- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester
Showing times and prices for Jul 20
Cheapest price
$10
Average price
$25
Fastest journey
35 m
Average duration
38 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
53 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester will cost around $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Stoke-on-Trent for Manchester on Mon, Jul 20, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 20 the direct trains cover the 53 km distance in an average of 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 35 m .
On Mon, Jul 20 the slowest trains will take 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.
L8920812:55 PM0h55Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:50 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$101One-way0 transfers
W3419812:44 PM0h35Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:19 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$191One-way0 transfers- W3421012:27 PM0h38Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:05 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$191One-way0 transfers
G0085812:49 PM0h40Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:29 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$331One-way0 transfers- G667351:21 PM0h38Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$331One-way0 transfers
- W3419812:44 PM0h35Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:19 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$191One-way0 transfers
- W3421012:27 PM0h38Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:05 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$191One-way0 transfers
- G667351:21 PM0h38Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$331One-way0 transfers
- G6673012:21 PM0h38Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)12:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$331One-way0 transfers
- G0085812:49 PM0h40Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT)1:29 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$331One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 44m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $4.
Distance: 32 miles (53 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$14 Average price | $10 Average price Cheapest | $14 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 14m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 2m Average total duration 1h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $10 (€8).
This is compared to other travel options from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester costing on average $14 (€12).
The fastest way to travel from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 44m.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Stoke-on-Trent and Manchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 25m faster (44m by train vs 1h 9m by car) and roughly $0.29 (€0.24) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($14 (€12) vs $14 (€12)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Northern Trains Limited.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Monday, July 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G66730 | 12:21 PM Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT) | 0h38 | 12:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34210 | 12:27 PM Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT) | 0h38 | 1:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34198 | 12:44 PM Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT) | 0h35 | 1:19 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G00858 | 12:49 PM Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT) | 0h40 | 1:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L89208 | 12:55 PM Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT) | 0h55 | 1:50 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G66735 | 1:21 PM Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT) | 0h38 | 1:59 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 Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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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Jul 20
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Why should you book Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Cross Country or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Stoke-on-Trent 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Cross Country or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester?
The best time to book your train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
Trains
from $13Buses
from $6Journey information
Overview: Train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester run on average 9 times per day, taking around 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 (€4) if you book in advance.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 32 miles (53 km) distance in 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
Distance 32 miles (53 km) |
Average train duration 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 (€4) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 35m |
First train 12:10 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Train companies: Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Northern Trains Limited from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester trainsNorthern Rail, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Stoke-on-Trent and Manchester from $4 (€4). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
55m
Cheapest Price
$4 (€4)
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
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
35m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
Avanti West Coast frequency
19 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
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
38m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
38m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
Cross Country frequency
19 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
55m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
12 a day
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
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.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side district with Roman remains, warehouses, and walkable towpaths. One of Manchester's most atmospheric urban areas.
- Must visit
Albert Square
Central square framed by grand civic buildings, museums, and monuments. A classic starting point for exploring the city centre.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Creative quarter of street art, music history, indie shops, and nightlife. It is one of Manchester's most characterful neighborhoods.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Curry Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with spiced potatoes, onion and often chickpeas. Created by Manchester’s South Asian community and now a city staple.
Steak and Onion Pudding
A comforting Northern pudding of suet pastry filled with beef and onion, traditionally steamed and served with gravy. Common in Greater Manchester pubs.
Fish and Chips
Manchester’s classic order of battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and curry sauce. A long-standing local takeaway favourite.
Slattery
Iconic market bakery and café known for Manchester tarts, Eccles cakes and hearty lunches. Casual, busy and deeply rooted in local food culture.
Mana
Refined modern British fine dining in a restored townhouse. Known for tasting menus, polished service and one of Manchester’s top culinary reputations.
Mughli
Lively Indian restaurant famous for bold curries, grills and chaat. A long-established Rusholme favourite with a casual, energetic atmosphere.
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 Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stoke-on-Trent 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 Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4 (€4), while the average price is around $14 (€12).
The train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester takes 35m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester leaves at 12:10 AM.
The distance by train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester is 32 miles (53 km).
The last train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Northern Trains Limited.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
The train station in Stoke-on-Trent that goes to Manchester is Stoke-on-Trent station (SOT), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester is by train, with a cost of around $4 (€4).
The train journey from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Staffordshire countryside, glimpses of the Peak District, and the transition into the vibrant cityscape of Manchester.
Yes, a day trip from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester is feasible with a travel time of 35m and a distance of 32 miles (53 km). Trains run 9 times 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 Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester.
Since neither Stoke-on-Trent 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 Stoke-on-Trent 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.
Most popular train connections from Stoke-on-Trent
More options for your journey from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Manchester and Stoke-on-Trent
Most popular train connections to Manchester
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