- Must visit
Queen Street Mill Textile Museum
Historic house museum with art, period rooms, and exhibits on Burnley's past. A strong day-trip option from Nelson.
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Compare prices and tickets Preston to Nelson by train
Compare train 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.
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Why should you book Preston to Nelson trains with Omio?
Northern Rail operates all trains services from Preston to Nelson.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Nelson.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Nelson
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Nelson run on average 4 times per day, taking around 1h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:33, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 21 miles (35 km) distance in 1h 4m.
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 (35 km) |
Average train duration 1h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 1h 4m |
First train 4:33 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 3 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
Train companies: Northern Rail from Preston to Nelson trainsNorthern Rail trains will get you between Preston and Nelson. 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 Northern Rail Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$19
Northern Rail frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Nelson
Things to do in Nelson
Discover the best of Nelson — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Nelson trip today.
- Recommended
Pendle Heritage Centre Museum
Local heritage museum in nearby Barrowford Mill. It explains Pendle's industrial past with engines, looms, and hands-on displays.
- Recommended
Gawthorpe Textiles Collection
Compact museum and gallery at Gawthorpe Hall presenting decorative art, textiles, and craft in an important historic house setting.
- Must visit
Pendle Hill
Well-known local hill and viewpoint near Nelson with rewarding panoramas across Pendle and East Lancashire on clear days.
- Recommended
Marsden Park
Popular park with lake, play areas, and open lawns. A favourite green escape for walks, family visits, and relaxed local scenery.
- Recommended
Walverden Reservoir
Scenic reservoir and waterside walking area just outside Nelson. Great for gentle walks, birdlife, and views of the surrounding hills.
- Gluten-free
Black Pudding
Black pudding is a Lancashire staple blood sausage, traditionally served at breakfast. Nelson reflects the county’s strong industrial-era food culture.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is a classic Lancashire pastry filled with potatoes, onion and butter. It became a Friday favourite in the county’s Catholic mill towns.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes. It is one of the region’s best-known comforting traditional dishes.
Fence Gate Lodge
Established country dining venue near Nelson, valued for refined British cooking, afternoon tea and a more polished atmosphere.
Marsden's Sicilian Restaurant
Well-known local Italian restaurant serving pizzas, pasta and classic comfort dishes in a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.
The Big Clocktower
Popular casual restaurant in Nelson known for grilled meats, curries and hearty portions in a lively modern setting.
Pound sterling (£)
More affordable than major UK tourist cities. Hotels, meals, and local transport usually cost less than in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. Tip 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is good. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Transdev Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Nelson -> Nelson Interchange
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Burnley Bus Company buses, and capped adult single fares may apply.
- Nelson Interchange is the main hub for local buses and trains, making transfers easiest there.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Nelson
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Nelson 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 Nelson, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Nelson can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19, while the average price is around $19.
The train from Preston to Nelson takes 1h 4m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Preston to Nelson is 21 miles (35 km).
The first train from Preston to Nelson leaves at 4:33 AM.
The last train from Preston to Nelson leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Nelson.
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston to Nelson. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Northern Rail.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Preston to Nelson.
The train station in Preston that goes to Nelson is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Nelson station (NEL).
Yes, the train journey from Preston to Nelson offers scenic views of the picturesque Lancashire countryside, featuring rolling hills and charming rural landscapes.
Yes, a day trip from Preston to Nelson is feasible. The journey takes 1h 4m, covering a distance of 21 miles (35 km). There are 4 trains available per day.
Three to four days in Nelson is ideal for exploring the city's vibrant arts scene, local markets, and nearby natural attractions like Abel Tasman National Park and the Nelson Lakes.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Nelson.
Since neither Preston nor Nelson 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 Nelson include Blackburn, Accrington, Bolton, Blackpool, Lytham St Annes.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Nelson 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 Nelson, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and markets. Common scams include overpriced taxi fares and unofficial tour operators charging excessive fees. It's advisable to use licensed transportation and verify prices in advance to avoid being overcharged. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of weather-related hazards when exploring outdoor attractions.
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 Nelson
Most Preston to Nelson trains use the Preston to Nelson station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Nelson 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 Nelson
Which Preston station do trains to Nelson leave from?
Trains from Preston to Nelson 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 · $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.
Which Nelson station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Nelson arrive at Nelson. Nelson is 0 miles (1 km) from Nelson city centre.
NelsonNelson station, Hibson Road, Nelson, Lancashire, BB9 9SF+44 8002006060
City-centre transport
Getting to Nelson from Nelson city centre
Onward travel informationBusline 0871 200 2233
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off at bus stand 10 in the interchange. (adjacent to the station)
Nelson train station facilities and services
Nelson has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Nelson.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Nelson: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Nelson: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nelson: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Level access available. Lift to platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: The highest operating part of the telephone is 1140 mm above floor level, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Nelson
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Nelson and Preston
Most popular train connections to Nelson
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