Watford to Manchester train with Avanti West Coast

Fri, May 29
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Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
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2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Watford to Manchester

Showing times and prices for May 29

Cheapest price

$67

Average price

$88

Fastest journey

2 h 27 m

Average duration

2 h 27 m

Trains per day

12

Distance

238 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Watford to Manchester will cost around $88 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Watford to Manchester without transferring at least once.

  • West Midlands TrainsY80809+Avanti West CoastW33961
    8:38 AM2h27
    Watford Junction (WFJ)
    11:05 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $671One-way
    1 transfer
  • West Midlands TrainsY80809+Avanti West CoastW33961+London OvergroundC34122
    8:29 AM2h36
    Watford High Street (WFH)
    11:05 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $671One-way
    2 transfers
  • West Midlands TrainsC17800+Avanti West CoastW34059
    9:38 AM2h27
    Watford Junction (WFJ)
    12:05 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $831One-way
    1 transfer
  • West Midlands TrainsC17800+Avanti West CoastW34059+London OvergroundC34148
    9:29 AM2h36
    Watford High Street (WFH)
    12:05 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $831One-way
    2 transfers
  • West Midlands TrainsY80856+Avanti West CoastW34061
    12:38 PM2h27
    Watford Junction (WFJ)
    3:05 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $931One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, flight, and bus for Watford to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Watford to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $54. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $54, and a flight costs an average of $75.

Distance: 147 miles (238 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$85

Average price

$55

Average price

Cheapest

$209

Average price

$79

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 26m

Average total duration

2h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 2m

Average total duration

6h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 2m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 2m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 30m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.7 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Watford to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $55 (€44).

This is compared to other travel options from Watford to Manchester:

A bus is $30 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Watford to Manchester costing on average $85 (€68).

A bus is $154 (€124) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Watford to Manchester costing on average $209 (€169).

The fastest way to travel from Watford to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 2m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 56m.

Bus takes on average 6h 32m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Watford and Manchester including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Watford 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 34m sooner (2h 56m by train vs 3h 30m by car). Tickets start at around $85 (€68) compared to roughly $79 (€64) 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.

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

Watford to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Watford to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Friday, May 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
West Midlands TrainsY80809+Avanti West CoastW33961+London OvergroundC341228:29 AM Watford High Street (WFH)
2h36
11:05 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsY80809+Avanti West CoastW339618:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ)
2h27
11:05 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
West Midlands TrainsC17800+Avanti West CoastW34059+London OvergroundC341489:29 AM Watford High Street (WFH)
2h36
12:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsC17800+Avanti West CoastW340599:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ)
2h27
12:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
West Midlands TrainsY80832+Avanti West CoastW34210+London OvergroundC3417510:28 AM Watford High Street (WFH)
2h37
1:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsY80832+Avanti West CoastW3421010:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ)
2h27
1:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
West Midlands TrainsY80843+Avanti West CoastW34101+London OvergroundC3420311:28 AM Watford High Street (WFH)
2h37
2:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsY80843+Avanti West CoastW3410111:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ)
2h27
2:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
West Midlands TrainsY80856+Avanti West CoastW34061+London OvergroundC3423112:28 PM Watford High Street (WFH)
2h37
3:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsY80856+Avanti West CoastW3406112:38 PM Watford Junction (WFJ)
2h27
3:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
West Midlands TrainsY80867+Avanti West CoastW34053+London OvergroundC342451:28 PM Watford High Street (WFH)
2h37
4:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsY80867+Avanti West CoastW340531:38 PM Watford Junction (WFJ)
2h27
4:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Watford to Manchester by train, flight, or bus

Compare train, flight, 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.

Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04

Why should you book Watford to Manchester trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Watford to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Watford to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Watford 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Watford to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Watford to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Watford to Manchester.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Watford to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Watford to Manchester is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Watford to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Watford 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 Watford to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Watford to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Watford to Manchester run on average 19 times per day, taking around 2h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€39) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:00, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 147 miles (238 km) distance in 2h 27m.

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
147 miles (238 km)
Average train duration
2h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$49 (€39)
Trains per day
19
Fastest train
2h 27m
First train
3:00 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
42 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: Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry from Watford to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry trains will get you between Watford and Manchester from $49 (€39). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
2h 27m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€39)
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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 48m
Cheapest Price
$54 (€43)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel 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
CrossCountry frequency
3 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

FAQs: Trains from Watford to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Watford 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 Watford to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€39), while the average price is around $85 (€68).
The train from Watford to Manchester takes 2h 27m and runs 19 per day.
The first train from Watford to Manchester leaves at 3:00 AM.
The distance by train from Watford to Manchester is 147 miles (238 km).
The last train from Watford to Manchester leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Watford to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Watford to Manchester. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Watford to Manchester.
The train station in Watford that goes to Manchester is Watford Junction (WFJ), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Watford to Manchester is by train, with a cost of around $49 (€39).
The train journey from Watford to Manchester offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the scenic English countryside, with rolling hills and occasional picturesque towns along the route.
A day trip from Watford to Manchester is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 27m. Trains run every 19 per day, with the distance being 147 miles (238 km).
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 Watford to Manchester.
Since neither Watford 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 Watford 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 Watford to Manchester

Watford
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Watford is Watford Junction. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Watford Junction for your trip from Watford to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:30 - 23:00 Saturday 05:30 - 23:00 Sunday 06:30 - 22:30 Booking Office and Travel Centre
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible on platform 6
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall.
  • 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 toilets are located on Platform 6. The toilet facilities are available: Monday - Sunday 04:00-23:00. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from station staff upon request. The National key toilet facilities are available: Monday - Saturday 04:00-14:00 and Sunday 06:00-14:00.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: Station forecourt
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Watford Junction
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from bay 1 of the bus station at the side of the railway station.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:30 - 10:00 Saturday 09:30 - 12:15
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: High Street shops located nearby
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only
  • Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Watford High Street
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Lower High Street for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Lower High Street for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
  • Metro: Watford London Underground station (Metropolitan line) is approximately 34 minutes' walk away
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:45 - 21:00 Saturday 08:15 - 15:15 Sunday 09:15 - 16:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Bushey Station
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: behind the Ticket Office
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
  • Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Bushey
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone

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