Stafford to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Fri, Mar 20
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CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail (3)
Cross Country
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail (3)
Cross Country
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stafford to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Mar 23

Cheapest price

$11

Average price

$13

Fastest journey

59 m

Average duration

1 h 23 m

Trains per day

3

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 $13 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Stafford for Manchester on Mon, Mar 23, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Mar 23 the direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 1 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 59 m .

On Mon, Mar 23 the slowest trains will take 1 h 40 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.

Northern Rail (3)
05:43AM1h40
Stafford
07:23AMManchester
$111One-way
0 transfers
Northern Rail (3)
08:11AM1h29
Stafford
09:40AMManchester
$111One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
08:00AM0h59
Stafford
08:59AMManchester
$171One-way
0 transfers

Live departures

Stafford to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Stafford to Manchester trains for today, Sunday, March 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:53 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
cross_country4:03 PM Stafford
0h57
5:00 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Monday, March 23
northern_rail5:43 AM Stafford
1h40
7:23 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
cross_country8:00 AM Stafford
0h59
8:59 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
northern_rail8:11 AM Stafford
1h29
9:40 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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.

Mon
Mar 23
Tue
Mar 24
Wed
Mar 25
Thu
Mar 26
Fri
Mar 27
Sat
Mar 28
Sun
Mar 29

Why should you book Stafford to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail (3), 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 (3), 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 (3), 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 8 times per day, taking around 1h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 (€6) if you book in advance.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 47 miles (76 km) distance in 55m.

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 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$8 (€6)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
55m
First train
03:40
Last train
23:32
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 (3), Cross Country, West Midlands Trains from Stafford to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail (3), Cross Country, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Stafford and Manchester from $8 (€6). 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
55m
Cheapest Price
$8 (€6)
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
1h 11m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€37)
Avanti West Coast frequency
21 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 (3)

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 Duration
1h 29m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
55m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€68)
Cross Country frequency
22 a day

West Midlands Trains

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 21m
West Midlands Trains frequency
7 a day

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 (€6), while the average price is around $23 (€19).
The train from Stafford to Manchester takes 55m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Stafford to Manchester leaves at 3:40 AM.
The distance by train from Stafford to Manchester is 47 miles (76 km).
The last train from Stafford to Manchester leaves at 11:32 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 7 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Cross Country.
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 (€6).
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 55m, 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Stafford to Manchester

Stafford
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Stafford is Stafford. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Stafford for your trip from Stafford to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 06:00 - 20:00 Sunday 08:30 - 20:00
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Stafford Multi Story (Car Park 2)
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
  • National key toilets: No
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: 84 cycle spaces in two bays on platform 1 with 42 cycle spaces in Car Park 2 (Multi-Story)
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Stafford
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.

Most popular train connections from Stafford

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