- Must visit
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
The university’s flagship museum presents natural history collections in a spectacular neo-Gothic hall, ideal for science and architecture lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Oxford
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$119
Average price
$125
Fastest journey
3 h 18 m
Average duration
3 h 41 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
245 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Oxford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Oxford will cost around $125 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $119.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Preston for Oxford on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 245 km distance in an average of 3 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 18 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 4 h 28 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.
10:00 AM4h28Preston2:28 PMOxford$1191One-way0 transfers- 10:18 AM3h18Preston1:36 PMOxford$1281One-way0 transfers
- 11:18 AM3h18Preston2:36 PMOxford$1291One-way0 transfers
- 11:18 AM3h18Preston2:36 PMOxford$1291One-way0 transfers
- 10:18 AM3h18Preston1:36 PMOxford$1281One-way0 transfers
- 10:00 AM4h28Preston2:28 PMOxford$1191One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston to Oxford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Oxford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 15m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a train costs an average of $35.
Distance: 152 miles (245 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$98 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration 5h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg 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 Oxford is a bus with an average price of $39.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Oxford:
A bus is $58 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Oxford costing on average $98.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Oxford is by train with an average journey time of 3h 15m.
Other travel options to Oxford take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Oxford including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Oxford 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 6m sooner (3h 15m by train vs 3h 21m by car). Tickets start at around $98 compared to roughly $81 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 Oxford train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Oxford trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:18 PM Preston | 3h19 | 6:37 PM Oxford | 1 transfer | |
| 4:18 PM Preston | 3h21 | 7:39 PM Oxford | 1 transfer | |
| 5:18 PM Preston | 3h55 | 9:13 PM Oxford | 1 transfer | |
| 6:18 PM Preston | 3h55 | 10:13 PM Oxford | 1 transfer | |
| 7:18 PM Preston | 3h55 | 11:13 PM Oxford | 1 transfer | |
| 9:18 PM Preston | 9h56 | 7:14 AM Oxford | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 10:00 AM Preston | 4h28 | 2:28 PM Oxford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:18 AM Preston | 3h18 | 1:36 PM Oxford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:18 AM Preston | 3h18 | 2:36 PM Oxford | 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 Oxford 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
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Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
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Aug 08
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Aug 11
Aug 11
Why should you book Preston to Oxford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Oxford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Oxford.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Oxford.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Oxford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Oxford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Oxford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Oxford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Oxford run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 but you can travel from only $25 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:20, the last at 21:09. The fastest train covers the 152 miles (245 km) distance in 3h 15m.
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 $25
Distance 152 miles (245 km) |
Average train duration 3h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 15m |
First train 5:20 AM |
Last train 9:09 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $25
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Oxford trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Oxford from $25. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$35
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 Duration
3h 17m
Cheapest Price
$56
Avanti West Coast frequency
11 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 52m
Cheapest Price
$108
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 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 Oxford
Things to do in Oxford
Discover the best of Oxford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oxford trip today.
- Must visit
Pitt Rivers Museum
World-famous museum of archaeology and anthropology with remarkable collections from ancient Egypt to Pacific cultures.
- Must visit
Ashmolean Museum
Britain’s oldest public museum displays global art and archaeology, including classical sculpture, paintings, and Egyptian antiquities.
- Must visit
High Street
Oxford’s historic main street is lined with colleges, churches, and grand facades, making it essential for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Radcliffe Square
A central square framed by the Bodleian, Radcliffe Camera, and university buildings, offering one of Oxford’s defining views.
- Must visit
Christ Church Meadow
A peaceful riverside path popular for walking and punting views, giving a greener, more local side of Oxford.
Oxfordshire Sausage
A hearty Oxfordshire sausage made with pork and veal, often seasoned with lemon and herbs. It is a long-standing county specialty linked to local butchers.
Oxford Sandy and Black Pie
A rustic Oxfordshire pie of seasoned pork, bacon, apples and cider. It reflects the county's farming traditions and classic English pub cooking.
- Vegetarian
Banbury Cake
A rich fruit cake from nearby Banbury, filled with currants, raisins and spice. It is one of Oxfordshire's best-known historic baked treats.
Restaurant 56
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for seasonal British tasting menus and polished service in a refined city-centre setting.
The Perch
Historic riverside pub with a strong reputation for cask ales and classic British dishes in a traditional and atmospheric setting.
The Covered Market Tavern
Historic covered market institution serving Oxford sausages, breakfasts and traditional British comfort food in a casual setting.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Oxford is pricier than many UK cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Transit is manageable, but central accommodation and tourist-area meals raise daily budgets.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add 10-12.5% service; if not, tip about 10% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional, usually small change.
Oxford Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.30
To the city center
Oxford Railway Station -> Oxford City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Oxford Bus services, and capped day fares can make multiple trips cheaper.
- Tap the same contactless card each time to benefit from fare capping where available.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Oxford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Oxford 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 Oxford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Oxford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35, while the average price is around $98.
The train from Preston to Oxford takes 3h 15m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Preston to Oxford is 152 miles (245 km).
The first train from Preston to Oxford leaves at 5:20 AM.
The last train from Preston to Oxford leaves at 9:09 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Oxford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Oxford.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Oxford.
The train station in Preston that goes to Oxford is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Oxford station (OXF).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Oxford is by bus, with a cost of around $25.
The train journey from Preston to Oxford offers a mix of urban and countryside scenery, with views of the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and picturesque English villages, especially as you travel further south.
A day trip from Preston to Oxford may not be feasible as the journey takes 3h 15m one way. However, there are 4 trains per day covering a distance of 152 miles (245 km).
In Oxford, you can visit the University of Oxford to explore its historic colleges and libraries, tour the Ashmolean Museum to discover an extensive art and archaeology collection, and walk through the Oxford Botanic Garden to enjoy diverse plant collections. Don't miss exploring the Covered Market with its local shops and eateries, and climb the Carfax Tower for panoramic views of the city. Some of the best sights include the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and Christ Church College.
For a fulfilling experience in Oxford, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient to explore its historic colleges, museums, and picturesque city center.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Oxford.
Since neither Preston nor Oxford 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 Oxford include London, Reading, Banbury, Bath, Leamington Spa.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Oxford 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 Oxford, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed cabs or reputable ride-hailing apps. Be wary of unofficial street vendors offering overpriced or counterfeit tickets for attractions. Additionally, travelers should avoid unlicensed bike rentals and always secure personal belongings when exploring the city.
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 Oxford
Most Preston to Oxford trains use the Preston to Oxford station pair, with some services arriving at Oxford Parkway. Use this guide to compare Preston and Oxford 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 Oxford
Which Preston station do trains to Oxford leave from?
Trains from Preston to Oxford 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 Oxford station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Oxford most often arrive at Oxford. Some services arrive at Oxford Parkway, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Oxford arrival station.
OxfordOxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Oxford from Oxford city centre
BusS1, Ns1 · 6m · $1 · every ~12 min
5, 3, 3A, 400, N3, N400 · 9m · $2 · every ~66 min
X1, X15, 600 · 9m · $2 · every ~14 min
X20, 120 · 10m · every ~10 min
Oxford train station facilities and services
Oxford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Oxford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford. ATMs are available at Oxford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oxford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oxford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oxford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and an overbridge to access platform 4. Safety warning - Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please request staff assistance or call our free help line for, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Situated by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Oxford ParkwayOxford Parkway station, Water Eaton Park & Ride, Banbury Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 8HA
City-centre transport
Getting to Oxford Parkway from Oxford city centre
Oxford Parkway is 5 km from Oxford city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainOxford - London Marylebone, Oxford - High Wycombe, Oxford - Bicester Village, Oxford - Gerrards Cross · 8m · $2 · every ~4 min
BusS4, 2, 2A, N2, S5, Ns5, S7, X4, 800 · 20m · $5 · every ~51 min
700 · 22m · $5 · every ~9 min
Oxford Parkway train station facilities and services
Oxford Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Oxford Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford Parkway. ATMs are available at Oxford Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oxford Parkway. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03456 005 165, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oxford Parkway: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oxford Parkway: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to platforms via lifts, Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165, 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: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Oxford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Oxford and Preston
Most popular train connections to Oxford
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