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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Watford
Showing times and prices for Dec 12
Cheapest price
$94
Average price
$119
Fastest journey
2 h 44 m
Average duration
3 h 11 m
Trains per day
3
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 $119 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $94.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Preston for Watford on Fri, Dec 12, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Dec 12 the direct trains cover the 282 km distance in an average of 3 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 44 m .
On Fri, Dec 12 the slowest trains will take 3 h 30 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.
12:19PM2h44
Preston03:03PMWatford
$941One-way
0 transfers
04:18PM3h30
Preston07:48PMWatford
$1301One-way
0 transfers
10:18AM3h19
Preston01:37PMWatford
$1321One-way
0 transfers
12:19PM2h44
Preston03:03PMWatford
$941One-way
0 transfers
10:18AM3h19
Preston01:37PMWatford
$1321One-way
0 transfers
04:18PM3h30
Preston07:48PMWatford
$1301One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, 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 bus with prices starting from €38. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €38, and a flight costs an average of €62.
Distance: 175 miles (282 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€81 Average price | €38 Average price Cheapest | €163 Average price |
3h 29m Average total duration 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 45m Average total duration 7h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 2m Average total duration Fastest 1h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Preston to Watford train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Watford trains for today, Thursday, December 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:13 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:19 PM Preston | 2h44 | 3:03 PM Watford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, December 12 | |||||
| 10:18 AM Preston | 3h19 | 1:37 PM Watford | 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 Watford by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
Fri
Dec 12
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Dec 13
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Dec 14
Dec 14
Mon
Dec 15
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Dec 18
Dec 18
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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Watford.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Avanti West Coast tickets can be bought on Avanti West Coast's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Caledonian Sleeper to help you choose the right option for your journey from Preston to Watford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus 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 16 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 (€50) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.
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 42m.
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 $47 (€38)
Distance 175 miles (282 km) |
Average train duration 2h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 (€50) |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 04:09 |
Last train 21:45 |
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 $47 (€38)
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 $47 (€38). 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 42m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€50)
Avanti West Coast frequency
15 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 23m
Cheapest Price
$113 (€91)
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
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.
A day trip from Preston to Watford is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 42m. However, there are 16 trains available per day for this route covering a distance of 175 miles (282 km).
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.
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.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Watford.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Watford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $62 (€50), while the average price is around $101 (€81).
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Watford.
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Watford is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston to Watford. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper.
The train from Preston to Watford takes 2h 42m and runs 16 per day.
The train station in Preston that goes to Watford is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Watford Junction (WFJ).
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.
The distance by train from Preston to Watford is 175 miles (282 km).
The first train from Preston to Watford leaves at 4:09 AM.
The last train from Preston to Watford leaves at 9:45 PM.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Watford.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Preston to Watford
Preston
Watford
The major train station for departures in Preston is Preston. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston for your trip from Preston to Watford.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24 hours, located adjacent to the station with access from Butler Street.
Dining
- Rise
- The Olive Tree Brasserie
- Turtle Bay
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Preston - South
- Delta Hotels Preston
- Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for long-distance services
- Hall 2: platforms 4-6 for regional and local services
Public transit options for Preston
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Northern, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express services
The major train station for arrivals in Watford is Bushey. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bushey for your journey to Watford from Preston.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:45 - 21:00 Saturday 08:15 - 15:15 Sunday 09:15 - 16:30
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: Bushey Station
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: behind the Ticket Office
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Bushey
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:00 Saturday 10:30 - 12:30
Distance to city center
3 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Local shops nearby
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Accessibility category B2. Long sloping ramp from station entrance to booking hall. Level access from booking hall to platforms.
- Accessible public telephones: Outside booking office. Sloped passage from entrance to booking hall.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Carpenders Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop C in Prestwick Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Prestwick Road for southbound services to Euston
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:30 - 10:00 Saturday 09:30 - 12:15
Shopping
- Type of shops available: High Street shops located nearby
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Watford High Street
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Lower High Street for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Lower High Street for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
- Metro: Watford London Underground station (Metropolitan line) is approximately 34 minutes' walk away
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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