- Must visit
National Justice Museum
Interactive justice museum in a former courthouse and jail, bringing crime, punishment, and courtroom history to life in atmospheric historic buildings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Nottingham
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 23
Cheapest price on Sep 23
$64
Average ticket price on Sep 23
$90
Fastest journey on Sep 23
2 h 42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 23
2 h 55 m
Trains on Sep 23
4
Distance
138 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Nottingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Nottingham will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Preston to Nottingham without transferring at least once.
W84878+
C043446:47 AM2h43Preston station (PRE)9:30 AMNottingham station (NOT)$641One-way1 transfer- W84893+C043477:48 AM2h42Preston station (PRE)10:30 AMNottingham station (NOT)$711One-way1 transfer
W34207+C213037:18 AM2h59Preston station (PRE)10:17 AMNottingham station (NOT)$1121One-way1 transfer- W34004_W34251+C213046:00 AM3h17Preston station (PRE)9:17 AMNottingham station (NOT)$1121One-way1 transfer
- W84893+C043477:48 AM2h42Preston station (PRE)10:30 AMNottingham station (NOT)$711One-way1 transfer
- W84878+C043446:47 AM2h43Preston station (PRE)9:30 AMNottingham station (NOT)$641One-way1 transfer
- W34207+C213037:18 AM2h59Preston station (PRE)10:17 AMNottingham station (NOT)$1121One-way1 transfer
- W34004_W34251+C213046:00 AM3h17Preston station (PRE)9:17 AMNottingham station (NOT)$1121One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Preston to Nottingham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Nottingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $43 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 1m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, while a train costs an average of $67.
Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$67 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $39 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 1m Average total duration Fastest 2h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Nottingham is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Nottingham:
A bus is $24 (€20) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Nottingham costing on average $67 (€55).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Nottingham is by train with an average journey time of 2h 31m.
Other travel options to Nottingham take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Nottingham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Nottingham 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 $67 (€55) compared to roughly $39 (€32) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-27.66 (€-22.67). The journey takes 2h 31m versus 2h 26m 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.
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 to Nottingham train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Nottingham trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W34004_W34251+C21304 | 6:00 AM Preston station (PRE) | 3h17 | 9:17 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 1 transfer | |
| W84878+C04344 | 6:47 AM Preston station (PRE) | 2h43 | 9:30 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 1 transfer | |
| W34207+C21303 | 7:18 AM Preston station (PRE) | 2h59 | 10:17 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 1 transfer | |
| W84893+C04347 | 7:48 AM Preston station (PRE) | 2h42 | 10:30 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Nottingham by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
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Sep 27
Sep 27
Mon
Sep 28
Sep 28
Tue
Sep 29
Sep 29
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Nottingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Nottingham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $36 (€30) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 21:47. The fastest train covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 2h 18m.
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 $36 (€30)
Distance 85 miles (138 km) |
Average train duration 2h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 18m |
First train 4:55 AM |
Last train 9:47 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $36 (€30)
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from Preston to Nottingham trainsEast Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Preston and Nottingham from $18 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$32 (€26)
East Midlands Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$111 (€91)
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 30m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$102 (€84)
Avanti West Coast frequency
7 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
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
$84 (€69)
TransPennine Express frequency
8 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Trains Limited Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Northern Trains Limited Price
$88 (€72)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Nottingham
Things to do in Nottingham
Discover the best of Nottingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Nottingham trip today.
- Must visit
Nottingham Contemporary
Contemporary art gallery in a converted church, known for changing exhibitions, talks, and a strong role in Nottingham's modern visual culture.
- Recommended
University of Nottingham Museum at Lakeside Arts
University museum with world-class archaeology, natural history, and art collections. A scholarly but accessible stop with strong family appeal.
- Must visit
Old Market Square
Grand central square framed by civic buildings, fountains, and events. It is the natural starting point for exploring Nottingham's shopping streets and history.
- Must visit
Lace Market
Historic quarter of red-brick warehouses, showrooms, and hidden courtyards. A must for architecture, independent venues, and understanding the lace trade.
- Must visit
Wollaton Park
Large historic deer park around Wollaton Hall with lakes, woodland walks, and broad lawns. Ideal for nature, photography, and skyline views.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Chip Cob
A soft white cob filled with chips, often with salt, vinegar, and sauce. It is a classic Midlands takeaway snack strongly associated with local eating habits.
Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
A large pork pie linked to nearby Melton Mowbray in the East Midlands, prized for its hand-raised crust and seasoned uncured pork filling.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton Cheese
Blue Stilton from nearby Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands is a famous crumbly blue cheese with a rich, salty taste and protected heritage status.
Restaurant Sat Bains
Refined modern tasting menus in elegant surroundings. One of Nottingham’s best-known fine dining destinations for seasonal British cooking.
Kayal
Popular specialist venue for authentic Indian street food and dosas. Casual, lively, and widely praised by locals and visitors.
Hart's Kitchen
Well-regarded modern British restaurant in the Lace Market, known for polished cooking, cocktails, and a stylish yet relaxed setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK city: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, while buses, coffee, and casual meals are fairly priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical if service is good and not already added. Round up taxi fares; cafes usually do not require tips.
NETGO!
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.20
- Day pass
- £5.30
To the city center
Nottingham Station -> Old Market Square, Nottingham
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless card payment works on Nottingham trams and on many local buses, but bus fares and accepted payment methods vary by operator.
- Use the NETGO! app or ticket machines to buy tram tickets before boarding. Nottingham Station is a short walk or tram ride from Old Market Square.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Nottingham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Nottingham 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 Nottingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Nottingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44 (€36), while the average price is around $67 (€55).
The train from Preston to Nottingham takes 2h 18m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Preston to Nottingham is 85 miles (138 km).
The first train from Preston to Nottingham leaves at 4:55 AM.
The last train from Preston to Nottingham leaves at 9:47 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Preston to Nottingham.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Nottingham.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Preston to Nottingham.
The train station in Preston that goes to Nottingham is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Nottingham station (NOT).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Nottingham is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€30).
The train journey from Preston to Nottingham passes through a mix of urban and rural landscapes, offering views of the Pennines and picturesque countryside, but it is not typically highlighted as a particularly scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Nottingham.
Popular day trips by train from Nottingham include Leicester, Derby, Sheffield, Birmingham, Loughborough.
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 Nottingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and public transport. Common scams include taxi overcharging and unofficial ticket sellers. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and purchase transport tickets only from official vendors to avoid fraud. Staying aware of surroundings 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 Nottingham
Most Preston to Nottingham trains use the Preston to Nottingham station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Nottingham 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 Nottingham
Which Preston station do trains to Nottingham leave from?
Trains from Preston to Nottingham 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 Nottingham station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Nottingham arrive at Nottingham. Nottingham is 0 miles (1 km) from Nottingham city centre.
NottinghamNottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to Nottingham from Nottingham city centre
Bus9B, 8, 11, 6, 10, 9, 11C, 10C, 10X, 7, 5, 5A, 11B, 12, 12C, 12E, 10A · 3m · every ~58 min
48, 1, 3, 48X, 1A, 48A, 3A, N4, 1B, 1E · 4m · every ~24 min
Kc · 5m · $5 · every ~12 min
20 · 10m
TramTram · 4m · $5 · every ~58 min
Nottingham train station facilities and services
Nottingham has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Nottingham.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Nottingham.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Nottingham. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, 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 Nottingham: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Nottingham: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nottingham: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a category A access station. There are lifts available to all platforms and there is level and ramp access to the concourse and ticket office/machines. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: none, Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on useful information poster at station, 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.
More options for your journey from Preston to Nottingham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Nottingham and Preston
Most popular train connections to Nottingham
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