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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stafford to Manchester
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$24
Fastest journey
54 m
Average duration
56 m
Trains per day
6
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 $24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Stafford for Manchester on Thu, May 07, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 54 m .
On Thu, May 07 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.
W05254+
L112911:11 PM1h29Stafford station (STA)2:40 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$111One-way1 transfer
C723161:33 PM0h56Stafford station (STA)2:29 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$201One-way0 transfers- C7487912:33 PM0h56Stafford station (STA)1:29 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$201One-way0 transfers
- C749071:03 PM0h56Stafford station (STA)1:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$241One-way0 transfers
- C7490512:03 PM0h56Stafford station (STA)12:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$241One-way0 transfers
W0253412:50 PM0h54Stafford station (STA)1:44 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$441One-way0 transfers- C723161:33 PM0h56Stafford station (STA)2:29 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$201One-way0 transfers
- C7487912:33 PM0h56Stafford station (STA)1:29 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$201One-way0 transfers
- C749071:03 PM0h56Stafford station (STA)1:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$241One-way0 transfers
- C7490512:03 PM0h56Stafford station (STA)12:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$241One-way0 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 prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $8.
Distance: 47 miles (76 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$24 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 31m Average total duration Fastest 1h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 $24 (€19).
The fastest way to travel from Stafford to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 1h 1m.
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 24m sooner (1h 1m by train vs 1h 25m by car). Tickets start at around $24 (€19) compared to roughly $22 (€17) 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 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.
Live departures
Stafford to Manchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Stafford to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C74905 | 12:03 PM Stafford station (STA) | 0h56 | 12:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C74879 | 12:33 PM Stafford station (STA) | 0h56 | 1:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W02534 | 12:50 PM Stafford station (STA) | 0h54 | 1:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C74907 | 1:03 PM Stafford station (STA) | 0h56 | 1:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W05254+L11291 | 1:11 PM Stafford station (STA) | 1h29 | 2:40 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| C72316 | 1:33 PM Stafford station (STA) | 0h56 | 2:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 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.
Thu
May 07
May 07
Fri
May 08
May 08
Sat
May 09
May 09
Sun
May 10
May 10
Mon
May 11
May 11
Tue
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May 12
Wed
May 13
May 13
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
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 3:40 AM |
Last train 11:32 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 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
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Cross Country, West Midlands Trains from Stafford to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, 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
$46 (€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
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
$85 (€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.
Train ticket prices from Stafford to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $8 (€6), while the average price is around $24 (€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.
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
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
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 06:00 - 20:00 Sunday 08:30 - 20:00
Parking
- Car Park: Stafford Multi Story (Car Park 2)
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
- 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
- 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 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.
The major train station for arrivals in Manchester is Manchester Piccadilly. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Piccadilly for your journey to Manchester from Stafford.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWC
HotelTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
- Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Dining
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Carluccio’s
- Hotel Chocolat
- Starbucks
- The Pasty Shop
- Costa Coffee
- Pret a Manger
- Upper Crust
- McDonald's
- & more
Accessibility
- There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
- Premier Inn Manchester City
- Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Information Desk
- Located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Public transit options for Manchester Piccadilly
- Bus lines: 1, 2, 3, 147
- Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 06:30 - 22:30
Distance to city center
13 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge.
- Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3
- Accessible ticket machines: There are 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
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts. The Ladies toilets are located at the end of Platform 3. The Gents toilets are located at the end of Platform 2. The National key toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts, at the end of Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts, at the end of Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: No cycle storage
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Manchester Airport
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail Replacement bus services depart from stands L & M of the adjacent Bus Station which is situated close to the ticket office.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:40 Sunday 07:30 - 22:00
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: There will be no toilet provision at Manchester Oxford Road from 15th July to 25th July to allow for existing toilets to be refurbished
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: on Platform 4/5
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Manchester Oxford Road
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stops on Whitworth St West (200 yards from station) (station side for Liverpool, opposite side for Piccadilly)
Most popular train connections from Stafford
More options for your journey from Stafford to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Manchester and Stafford
Most popular train connections to Manchester
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