- Must visit
Ashmolean Museum
The University of Oxford’s world-class museum of art and archaeology, known for major collections from Ancient Egypt to modern art.
Cheapest price
$33
Average price
$129
Fastest journey
2 h 48 m
Average duration
2 h 49 m
Trains per day
23
Distance
203 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Oxford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Oxford will cost around $129 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
Of the 23 trains that leave Manchester for Oxford on Sat, Jun 20, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 203 km distance in an average of 2 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 48 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 49 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.
G00998
G01033
G01187+
V11491+
C16953
V94018+
C16958+
W29938
V94017+
C16963+
G01189
G01037
G01041
G01033
G01010
G01028Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Oxford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 3m. 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 $16, and a flight costs an average of $85.
Distance: 126 miles (203 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$82 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest | $222 Average price | $71 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 26m Average total duration 2h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 42m Average total duration 4h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Oxford:
A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Oxford costing on average $82 (€67).
A bus is $190 (€155) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Oxford costing on average $222 (€182).
Other travel options to Oxford take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 56m.
Bus takes on average 4h 12m.
You'll arrive about 12m sooner (2h 56m by train vs 3h 8m by car). Tickets start at around $82 (€67) compared to roughly $71 (€58) 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 CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Oxford trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W33950+ G01000 | On time 6:02 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h13 | 9:15 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 1 transfer | |
W34115+ G01176 | On time 6:23 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h18 | 9:41 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 1 transfer | |
W33953+ G66937 · G01176 | On time 6:29 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h12 | 9:41 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
G01003 | On time 7:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h52 | 10:17 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G38868+ C16918+ W29925 | On time 7:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h08 | 10:38 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
G01005 | On time 8:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h49 | 11:14 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G38870+ C16923+ G01178 | On time 8:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h10 | 11:40 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
G01009 | On time 9:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h49 | 12:14 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G38873+ C16927+ G01180 | On time 9:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h09 | 12:39 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
G01013 | On time 10:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h49 | 1:14 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01018 | On time 11:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h50 | 2:15 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G38877+ C16936+ G01184 | On time 11:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h06 | 2:36 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
G01022 | On time 12:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h50 | 3:15 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01024 | On time 1:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h50 | 4:15 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G38880+ C16947+ W29935 | On time 1:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h10 | 4:40 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
G01027 | On time 2:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h49 | 5:14 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G38882+ C16951+ G01186 | On time 2:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h11 | 5:41 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
G01032 | On time 3:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h50 | 6:15 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G38885+ C16956+ W29937 | On time 3:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h07 | 6:37 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
G01035 | On time 4:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h49 | 7:14 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G38886+ C16962+ G01188 | On time 4:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h09 | 7:39 PM Oxford station (OXF) | 2 transfers | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
G00998 | 5:11 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h03 | 8:14 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, 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.
Trains from Manchester to Oxford run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:20, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 126 miles (203 km) distance in 2h 46m.
Distance 126 miles (203 km) |
Average train duration 2h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 46m |
First train 4:20 AM |
Last train 10:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Oxford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oxford trip today.
The University of Oxford’s world-class museum of art and archaeology, known for major collections from Ancient Egypt to modern art.
A distinctive anthropology and archaeology museum famous for densely displayed cases of global cultural objects and scientific curiosities.
Oxford’s main natural history museum, noted for dinosaur skeletons, scientific specimens, and the striking neo-Gothic building.
A central historic street lined with major university buildings, bookstores, and classic Oxford views ideal for first-time visitors.
Often considered one of England’s most beautiful streets, with elegant facades, churches, and college entrances.
The ceremonial heart of historic Oxford, surrounded by landmark buildings and one of the city’s most photographed spaces.
A historic local pork sausage, traditionally seasoned with sage and sometimes veal or beef, long associated with Oxfordshire pubs and colleges.
A famous Oxfordshire pastry from nearby Banbury, filled with spiced currants and raisins in flaky pastry; a classic regional sweet treat.
A traditional thick-cut orange marmalade associated with the city’s breakfast tables and old English pantry traditions.
An established restaurant in a Victorian glasshouse, serving Mediterranean-leaning dishes in one of Oxford’s most distinctive dining rooms.
A respected fine-dining restaurant by the river, known for elegant European cooking, strong wine selection, and a refined Oxford occasion atmosphere.
A well-known historic riverside pub outside central Oxford, popular for classic British dishes, Sunday roasts, and a scenic traditional atmosphere.
Oxford is pricey by UK standards, especially for hotels and central dining, though pubs, chains, and takeaway options can keep daily costs lower.
Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip about 10-12.5% for good service. No tip needed for counter service. Round up taxis; hotel tips are optional.
Official public transport app
Oxford Railway Station, Oxford -> Carfax Tower, Oxford
The train connection between Manchester and Oxford offers a convenient way to travel between these two cities. With services provided by Cross Country and Avanti West Coast, passengers can enjoy comfortable journeys that typically take around 2 hours. The trains are well-equipped with amenities, ensuring a pleasant ride as you traverse the scenic English countryside. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this route provides an efficient option for exploring both destinations.
Traveling from Manchester to Oxford takes approximately 2 hours and 46 minutes. There are 12 connections available each day, all of which are direct services. The journey begins at Manchester Piccadilly and concludes at Oxford station.
The first daily train journey from Manchester to Oxford departs at 05:11, allowing early travelers to start their day. The last departure is scheduled for 20:25, providing a convenient option for those wishing to return later in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for a train from Manchester to Oxford is €44. The average ticket price typically hovers around this amount, making it an accessible option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities in the UK.
The University of Oxford, founded in the 12th century, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Its significance lies not only in its academic excellence but also as a birthplace for numerous influential thinkers and leaders who have shaped history. As you stroll through its historic colleges, you'll notice unique architectural styles that reflect centuries of scholarly tradition.
The Radcliffe Camera, completed in 1749, serves as a stunning centerpiece to Oxford's skyline and functions primarily as a reading room for students at the Bodleian Library. This iconic circular building is significant because it symbolizes both knowledge and enlightenment during an era when education was becoming increasingly accessible. With its striking dome and intricate detailing, it's truly a masterpiece that invites visitors to pause and appreciate its beauty.
The Bodleian Library boasts over 13 million printed items making it one of the largest libraries in Europe; established around 1602, it has been pivotal to research since then. Its historical importance cannot be overstated—housing rare manuscripts dating back centuries makes this library invaluable for scholars worldwide. Unique features like medieval architecture combined with modern technology create an inspiring atmosphere where past meets present seamlessly.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Oxford 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 Oxford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Manchester to Oxford trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Oxford station pair, with some services arriving at Oxford Parkway. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Oxford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester Oxford Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Oxford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Oxford.
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford. ATMs are available at Oxford.
Ticket office support is available at Oxford.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Oxford: Parking, WC.
Available at Oxford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and an overbridge to access platform 4. Safety warning - Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please request staff assistance or call our free help line for, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Situated by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Oxford Parkway is 5 km from Oxford city centre. Public transport options include:
Oxford Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Oxford Parkway.
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford Parkway. ATMs are available at Oxford Parkway.
Ticket office support is available at Oxford Parkway. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03456 005 165, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Available at Oxford Parkway: Parking, WC.
Available at Oxford Parkway: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to platforms via lifts, Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
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