Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester Piccadilly Trains From £9.55*

Getting from Bristol to Manchester is easy by rail. Direct CrossCountry trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester Piccadilly are available every hour. The journey takes just under three hours, with spectacular countryside views along the way.

CrossCountry provides regional and intercity services to destinations like Derby, Glasgow and Exeter. With Birmingham New Street as its base, the operator’s network extends to the Midlands, East Anglia, the North of England, Wales and Scotland.

Departing from Bristol Temple Meads

The Bristol to Manchester train departs from Bristol Temple Meads station, the city’s oldest and largest station. Situated on Station Approach, Bristol Temple Meads is a key interchange for transport in the cathedral city. Many bus routes from other areas and surrounding suburbs serve the station. A ferry service also runs to the city centre - a scenic alternative to the 15-minute walk.

CrossCountry and Great Western Railway operate rail services from Bristol Temple Meads. Their routes connect passengers to stations like Gloucester, London Paddington and Weston-super-Mare.

Main stops

Services from Bristol Temple Meads to Manchester Piccadilly may also call at Cheltenham Spa, Birmingham New Street and Stoke-on-Trent. Stops on the route may vary according to the time, operator and route.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

Travelling from the heart of one city to another, the Bristol to Manchester train arrives at Manchester Piccadilly station. Getting to the city centre and popular spots like the Northern Quarter takes only 15 minutes. Located on Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester Piccadilly is well-served by public transport, including the tram (on the lower level of the station) and two free bus routes serving the city.

Manchester Piccadilly is one of the busiest railway hubs in the country. Trains connect passengers to destinations such as Stockport, Peterborough and Cardiff. CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern, TransPennine Express, East Midlands Railway (EMR) and Transport for Wales (TfW) operate services from the station.

The capital of the North is brimming with historical gems, from the stunning John Ryland Library to the Old Wellington Inn dating back to 1552. Factory International’s Aviva Studios is one of the city’s latest cultural landmarks for visual and performance arts. Stop by a café in the Northern Quarter or Society for street food and cocktails.

CrossCountry train classes

• Standard Class: CrossCountry’s Standard Class coaches have comfortable seats, dedicated luggage storage areas and free WiFi. Most services sell refreshments between 06:00 and 20:00. Book your trip early to buy cheap train tickets.
• First Class: Bristol to Manchester First Class carriages are fitted with wider reclining seats and larger tables. Passengers are also served complimentary food and drink.

CrossCountry train travel advice

• Luggage: Each passenger is allowed to bring a small bag, one medium bag and one large suitcase (90 x 70 x 30 centimetres max.).
• Bicycles: Pre-booking a bike space is recommended. E-bikes mustn’t exceed 250 watts, and e-scooters are not permitted on board.
• Children: Under-5s with a fare-paying adult travel for free. Most tickets are half price for 5–15-year-olds. Discounts for older teens and groups of up to four children and four adults are available with the 16–17 Saver Railcard or Family and Friends Railcard.
• Pets: Two pets are allowed on board per passenger. They must be on a leash or in a carrier and cannot occupy seats.
• Passenger Assist: Request any special assistance like alighting the train online, by phone or via the Transreport app or webform.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.