- Must visit
The Whitworth
Major university art gallery in Manchester with modern and historic collections, noted for strong exhibitions and a park-side setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport
Showing times and prices for Jul 02
Cheapest price
$7
Average price
$12
Fastest journey
1 h 3 m
Average duration
1 h 7 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
52 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $7.
Fast trains
Of the 8 trains that leave Preston station (PRE) for Manchester Airport on Thu, Jul 02, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 02 the direct trains cover the 52 km distance in an average of 1 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 3 m .
On Thu, Jul 02 the slowest trains will take 1 h 9 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.
7:51 AM1h09Preston station (PRE)9:00 AMManchester Airport$71One-way0 transfers- 5:25 AM1h06Preston station (PRE)6:31 AMManchester Airport$91One-way0 transfers
- 4:25 AM1h06Preston station (PRE)5:31 AMManchester Airport$101One-way0 transfers
- 8:21 AM1h15Preston station (PRE)9:36 AMManchester Airport$121One-way0 transfers
- 8:50 PM1h11Preston station (PRE)10:01 PMManchester Airport$141One-way0 transfers
- 5:12 AM1h03Preston station (PRE)6:15 AMManchester Airport$161One-way0 transfers
- 5:25 AM1h06Preston station (PRE)6:31 AMManchester Airport$91One-way0 transfers
- 4:25 AM1h06Preston station (PRE)5:31 AMManchester Airport$101One-way0 transfers
- 8:51 AM1h09Preston station (PRE)10:00 AMManchester Airport$151One-way0 transfers
- 7:51 AM1h09Preston station (PRE)9:00 AMManchester Airport$71One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $6, and a bus costs an average of $13.
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$12 Average price Cheapest | $17 Average price | $15 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 32m Average total duration Fastest 1h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 6m Average total duration 1h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport is a train with an average price of $12 (€10).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport costing on average $17 (€14).
The fastest way to travel from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport is by train with an average journey time of 1h 2m.
Other travel options to Manchester Airport take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston station (PRE) and Manchester Airport including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:25 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1h06 | 5:31 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:12 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1h03 | 6:15 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:25 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1h06 | 6:31 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:51 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1h09 | 9:00 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:21 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1h15 | 9:36 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:51 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1h09 | 10:00 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:21 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1h15 | 10:36 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Thu
Jul 02
Jul 02
Fri
Jul 03
Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Jul 04
Sun
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Jul 05
Mon
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Tue
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Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08
Jul 08
Why should you book Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
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, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
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, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $6 (€5) if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 32 miles (52 km) distance in 1h 3m.
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 32 miles (52 km) |
Average train duration 1h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $6 (€5) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 1h 3m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Train companies: Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Preston station (PRE) and Manchester Airport from $6 (€5). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
$6 (€5)
Northern Rail frequency
7 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 Duration
1h 25m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€25)
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
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
51m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€30)
TransPennine Express frequency
12 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 2m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
38 a day
Complete guide to Manchester Airport
Things to do in Manchester Airport
Discover the best of Manchester Airport — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester Airport trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
Large museum with natural history, archaeology and cultural collections. One of the city’s best-known museums and especially strong for families.
- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Flagship Manchester museum covering industry, engineering, textiles and transport in historic railway buildings.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Canalside heritage district with warehouses, bridges and waterside paths. One of the best areas for walking and industrial-era views.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Creative neighborhood known for street art, independent shops and lively urban character, very popular with younger visitors.
- Must visit
Salford Quays
Revitalized waterfront district with broad promenades, contemporary landmarks and excellent views around the docks.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Tart
A classic Greater Manchester dessert with shortcrust pastry, raspberry jam, custard, coconut, and a cherry. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional sweets.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A famous pastry from Greater Manchester, filled with currants, butter, and sugar in flaky pastry. It is a traditional tea-time treat from the region.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Black Peas
A traditional North West snack made from slow-cooked black badger peas, often seasoned with vinegar. It has long been associated with local fairs and working-class food culture.
San Carlo Fiorentina
An established upscale Italian restaurant near the airport in Hale, known for polished service, steaks, seafood, and a refined atmosphere.
The Romper
A long-established pub near Manchester Airport, valued for traditional British food, cask ales, and a comfortable local atmosphere.
The Grain Loft
A popular airside pub and dining spot in Manchester Airport Terminal 1, known for British classics, beers, and a relaxed pre-flight atmosphere.
Pound sterling
Airport prices are usually above city averages, but the UK is manageable for most travelers using budget food options and public transport.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for fast food or a sandwich.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-25 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 40+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only in sit-down restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. No tip needed for counter service. Round up taxi fares if helpful.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Manchester Airport -> Manchester Piccadilly
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Bee Network bus fares are capped, and adult single bus fares in Greater Manchester are GBP 2.00.
- On most Bee Network buses you can pay by contactless card, but trams and rail tickets are usually bought before boarding or via official apps.
FAQs: Trains from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport 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 Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $6 (€5), while the average price is around $12 (€10).
The train from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport takes 1h 3m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport leaves at 4:25 AM.
The distance by train from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport is 32 miles (52 km).
The last train from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport leaves at 11:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
The cheapest way to get from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport is by train, with a cost of around $6 (€5).
The train journey from Preston to Manchester Airport primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, offering limited scenic views, with occasional glimpses of the countryside.
A day trip from Preston to Manchester Airport is feasible with a travel time of 1h 3m each way and a distance of 32 miles (52 km). Trains run 9 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport.
Since neither Preston station (PRE) nor Manchester Airport 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 Manchester Airport include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Preston.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport 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.
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 station (PRE) to Manchester Airport
Most Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport trains use the Preston to Manchester Airport station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston station (PRE) and Manchester Airport 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
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 · $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.
Most popular train connections from Preston station (PRE)
More options for your journey from Preston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Manchester Airport and Preston station (PRE)
Most popular train connections to Manchester Airport
HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to Manchester AirportPreston station (PRE) to Manchester Airport train
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