Stafford to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stafford to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
€9
Average ticket price on Nov 04
€26
Fastest journey on Nov 04
54 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
55 m
Trains on Nov 04
12
Distance
76 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stafford to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Stafford to Manchester will cost around €26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €9.

Fast trains

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 12 trains from Stafford to Manchester, including 9 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 54 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 56 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.

  • West Midlands TrainsC17887+Northern RailL89089
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG00855
    0 transfers
  • West Midlands TrainsC17856+Northern RailG90079 · G89577
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG66716
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00854
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Stafford to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Stafford to Manchester run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 if you book in advance.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 47 miles (76 km) distance in 51m.

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
47 miles (76 km)
Average train duration
1h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
€7
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
51m
First train
3:40 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
1 day
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Frequently asked questions about your Stafford to Manchester trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Stafford to Manchester.

Train ticket prices from Stafford to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €7, while the average price is around €26.
The train from Stafford to Manchester takes 51m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Stafford to Manchester is 47 miles (76 km).
The first train from Stafford to Manchester leaves at 3:40 AM.
The last train from Stafford to Manchester leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Stafford to Manchester. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast.

Live departures

Stafford to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Stafford to Manchester trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33954
Delayed
2:55 PM 2:50 PMStafford station (STA)
0h54
3:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00872
Delayed
3:05 PM 3:03 PMStafford station (STA)
0h56
3:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00875
On time
3:33 PM Stafford station (STA)
0h56
4:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, November 4
CrossCountryG007818:00 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h59
8:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailL89079+West Midlands TrainsC177778:11 AM Stafford station (STA)
1h29
9:40 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
CrossCountryG008478:33 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h56
9:29 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG90079 · G89577+West Midlands TrainsC178568:40 AM Stafford station (STA)
1h55
10:35 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW341478:50 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h54
9:44 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG667169:03 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h56
9:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG6672110:03 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h56
10:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailL89089+West Midlands TrainsC1788710:11 AM Stafford station (STA)
1h29
11:40 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
CrossCountryG0085110:33 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h56
11:29 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW3418510:50 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h54
11:44 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0085411:03 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h56
11:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0085511:33 AM Stafford station (STA)
0h56
12:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Stafford to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Stafford to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stafford to Manchester.

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, Northern Rail or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Stafford to Manchester.
  • 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Stafford to Manchester.

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales from Stafford to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Stafford and Manchester from €7. 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 CrossCountry Duration
51m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€7
CrossCountry frequency
5 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
52m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€26
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

Northern Rail

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
1h 6m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
€9
Northern Rail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

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
58m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
€34
Transport for Wales frequency
2 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Stafford and Manchester

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Stafford to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Stafford to Manchester.
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.

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.

Plan your visit to Manchester

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Manchester.

The train journey from Stafford to Manchester offers a mix of urban and countryside views, featuring picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and glimpses of charming villages, making it a moderately scenic route.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Stafford to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stafford to Manchester 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 Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Stafford to Manchester.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Stafford to Manchester

Most Stafford to Manchester trains use the Stafford to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Stafford and Manchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Stafford
Arrival train stations in Manchester

Which Stafford station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Stafford to Manchester leave from Stafford. The station is from Stafford city centre at Stafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AAShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.

Stafford train station facilities and services

Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Stafford.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Stafford.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Stafford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Stafford: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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: Yes.

Train stations for Stafford to Manchester

Check train stations information for Stafford and Manchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Stafford that goes to Manchester is Stafford, which connects to Manchester Piccadilly.

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