG8983711:22 AM Preston station (PRE)
0h50
12:12 PM Deansgate (DGT)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW8487611:57 AM Preston station (PRE)
0h41
12:38 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG8988612:11 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h39
12:50 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW8490512:48 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h32
1:20 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG898881:11 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h39
1:50 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG898441:21 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h50
2:11 PM Deansgate (DGT)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW849091:49 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h31
2:20 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG898722:11 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h41
2:52 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW8493010:15 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h37
10:52 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG8984210:21 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h50
11:11 PM Deansgate (DGT)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressG1579010:48 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h31
11:19 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailL8921710:51 PM Preston station (PRE)
0h49
11:40 PM Deansgate (DGT)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 Manchester trains with Omio?

Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express offer trains services from Preston to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Manchester.
  • 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Manchester.

Train companies

Train companies from Preston to Manchester

Trains from Preston to Manchester with Northern Rail and Transpennine Express. High-speed trains available on this route with Transpennine Express. Regional trains available on this route with Northern Rail. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 Northern Rail Duration
35m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$4
Northern Rail frequency
6 a day
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 Transpennine Express Duration
31m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$10
Transpennine Express frequency
2 a day
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Preston and Manchester

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Preston to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Preston to Manchester.
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.

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.

Plan your visit to Manchester

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Manchester.

The train journey from Preston to Manchester offers pleasant views of the English countryside, with stretches of fields and occasional glimpses of quaint villages, but it is not typically described as particularly scenic compared to routes through more dramatic landscapes.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Preston to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Manchester 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 Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Manchester.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Preston to Manchester

Most Preston to Manchester trains use the Preston to Manchester Airport station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Piccadilly. Use this guide to compare Preston and Manchester 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 Manchester

Which Preston station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Preston to Manchester 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 4950WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 · $11 · 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.

Train stations for Preston to Manchester

Check train stations information for Preston and Manchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Preston that goes to Manchester is Preston, which connects to Manchester Airport.

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We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

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