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Manchester Piccadilly to Chester train ticket prices
£1.35
On Fri 17 Apr
Manchester Piccadilly to Chester train timetable
The journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester on the fastest train in 58m, usually 1h 12m. Each day, 82 trains leave from Manchester Piccadilly, starting at 00:24 and ending at 23:36. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
17:10 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 27m, Direct | 18:37 Chester | Northern | Find tickets |
17:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 14m, 1 change | 18:44 Chester | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
17:44 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 5m, Direct | 18:49 Chester | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
17:54 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 12m, 1 change | 19:06 Chester | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
17:54 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 15m, 1 change | 19:09 Chester | Northern | Find tickets |
Manchester Piccadilly to Chester train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester 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.
Transport for Wales vs Northern: Which train for Manchester Piccadilly to Chester?
Choose between Transport for Wales (TfW) and Northern for your train from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester. Will you prioritise comfort and speed or friendly low fares?
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Transport for Wales | 1h 4m | Manchester Piccadilly | Fastest Direct Route, First Class | Seasonal menus in First Class |
Northern | 1h 25m | Manchester Piccadilly | Local Stops, Friendly Service | Single class throughout the train, USB charging |
- Transport for Wales runs a wide network of rail services in Wales and the bordering regions of England. For the fastest route between Manchester and Chester, and the option to upgrade to First Class, choose Transport for Wales.
- Northern serves 474 stations across the North of England. On the route from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester, choose Northern for more local stops, and a friendly onboard experience.
Train travel from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester
Soar westwards on this short journey to the Welsh border in style when you follow these local station secrets. Chester is known for its Eastgate Clock – you’ll get to the famous city faster when you travel by train!
Manchester Piccadilly: Getting to the Platform
A busy station in the heart of the buzzing city of Manchester, Piccadilly has top-class facilities, a welcoming feel, and Bee Network access from around Greater Manchester.
- Manchester Metrolink: One of the most stylish ways to arrive at Piccadilly is by tram on the Manchester Metrolink. Thanks to the Bee Network, passengers get subsidised low-fare local travel on trams and buses.
- Entrances on all sides: You’ll probably enter via Station Approach if you arrive at the station by bus or tram. From the city centre, Piccadilly Plaza is a convenient entry point, while Fairfield Street (to the southwest), and London Road (from the Northern Quarter) provide alternatives.
- Drinks and more: Trains to Chester typically depart from platform 14, so be sure to allow plenty of time so you don’t miss the train! On the way to the platform, stop at Costa Coffee, or shops like WHSmith and Boots for any last-minute buys.
Onboard trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester
On the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester, you’ll pass through scenic sights before arriving in the charming city of Chester.
- Key Landmarks: Chester Cathedral awaits, but first you’ll pass natural scenery like Bog Wood and the River Gowy. The Transport for Wales route takes you through urban stops like Warrington, while the Northern service stops at Stockport and Altrincham.
- The View Alert: You’ll find pleasant views on either side, but the TfW train has especially scenic sights on the Left-Hand Side of the carriage (facing West).
Arriving at Chester
Where are you going first? To walk the city walls? Or straight to the Eastgate Clock? Whatever your day out in Chester looks like, here’s how to get out of the station and onto your next step.
- Accessible exit: Chester has seven platforms, making it a mid-sized station. With an accessible design, the station is simple to navigate for a speedy exit into the city. Head out through the main exit onto Station Road.
- Historical building: Opened in the mid-1800s, Chester Station is the first of many historical sights you will see on your day in Chester. The station is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a Grade II* listed building. Today it is managed by Transport for Wales.
- Arriva here and there: If you’re heading into nearby towns or villages, Arriva runs buses from Chester all around Cheshire. The city is highly walkable too, with the Grosvenor Museum only 20 minutes on foot.
Manchester Piccadilly to Chester train travel guide
Travelling by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Manchester Piccadilly, you can reach Chester in just 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Chester?
The average fare from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester is approximately £1.35, 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Chester by train?
What is the fastest train from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester?
The quickest train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester takes 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Chester?
No, there are no direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
Is it worth taking a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester?
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
How do I find Manchester Piccadilly to Chester train timetables?
Manchester Piccadilly to Chester trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
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 Manchester Piccadilly to Chester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester 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?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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 Manchester Piccadilly to Chester route?
The train from Manchester Piccadilly to Chester is operated by Avanti West Coast. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
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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
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Manchester Piccadilly to Chester 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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