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Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester train ticket prices
€30.87
On Fri 08 May
Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester train timetable
Travelling from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester, the fastest train takes 2h 58m with an average travel time of 3h 50m. 46 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:53 and the last at 22:58. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
16:00 Bristol Temple Meads | 2h 59m, Direct | 18:59 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
16:08 Bristol Temple Meads | 4h 6m, 2 change | 20:14 Manchester Piccadilly | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
17:00 Bristol Temple Meads | 2h 59m, Direct | 19:59 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
17:23 Bristol Temple Meads | 3h 50m, 1 change | 21:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
17:33 Bristol Temple Meads | 3h 32m, 3 change | 21:05 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
CrossCountry trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester
Is CrossCountry First Class worth it?
You’ll get larger reclining seats, more legroom and table space, and complimentary at-seat catering on weekday services (although as this is subject to availability, it is not guaranteed). Booking First Class Advance tickets will let you enjoy this comfort upgrade for less; Anytime First Class tickets may not feel worth it for the price difference compared to other operators.
Will my luggage fit on CrossCountry trains?
If you have a large suitcase, Coaches D and J have been modified with extra floor-level luggage stacks for big suitcases. Only small handbags or rucksacks will fit in the underseat space due to the foot pedestals. Please bear in mind that CrossCountry recommends not bringing more than one large item of luggage, with maximum dimensions of 90 x 70 x 30 cm.
Can I charge my phone on CrossCountry trains?
Refurbished Voyager trains feature power options at every seat, with 3-pin and USB A & C sockets available. This means you’ll no longer need to watch your phone battery drain if you’re not sitting at a table seat on these trains!
Train travel from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester
Travelling from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester by train is a breeze when you know what to expect. That’s where our handy guide comes in, so you can travel with complete peace of mind.
Departing from Bristol Temple Meads
If you’re arriving at Bristol Temple Meads from the centre, you can easily walk the distance, taking just 2–5 minutes from Temple Quay. Most local buses also stop at Temple Gate, the main road outside the station.
- Finding your platform: Manchester trains most frequently depart from Platforms 6, 8 or 10. Access is via a central tunnel. Follow the signs for your platform number and take the stairs or lift up to your platform.
- The Snack Run: Stock up on snacks in case your service doesn’t have catering available. You’ll find a WHS Smith, West Cornwall Pasty and Cafe Local in the station for drinks, sandwiches and pastries.
Onboard trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester
As this train passes through the heart of West England, the Midlands and towards the North West, you’ll get a taste of many different scenic areas of England.
- Look out for: The Cotswolds just after Bristol and the Peak District as you approach Manchester offer stunning landscape views. As you enter the Greater Manchester region, you’ll see the classic red brick architecture that defined the Industrial Revolution.
- The best side? This journey has lots of twists and turns, so you’ll get to appreciate the rolling scenery from either angle throughout this 3-hr journey.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly
Most trains arrive on the platform level, making it easy to continue to your next destination. However, Platforms 13 and 14 trains arrive on a high-level island, so you’ll need to factor in an extra 5 minutes to reach the main hall if you’re planning for a connection.
- Exit via the Main Station Exit at the far end of the main concourse, past the ticket barriers for platforms 1–12, if you’re walking to Canal Street, catching the free bus, or heading to Piccadilly Gardens and the main shopping districts.
- Exit via Fairfield Street (Lower Level) by taking the escalators/lifts near Platforms 10/11 down two levels. You should head this way if you are getting a taxi or heading to the University of Manchester or the O2 Apollo.
Take the escalators or lift to the basement level if you’re looking for the Metrolink. This will take you to destinations in Greater Manchester, such as Old Trafford or Etihad Campus.
Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester train travel guide
Travelling by train from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Bristol Temple Meads, you can reach Manchester in just 2h 58m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester?
The average fare from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester is approximately €30.87, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.
What is the best way to travel from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester by train?
What is the fastest train from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester?
The quickest train journey from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester takes 2h 58m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester?
Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Do Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester route?
The route from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester is operated by Avanti West Coast. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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Bicycle
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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