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Liverpool to Preston train ticket prices

Travelling from Liverpool to Preston by train? Find fares from as low as £3.87. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

£3.87󰄽

On Sun 4

  • Sun4Oct
  • £7.00󰄽
    Mon5Oct
  • £3.87󰄽
    Tue6Oct
  • £3.87󰄽
    Wed7Oct
  • £4.90󰄽
    Thu8Oct
  • £3.87󰄽
    Fri9Oct
  • £5.80󰄽
    Sat10Oct

Liverpool to Preston train timetable

Travelling from Liverpool to Preston, the fastest train takes 45m with an average travel time of 1h 19m. 26 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 08:29 and the last at 23:30. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

10:12

Liverpool Lime Street
47m, Direct

10:59

Preston (Lancs)
TransPennine Express
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10:15

Liverpool Lime Street
1h 4m, Direct

11:19

Preston (Lancs)
Northern
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10:20

Liverpool Lime Street
1h 20m, 2 change

11:40

Preston (Lancs)
Avanti West Coast
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11:20

Liverpool Lime Street
1h 20m, 2 change

12:40

Preston (Lancs)
Avanti West Coast
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12:15

Liverpool Lime Street
1h 4m, Direct

13:19

Preston (Lancs)
Northern
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Liverpool to Preston train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Liverpool to Preston 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.

Price
From £3.87
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
27 miles (43km)
Journey time
45m
First train
08:29
Last train
23:30
Frequency
26

TransPennine Express: Liverpool to Preston trains

By Rosaline Nancy Kargbo | Updated May 20, 2026
A direct journey from Liverpool to Preston will take around 46 minutes with TransPennine Express, or 56 minutes on average with Northern.
Sit back and relax as you travel through Merseyside, skirt alongside Greater Manchester, and into the county of Lancashire to arrive at the charming city of Preston.
TransPennine Express operates regional and long-distance intercity services designed to connect major UK cities in the North of England and Scotland, including cities such as Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

Departing from Liverpool Lime Street

Liverpool Lime Street is right in the city centre, making it a very convenient station to depart from. It's connected by buses and taxis, which are located nearby. There is a taxi rank on Skelhorne Street, and Liverpool's main bus station is only a four-minute walk from the station on Roe Street.

Liverpool Lime Street is the largest station in the city and dates back to 1836, making it the world’s oldest still-operating mainline terminus station!

Because of its centrality, it acts as a major hub connecting destinations across the UK, from cities such as Newcastle, London, Leeds, Manchester, and Birmingham to smaller, more regional towns like Preston and rural stops. Major UK train operators, including Avanti West Coast, Northern, and TransPennine Express, run their routes from here.

Main stops

There are only two stations between Liverpool and Preston with TransPennine Express. They are: St Helen's Central and Wigan North Western. If you are travelling with Northern, there are usually five stops: Huyton, St Helen's Central, Wigan North Western, Euxton Balshaw Lane, and Leyland.

These stops may change, however. So, it's best to check before you travel.

Booking in advance and using a Railcard is a great way to secure a cheaper fare. Sites like TrainPal can also help you buy cheap train tickets.

Arriving at Preston(Lancs)

Preston(Lancs) station can be found right in the centre of the town, with nearby accessible public transport, including buses and taxis. It is located on Fishergate opposite Fishergate Shopping Centre.

If you're a nature lover, there's so much to do in Preston. For example, Avenham and Miller Parks provide space to spend time in nature, where you'll find scenic riverside paths and expansive green spaces. Brockholes Nature Reserve is another ideal place to see the region's diverse wildlife, ideal for birdwatchers and hikers. If history is more your thing, Preston has a list of museums and art galleries that'll get your attention.

Major UK train operators pass through Preston, making it easily accessible to other towns and cities in the region and the rest of the UK. These include Northern, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, and TransPennine Express.

TransPennine train classes

  • Standard Class: TransPennine Express Standard Class offers walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and charging plugs for your devices.
  • First Class: The Liverpool to Preston First Class ticket with TransPennine Express will give you access to more legroom, reclining seats, free Wi-Fi and complimentary food and drink.

TransPennine train travel advice

  • Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.

  • Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.

  • Bicycles: Bikes can be stored free of charge, but space is limited. You must book a space for your bike before you travel.

  • Children: Under 5’s can travel for free. Children aged 5 to 15 can save 50% on their tickets. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
  • Passenger Assist: Providing ramps for entering and exiting trains, luggage support, and station guidance, with help for stairs and provision of wheelchairs or buggies for covering greater distances.

Northern: Liverpool to Preston trains

Northern operates trains across Northern England, including the North East, North West, and Yorkshire & Humberside. It serves a diverse range of passengers, from daily urban commuters to suburban and rural holiday travellers, connecting major cities like Newcastle, Preston, York, Leeds, and Manchester to smaller regional hubs like Knaresborough, Chester-Le-Street and Sunderland.

Northern train classes

  • Standard Class: Comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi. There are also tables and power sockets for your devices.

  • First Class: Northern does not have First Class sections on any of its trains.

Northern train travel advice

  • Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.

  • Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.

  • Bicycles: Bikes can be stored free of charge, but space is limited. There is no need to book a space.

  • Children: Under 5’s can travel for free. Children aged 5 to 15 can save 50% on their tickets. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.

  • Passenger Assist: Assist passengers with boarding and alighting trains, help with entering and exiting stations, reserve seats, purchase tickets, and more.

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

Why book Liverpool to Preston trains with TrainPal?

  • Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?

    TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Liverpool to Preston start from just £3.87 on TrainPal.

  • Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?

    TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., Northern, TransPennine Express on the Liverpool to Preston route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.

Liverpool to Preston train travel guide

The train journey from Liverpool to Preston combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Liverpool, you can get to Preston in just 45m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Liverpool to Preston?

The average fare from Liverpool to Preston is approximately £3.87, 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 Liverpool to Preston by train?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Liverpool to Preston.

What is the fastest train from Liverpool to Preston?

The fastest train journey time from Liverpool to Preston is 45m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.

Are there direct trains from Liverpool to Preston?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Liverpool to Preston. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Liverpool to Preston?

Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

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

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Liverpool to Preston train timetables?

Liverpool to Preston 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?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

Do Liverpool to Preston trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Liverpool to Preston are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the Liverpool to Preston route?

The route from Liverpool to Preston is operated by Northern. 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

  • Luggage

    Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.

  • Bicycle

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.

  • 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.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.

How to buy cheap Liverpool to Preston train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.