- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Watford to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$110
Average price
$237
Fastest journey
2 h 21 m
Average duration
2 h 44 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
282 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Watford to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Watford to Preston will cost around $237 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.
Fast trains
Of the 9 trains that leave Watford for Preston on Wed, Aug 05, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 282 km distance in an average of 2 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 21 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 2 h 59 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.
12:13 AM3h26Watford3:39 AMPreston$1101One-way0 transfers
5:48 AM2h21Watford8:09 AMPreston$2331One-way0 transfers- 7:31 AM3h19Watford10:50 AMPreston$2331One-way0 transfers
- 3:51 PM2h59Watford6:50 PMPreston$2331One-way0 transfers
- 9:25 PM2h21Watford11:46 PMPreston$2331One-way0 transfers
- 5:48 AM2h21Watford8:09 AMPreston$2331One-way0 transfers
- 9:25 PM2h21Watford11:46 PMPreston$2331One-way0 transfers
- 6:51 AM2h59Watford9:50 AMPreston$2851One-way1 transfer
- 7:01 AM2h59Watford10:00 AMPreston$2391One-way1 transfer
- 3:51 PM2h59Watford6:50 PMPreston$2331One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Watford to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Watford to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $85. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 3m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $85, and a flight costs an average of $156.
Distance: 175 miles (282 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$128 Average price | $106 Average price Cheapest | $272 Average price | $74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 40m Average total duration 3h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 24m Average total duration 4h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Watford to Preston is a bus with an average price of $106.
This is compared to other travel options from Watford to Preston:
A bus is $22 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Watford to Preston costing on average $128.
A bus is $166 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Watford to Preston costing on average $272.
The fastest way to travel from Watford to Preston is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 3m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 10m.
Bus takes on average 4h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Watford and Preston including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Watford to Preston 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 32m sooner (3h 10m by train vs 3h 42m by car). Tickets start at around $128 compared to roughly $74 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, Caledonian Sleeper.
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 Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Watford to Preston trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:13 AM Watford | 3h26 | 3:39 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:48 AM Watford | 2h21 | 8:09 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:51 AM Watford | 2h59 | 9:50 AM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 7:01 AM Watford | 2h59 | 10:00 AM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 7:31 AM Watford | 3h19 | 10:50 AM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 7:31 AM Watford | 3h19 | 10:50 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Watford to Preston 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
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Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Why should you book Watford to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Caledonian Sleeper or West Midlands Trains offer trains services from Watford to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Watford to Preston.
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 Caledonian Sleeper or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Watford to Preston.
- 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 Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Watford to Preston.
- 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 Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Watford to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Watford to Preston run on average 16 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $128 but you can travel from only $85 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 175 miles (282 km) distance in 3h 13m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $85
Distance 175 miles (282 km) |
Average train duration 3h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $128 |
Trains per day 16 |
Fastest train 3h 13m |
First train 5:25 AM |
Last train 9:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 3 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $85
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, West Midlands Trains from Watford to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Watford and Preston from $85. 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
3h 13m
Cheapest Price
$128
Avanti West Coast frequency
16 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
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 26m
Cheapest Price
$110
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
West Midlands Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 32m
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Preston; ask the driver for the cheapest suitable ticket.
- Most local travel is by bus from Preston Bus Station; check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app before you travel.
FAQs: Trains from Watford to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Watford to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Watford to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $128, while the average price is around $128.
The train from Watford to Preston takes 3h 13m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from Watford to Preston is 175 miles (282 km).
The first train from Watford to Preston leaves at 5:25 AM.
The last train from Watford to Preston leaves at 9:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Watford to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train from Watford to Preston. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper.
Yes, there is a night train from Watford to Preston.
The train station in Watford that goes to Preston is Watford Junction (WFJ), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Watford to Preston is by bus, with a cost of around $85.
The train journey from Watford to Preston offers a variety of landscapes, including urban views as you leave Watford, and transitions to picturesque countryside and rolling hills, particularly as you travel through the West Midlands and approach the northwest of England.
A day trip from Watford to Preston is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 13m, exceeding the 120-minute limit. Trains operate 13 times per day. The distance covered is 175 miles (282 km).
To fully experience Preston's main attractions and local culture, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Watford to Preston.
Since neither Watford nor Preston 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 Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Watford to Preston 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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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 Preston
Most Watford to Preston trains use the Watford Junction to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Watford and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Watford
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Watford station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Watford to Preston leave from Watford Junction. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Watford city centre at Watford Junction station, Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU.
Watford JunctionWatford Junction station, Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford Junction from Watford city centre
TrainLondon Euston - Watford Junction, Kilburn High Road - Watford Junction, Willesden Junction Low Level - Watford Junction · 5m · $1 · every ~9 min
BusW20 · 5m · $2 · every ~1 min
635 · 7m · $5 · every ~2 min
322 · 20m · $2 · every ~6 min
Watford Junction train station facilities and services
Watford Junction has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford Junction.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Watford Junction.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford Junction. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford Junction: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford Junction: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford Junction: 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.
BusheyBushey station, Pinner Road, Watford, Greater London, WD19 4EA+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Bushey from Watford city centre
Bushey is 1 km from Watford city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainWatford Junction - London Euston, Watford Junction - Willesden Junction Low Level, Watford Junction - Kilburn High Road · 2m · $1 · every ~9 min
Bus306, 832 · 9m · $5 · every ~4 min
602 · 11m · $2 · every ~5 min
885 · 14m
Bushey train station facilities and services
Bushey has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bushey.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bushey.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bushey. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bushey: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bushey: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bushey: 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.
Watford High StreetWatford High Street station, 182 Watford High Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2NW+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford High Street from Watford city centre
Bus321 · 3m · $5 · every ~10 min
306 · 6m · every ~4 min
Watford High Street train station facilities and services
Watford High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford High Street.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Watford High Street. ATMs are available at Watford High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford High Street: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford High Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford High Street: 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.
Which Preston station do trains from Watford arrive at?
Trains from Watford to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · $11 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Watford
More options for your journey from Watford to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Watford
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