- 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, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$129
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$129
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 26 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 55 m
Trains on Sep 19
5
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 $129 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $129.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Watford to Preston without transferring at least once.
W33441 · W33442 · W337982:31 PM3h20Watford Junction (WFJ)5:51 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way2 transfers- W33415 · W33778 · W3379712:31 PM3h20Watford Junction (WFJ)3:51 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way2 transfers
- W33437+
Y147751:31 PM2h26Watford Junction (WFJ)3:57 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way1 transfer - W33437+Y14775+
C342431:13 PM2h44Watford High Street (WFH)3:57 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way2 transfers - W33473+Y14782+C342794:13 PM2h46Watford High Street (WFH)6:59 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way2 transfers
- W33437+Y147751:31 PM2h26Watford Junction (WFJ)3:57 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way1 transfer
- W33437+Y14775+C342431:13 PM2h44Watford High Street (WFH)3:57 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way2 transfers
- W33473+Y14782+C342794:13 PM2h46Watford High Street (WFH)6:59 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way2 transfers
- W33441 · W33442 · W337982:31 PM3h20Watford Junction (WFJ)5:51 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way2 transfers
- W33415 · W33778 · W3379712:31 PM3h20Watford Junction (WFJ)3:51 PMPreston station (PRE)$1291One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Watford to Preston
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Watford to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $173 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 0m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $173, while a flight costs an average of $458.
Distance: 175 miles (282 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$173 Average price Cheapest | $458 Average price | $75 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 56m Average total duration 1h 56m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Watford to Preston is a train with an average price of $173.
This is compared to other travel options from Watford to Preston:
A train is $285 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Watford to Preston costing on average $458.
The fastest way to travel from Watford to Preston is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 56m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Watford and Preston including taking a train and flight.
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 1h 12m sooner (2h 30m by train vs 3h 42m by car). Tickets start at around $173 compared to roughly $75 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.
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 today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:25 PM Watford | 2h21 | 11:46 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| W33415 · W33778 · W33797 | 12:31 PM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 3h20 | 3:51 PM Preston station (PRE) | 2 transfers | |
| W33437+Y14775+C34243 | 1:13 PM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h44 | 3:57 PM Preston station (PRE) | 2 transfers | |
| W33437+Y14775 | 1:31 PM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 2h26 | 3:57 PM Preston station (PRE) | 1 transfer | |
| W33441 · W33442 · W33798 | 2:31 PM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 3h20 | 5:51 PM Preston station (PRE) | 2 transfers | |
| W33473+Y14782+C34279 | 4:13 PM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h46 | 6:59 PM Preston station (PRE) | 2 transfers | |
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 or flight
Compare train and flight 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Watford to Preston trains with Omio?
Lumo as well as Avanti West Coast 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 Lumo?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Lumo, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast 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 Lumo with all available travel options, which are train and flight 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 Avanti West Coast 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 and flight 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 14 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $91 but you can travel from only $83 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 175 miles (282 km) distance in 2h 11m.
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
Flight from $83
Distance 175 miles (282 km) |
Average train duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 2h 11m |
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 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $83
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Lumo from Watford to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, Lumo trains will get you between Watford and Preston from $83. 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$91
Avanti West Coast frequency
18 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
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$129
Lumo frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
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 $91, while the average price is around $173.
The train from Watford to Preston takes 2h 11m and runs 14 per day.
The first train from Watford to Preston leaves at 5:25 AM.
The distance by train from Watford to Preston is 175 miles (282 km).
The last train from Watford to Preston leaves at 9:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Watford to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Watford to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available 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 flight, with a cost of around $83.
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 2h 11m, 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.
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.
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.
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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