- Must visit
National Waterfront Museum
Major waterfront museum covering Wales's industrial and maritime story with interactive galleries in a landmark copper-smelting area.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Swansea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€72
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€82
Fastest journey on Sep 19
4 h 24 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
4 h 58 m
Trains on Sep 19
3
Distance
253 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Swansea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Swansea will cost around €82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €72.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 trains from Preston to Swansea, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 253 km distance in an average of 4 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 24 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 5 h 16 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.
6:18 AM5h15Preston11:33 AMSwansea€721One-way0 transfers
8:18 AM4h24Preston12:42 PMSwansea€751One-way0 transfers
8:17 AM5h16Preston1:33 PMSwansea€981One-way0 transfers
- 8:18 AM4h24Preston12:42 PMSwansea€751One-way0 transfers
- 6:18 AM5h15Preston11:33 AMSwansea€721One-way0 transfers
- 8:17 AM5h16Preston1:33 PMSwansea€981One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Preston to Swansea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Swansea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €65 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 51m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €65, while a train costs an average of €106.
Distance: 157 miles (253 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€106 Average price | €65 Average price Cheapest | €59 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 4h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 16m Average total duration 10h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m 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 to Swansea is a bus with an average price of €65.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Swansea:
A bus is €41 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Swansea costing on average €106.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Swansea is by train with an average journey time of 4h 21m.
Other travel options to Swansea take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Swansea including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Swansea 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 9m sooner (4h 21m by train vs 4h 30m by car). Tickets start at around €106 compared to roughly €59 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 Swansea train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Swansea trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:18 AM Preston | 5h15 | 11:33 AM Swansea | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:17 AM Preston | 5h16 | 1:33 PM Swansea | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:18 AM Preston | 4h24 | 12:42 PM Swansea | 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 Swansea 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
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Tue
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Preston to Swansea trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as Caledonian Sleeper or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Preston to Swansea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Swansea.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Swansea.
- 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Swansea.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Swansea.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Swansea.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Swansea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Swansea run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €75 but you can travel from only €39 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:46, the last at 20:01. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (253 km) distance in 4h 0m.
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 €39
Distance 157 miles (253 km) |
Average train duration 4h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price €75 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 0m |
First train 3:46 AM |
Last train 8:01 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €39
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Preston to Swansea trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Preston and Swansea from €39. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
€75
Transport for Wales frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
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
4h 34m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€94
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
4h 29m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€98
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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
Complete guide to Swansea
Things to do in Swansea
Discover the best of Swansea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Swansea trip today.
- Recommended
Swansea Museum
Excellent local museum on Swansea's history, Egyptology, natural history, and ceramics, housed in an elegant city-centre building.
- Recommended
Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
Contemporary art centre presenting changing exhibitions by Welsh and international artists in a bright, modern waterfront space.
- Must visit
Swansea Bay Promenade
Wide sandy bay backed by a long promenade, ideal for walking, cycling, sunsets, and classic views across Swansea Bay.
- Must visit
Mumbles
Historic fishing village turned lively seaside district, loved for the pier, independent shops, sea views, and access to coastal walks.
- Must visit
Pennard Cliffs
Dramatic clifftop path section on Gower with famous views over Three Cliffs Bay, perfect for hikers and photographers.
- Vegetarian
Bara Brith
A rich Welsh fruit loaf packed with dried fruit and tea-soaked flavor, traditionally sliced and served with butter at tea time.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A traditional Welsh seaweed puree, often served with oats and laverbread cakes. It is a signature food of the Swansea Bay coastline.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Welsh cheddar melted with ale and mustard on toast. This comforting pub classic is strongly associated with Welsh home cooking.
Joe's Ice Cream Parlour
Popular casual spot for quality Welsh ice cream and desserts on Mumbles seafront, loved for local flavor and sea views nearby.
The Shed Restaurant
Well-regarded waterfront restaurant known for modern British cooking, seafood, and polished service in a smart contemporary setting.
Swansea Market
Historic market venue famous for traditional Welsh breakfast, laverbread, and cockles in a lively local atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while buses, cafes, and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is polite if service is not included. Round up taxi fares; cafes usually only get small change or none.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Swansea Railway Station -> Swansea Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Swansea. Ask for the cheapest fare or day ticket when boarding.
- Swansea has no tram or metro system; local public transport is mainly by bus and rail. Check live bus times in the First Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Swansea
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Swansea 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 Swansea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Swansea can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €75, while the average price is around €106.
The train from Preston to Swansea takes 4h 0m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Preston to Swansea is 157 miles (253 km).
The first train from Preston to Swansea leaves at 3:46 AM.
The last train from Preston to Swansea leaves at 8:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Swansea.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Swansea.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Swansea.
The train station in Preston that goes to Swansea is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Swansea station (SWA).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Swansea is by bus, with a cost of around €39.
The train journey from Preston to Swansea offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through the rolling landscapes of the north and mid-Wales, with glimpses of the Welsh valleys and coastal areas as you approach Swansea, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Preston to Swansea is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 0m each way. Trains run 4 times per day over a distance of 157 miles (253 km).
For a fulfilling experience in Swansea, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended to explore its main attractions like the Swansea Bay, National Waterfront Museum, and nearby Gower Peninsula.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Swansea.
Since neither Preston nor Swansea 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 Swansea include Cardiff, Neath, Carmarthen, Llanelli, Bridgend.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Swansea 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 Swansea, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Swansea Market and popular nightlife spots. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and only use official transportation services. Be wary of street scams involving unofficial ticket sellers or overly aggressive vendors, and always keep personal belongings secure when visiting busy 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 Swansea
Most Preston to Swansea trains use the Preston to Swansea station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Swansea 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 Swansea
Which Preston station do trains to Swansea leave from?
Trains from Preston to Swansea 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 · €9 · 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 Swansea station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Swansea arrive at Swansea. Swansea is 0 miles (1 km) from Swansea city centre.
SwanseaSwansea station, High Street, Swansea, City & County of Swansea, SA1 1NU+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Swansea from Swansea city centre
Bus49, 30, 54 · 3m · €4 · every ~3 min
Swansea train station facilities and services
Swansea has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Swansea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Swansea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Swansea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Swansea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Swansea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Swansea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access to all platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: on concourse, 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: No.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Swansea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Swansea and Preston
Most popular train connections to Swansea
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