- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 14
Cheapest price
$162
Average price
$163
Fastest journey
4 h 36 m
Average duration
4 h 36 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
331 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Preston will cost around $163 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $162.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Southampton for Preston on Fri, Aug 14, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Aug 14 the direct trains cover the 331 km distance in an average of 4 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 36 m .
On Fri, Aug 14 the slowest trains will take 4 h 36 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.
6:15 AM4h36Southampton10:51 AMPreston$1621One-way0 transfers- 4:15 AM4h36Southampton8:51 AMPreston$1631One-way0 transfers
- 6:15 AM4h36Southampton10:51 AMPreston$1621One-way0 transfers
- 4:15 AM4h36Southampton8:51 AMPreston$1631One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Southampton to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 1m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a flight costs an average of $109.
Distance: 205 miles (331 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$150 Average price | $61 Average price Cheapest | $168 Average price | $88 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 49m Average total duration 4h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 20m Average total duration 8h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 1m Average total duration Fastest 1h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 Southampton to Preston is a bus with an average price of $61 (€50).
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Preston:
A bus is $89 (€73) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Preston costing on average $150 (€122).
A bus is $107 (€87) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Southampton to Preston costing on average $168 (€137).
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Preston is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 1m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 19m.
Bus takes on average 8h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Southampton and Preston including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Preston 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 26m sooner (4h 19m by train vs 4h 45m by car). Tickets start at around $150 (€122) compared to roughly $88 (€72) 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
Southampton to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Preston trains for today, Thursday, August 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:15 AM Southampton | 4h35 | 11:50 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:15 AM Southampton | 4h35 | 12:50 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, August 14 | |||||
| 4:15 AM Southampton | 4h36 | 8:51 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Preston 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.
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Why should you book Southampton to Preston trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Cross Country offer trains services from Southampton to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Preston.
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 Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Preston.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Preston.
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 Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $97 (€79) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:49, the last at 21:18. The fastest train covers the 205 miles (331 km) distance in 4h 35m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $36 (€29)
Distance 205 miles (331 km) |
Average train duration 4h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $97 (€79) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 35m |
First train 4:49 AM |
Last train 9:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 2 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $36 (€29)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Southampton to Preston trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Southampton and Preston from $36 (€29). 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
4h 35m
Cheapest Price
$97 (€79)
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
4h 39m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€85)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 31m
Cheapest Price
$297 (€242)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Preston; ask the driver for the cheapest suitable ticket.
- Most local travel is by bus from Preston Bus Station; check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app before you travel.
FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Southampton to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $97 (€79), while the average price is around $150 (€122).
The train from Southampton to Preston takes 4h 35m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Southampton to Preston is 205 miles (331 km).
The first train from Southampton to Preston leaves at 4:49 AM.
The last train from Southampton to Preston leaves at 9:18 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Preston.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Preston is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Preston is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from Southampton to Preston offers varied scenery, including views of picturesque countryside, charming towns, and glimpses of urban landscapes, particularly as you travel through regions like the Cotswolds and the Peak District.
A day trip from Southampton to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 35m. However, there are 5 train trips available per day.
To fully experience Preston's main attractions and local culture, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Preston.
Since neither Southampton nor Preston 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 Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Preston 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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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 Southampton to Preston
Most Southampton to Preston trains use the Southampton Central to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Southampton station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Preston leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · $2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre
Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · $4 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · $2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · $2 · every ~37 min
Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: 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. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
SholingSholing station, Station Road, Sholing, Hampshire, SO19 8HH
City-centre transport
Getting to Sholing from Southampton city centre
Sholing is 2 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthampton Central - Portsmouth & Southsea, Southampton Central - Portsmouth Harbour · 15m · $4 · every ~2 min
BusX4, X5 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min
7 · 10m · $2 · every ~10 min
7, 15, 19, 19a · 16m · $2 · every ~45 min
Sholing train station facilities and services
Sholing has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Sholing.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Sholing.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sholing: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Sholing: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sholing: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - There is step-free access to Platform 2 (for trains to Fareham) using a long ramp (40m) at approx 1:10 gradient (up to 1:7 in places). There is no step-free access to Platform 1 (towards Southampton, which is accessed via a stepped footbridge only). Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Preston station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Southampton to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Southampton
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