- Must visit
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter
Major film attraction at Warner Bros. Studios with sets, props, and behind-the-scenes exhibits from the Harry Potter films.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Watford
Showing times and prices for Jul 30
Cheapest price
$105
Average price
$105
Fastest journey
3 h 15 m
Average duration
3 h 15 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
282 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Watford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Watford will cost around $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $105.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Preston for Watford on Thu, Jul 30, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 30 the direct trains cover the 282 km distance in an average of 3 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 15 m .
On Thu, Jul 30 the slowest trains will take 3 h 15 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.
11:18 AM3h15Preston2:33 PMWatford$1051One-way0 transfers
- 11:18 AM3h15Preston2:33 PMWatford$1051One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Preston to Watford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Watford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $92. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $92, and a flight costs an average of $315.
Distance: 175 miles (282 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$100 Average price Cheapest | $336 Average price | $61 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 29m Average total duration 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 8m Average total duration Fastest 1h 8m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Watford is a train with an average price of $100 (€100).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Watford:
A train is $236 (€236) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Preston to Watford costing on average $336 (€336).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Watford is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 8m.
Other travel options to Watford take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Watford including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Watford 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 42m sooner (2h 59m by train vs 3h 41m by car). Tickets start at around $100 (€100) compared to roughly $61 (€61) 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.
Direct services run with Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper.
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.
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Watford by train or flight
Compare train and flight 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 Watford trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Watford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Watford.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Watford.
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Watford.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Watford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Watford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Watford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Watford run on average 18 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $92 (€92) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:09, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 175 miles (282 km) distance in 2h 44m.
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 175 miles (282 km) |
Average train duration 2h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $92 (€92) |
Trains per day 18 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 44m |
First train 4:09 AM |
Last train 9:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Watford trainsAvanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Watford from $92 (€92). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 44m
Cheapest Price
$92 (€92)
Avanti West Coast frequency
24 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 24m
Cheapest Price
$75 (€75)
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
2 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 Watford
Things to do in Watford
Discover the best of Watford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Watford trip today.
- Recommended
Watford Museum
Compact local museum covering Watford's people, industry, art, and football heritage in a historic former brewery setting.
- Recommended
Little Cassiobury House
Elegant Jacobean house with period rooms, exhibitions, and gardens, offering a strong sense of Hertfordshire country-house history.
- Must visit
Cassiobury Park
Watford's flagship park with broad lawns, woodland, canal-side walks, playgrounds, and sports facilities. A top everyday local favorite.
- Recommended
The Parade
Pedestrianized retail heart of central Watford, useful for shopping, people-watching, and feeling the town's busy modern atmosphere.
- Recommended
High Street
Historic high street with independent shops, old buildings, pubs, and the parish church, preserving much of Watford's older character.
Steak And Ale Pie
A hearty pub pie of beef and ale under pastry. Common in Hertfordshire pubs and a staple comfort dish locals still order regularly.
Bangers And Mash
Sausages served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy. A classic everyday British pub meal widely eaten in Watford and across England.
Fish And Chips
Beer-battered fish with chips, usually cod or haddock. A long-standing British takeaway and pub favourite popular with Watford locals.
The Grove
Well-regarded modern British pub and dining room in a historic setting, known for seasonal menus, Sunday roasts and a polished atmosphere.
The Florist Watford
Popular contemporary restaurant for steaks, grills and cocktails with stylish interiors and a strong reputation for polished service.
ASK Italian Watford
Reliable casual chain known for fresh pasta, pizza and Italian comfort food in a lively, family-friendly setting near the town centre.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for UK trips: hotels and rail can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add 10-12.5% service; if not, round up or tip 10%. Taxis: round up. Cafes and pubs: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
TfL Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £1.75
- Day pass
- £14.90
To the city center
Watford Junction -> Watford High Street, Watford
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless and Oyster are accepted on London Overground and Tube services in Watford. Bus fares in London are charged by touch-in only.
- For local buses around Watford, check Intalink fares before travel because prices vary by operator and route. Contactless payment is commonly accepted on buses.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Watford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Watford 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 Watford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Watford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $92 (€92), while the average price is around $100 (€100).
The train from Preston to Watford takes 2h 44m and runs 18 per day.
The first train from Preston to Watford leaves at 4:09 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Watford is 175 miles (282 km).
The last train from Preston to Watford leaves at 9:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Watford.
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston to Watford. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Watford.
The train station in Preston that goes to Watford is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Watford Junction (WFJ).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Watford is by train, with a cost of around $92 (€92).
The train journey from Preston to Watford offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque Lancashire countryside and the scenic landscapes of the Midlands, though much of the route also includes suburban and industrial areas.
A day trip from Preston to Watford is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 44m. However, there are 16 trains available per day for this route covering a distance of 175 miles (282 km).
In Watford, you can enjoy performances at the historic Watford Palace Theatre and community events at the Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre. For shopping and entertainment, visit Intu Watford. Experience fun golfing at Topgolf Watford or explore nature at Rickmansworth Aquadrome. Discover local history at Watford Museum and the enchanting world of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Relax at Cassiobury Park, stroll through the gardens at Cheslyn House, or indulge at the luxurious Grove hotel and estate.
To explore Watford's main attractions, including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and Cassiobury Park, a stay of 1 to 2 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Watford.
Since neither Preston nor Watford 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 Watford include London, Kings Langley, Birmingham, Hemel Hempstead, Coventry.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Watford 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 Watford, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the town center and around public transport hubs. Common scams include bogus ticket sellers and unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to book transportation through trusted providers. Staying alert in busy spots and using official channels for tickets and rides 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 Watford
Most Preston to Watford trains use the Preston to Watford Junction station pair, with some services arriving at Bushey. Use this guide to compare Preston and Watford 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 Watford
Which Preston station do trains to Watford leave from?
Trains from Preston to Watford 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 Watford station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Watford most often arrive at Watford Junction. Some services arrive at Bushey, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Watford arrival station.
Watford JunctionWatford Junction station, Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford Junction from Watford city centre
TrainLondon Euston - Watford Junction, Kilburn High Road - Watford Junction, Willesden Junction Low Level - Watford Junction · 5m · $1 · every ~9 min
BusW20 · 5m · $2 · every ~1 min
635 · 7m · $4 · every ~2 min
322 · 20m · $2 · every ~6 min
Watford Junction train station facilities and services
Watford Junction has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford Junction.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Watford Junction.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford Junction. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford Junction: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford Junction: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford Junction: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible on platform 6, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
BusheyBushey station, Pinner Road, Watford, Greater London, WD19 4EA+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Bushey from Watford city centre
Bushey is 1 km from Watford city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainWatford Junction - London Euston, Watford Junction - Willesden Junction Low Level, Watford Junction - Kilburn High Road · 2m · $1 · every ~9 min
Bus306, 832 · 9m · $4 · every ~4 min
602 · 11m · $2 · every ~5 min
885 · 14m
Bushey train station facilities and services
Bushey has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bushey.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bushey.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bushey. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bushey: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bushey: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bushey: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Watford High StreetWatford High Street station, 182 Watford High Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2NW+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford High Street from Watford city centre
Bus321 · 3m · $4 · every ~10 min
306 · 6m · every ~4 min
Watford High Street train station facilities and services
Watford High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford High Street.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Watford High Street. ATMs are available at Watford High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford High Street: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford High Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford High Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only, Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, 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 Watford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Watford and Preston
Most popular train connections to Watford
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