Stafford to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Sun, Sep 20
+ Add return
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
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 Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$27

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$27

Fastest journey on Sep 20

1 h 33 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

1 h 33 m

Trains on Sep 20

1

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 $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.

Fast trains

On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Stafford to Manchester, including 1 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 1 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 33 m .

On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 1 h 33 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.

  • CrossCountry
    9:32 AM1h33
    Stafford
    11:05 AMManchester
    $271One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Stafford to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stafford to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $31 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 29m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $31, while a train costs an average of $31.

Distance: 47 miles (76 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$31

Average price

Cheapest

$21

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 25m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Stafford to Manchester is a train with an average price of $31.
The fastest way to travel from Stafford to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 59m.
Yes, you can take a train between Stafford and Manchester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Stafford to Manchester 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 (59m by train vs 1h 25m by car). Tickets start at around $31 compared to roughly $21 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 CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country.

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 Stafford to Manchester by train

Compare 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Stafford to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Cross Country, West Midlands Trains 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, Cross Country or West Midlands Trains 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, Cross Country or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Stafford to Manchester.

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 10 times per day, taking around 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 if you book in advance.

There are 8 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
59m
Cheapest ticket price
$8
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
8
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

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 $8. 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
$8
CrossCountry frequency
4 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
54m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$43
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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
$10
Northern Rail frequency
2 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
$41
Transport for Wales frequency
1 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

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.

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
Train ticket prices from Stafford to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $8, while the average price is around $31.
The train from Stafford to Manchester takes 51m and runs 10 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.
There is no high speed train available from Stafford to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Stafford to Manchester. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Stafford to Manchester.
The train station in Stafford that goes to Manchester is Stafford station (STA), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Stafford to Manchester is by train, with a cost of around $8.
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.
Yes, a day trip from Stafford to Manchester is feasible with a travel time of 51m, a distance of 47 miles (76 km), and a frequency of 7 trains per day.
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Stafford to Manchester.
Since neither Stafford nor Manchester 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 Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Stafford to Manchester 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 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.

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.

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