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Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street train times and prices
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
€4.77
On Tue 27
Live timetable and departures
Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street, the fastest train takes 46m with an average travel time of 53m. 43 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:08 and the last at 22:22. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
08:26 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h, Direct | 09:26 Liverpool Lime Street | Northern | Find tickets |
08:50 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 11m, 1 change | 10:01 Liverpool Lime Street | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
09:02 Manchester Piccadilly | 59m, 1 change | 10:01 Liverpool Lime Street | Northern | Find tickets |
09:24 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 38m, 1 change | 11:02 Liverpool Lime Street | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
09:24 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 59m, 1 change | 11:23 Liverpool Lime Street | Northern | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street
- TransPennine Express
- Northern
- Transport for Wales
First Class
Standard
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- 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.
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Children
- Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
- Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from Manchester Piccadilly
Address:
Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom
Public Transport Links:
Tram: Piccadilly tram station is on the Blue and Yellow lines of the Metrolink network, serving Manchester Airport, Bury, Altrincham and other areas.
Bus: First and Stagecoach operate many routes across the city and Greater Manchester, including Fallowfield, West Didsbury and Cheetham Hill. Both of the city’s free bus routes also stop at the station.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: You can catch a cab or have the driver drop you off at the station’s taxi rank on Fairfield Street.
Platforms:
16 platforms in total (14 National Rail and 2 Metrolink). Platforms 1-4 are mostly used by trains to Sheffield, Huddersfield and Crewe. Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry tend to use the longest platforms (5-9), while local services use the shorter(14 National Rail and 2 Metrolink) platforms (10-12). Services to Manchester Airport generally call at platforms 9-12. Trains to Wales, the north of England and Scotland typically depart from platform 13 or 14.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Use the lift to the left of the waiting area or on Fairfield Street to avoid the concourse crowds and long stair routes. It is ideal for getting around the station with luggage and moving between rail platforms, the tram stop and taxi rank."
FAQs about Manchester Piccadilly Station
Is there parking at Manchester Piccadilly station?
Yes, the station has a 24-hour long-stay car park on Boad Street with 856 spaces and 32 accessible bays. For short stays and drop-offs, use the car park on Fairfield Street (open 24 hours). There are 47 spaces and three accessible parking bays.
What time does Manchester Piccadilly train station open?
Manchester Piccadilly generally opens about 20 minutes before the first train, around 02:40.
Are there lockers at Manchester Piccadilly station?
There aren’t any self-service lockers at Manchester Piccadilly, but the station does have a left luggage office. The office is located between platforms 10 and 11. Drop off and pick up your belongings from 07:00–23:00, Monday to Saturday and 08:00–23:00 on Sunday.
What food places are in Manchester Piccadilly station?
Manchester Piccadilly station has a range of coffee kiosks, fast food outlets and grocery shops. Options include Tortilla, M&S and Caffè Nero.
Does Manchester Piccadilly station have toilets?
Yes, there are toilets opposite platforms 11 and 12 at Manchester Piccadilly. Additional facilities are on the upper concourse and near the waiting lounge by platforms 13 and 14. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available.
Arriving at Liverpool Lime Street
Address:
Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JD, United Kingdom
Onward Transit Options:
Bus: Arriva and Stagecoach operate frequent buses across the city and nearby towns. Hop on/off on Lime Street, Skelhorne Street and Elliot Street. Areas served include Kirkdale, Allerton and Wavertree.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: The main official taxi rank is located on Skelhorne Street (near the rear entrance and short-stay car park), with dedicated drop-off zones around the station perimeter.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
St John’s Gardens (4-min walk)
World Museum (6-min walk)
Victoria Gallery & Museum (16-minute walk)
The British Music Experience (18-min walk)
Tate Liverpool (25-min walk)
Airport Transfers:
Reach Liverpool John Lennon Airport by taking a frequent train (10-15 minutes) to Liverpool South Parkway, then a short 15-minute bus (86A) to the terminal. Direct Northern and TransPennine Express trains also run straight to Manchester Airport in about 1 hour and 15-25 minutes.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Navigating Liverpool Lime Street is generally straightforward, but it’s best to allow extra time during busy hours, especially when moving between the main line platforms and the underground Merseyrail Wirral Line. Using the lift or escalators near platform 1 to access the underground loop is often quicker and helps avoid the crowds."
FAQs: Liverpool Lime Street Station
When does Liverpool Lime Street station open?
Liverpool Lime Street opens just before train operating hours, around 04:35 on weekdays, 04:45 on Saturdays and 07:45 on Sundays.
How far is Anfield from Liverpool Lime Street station?
Anfield Stadium is 2 miles (3.2 kilometres) away from Liverpool Lime Street station.
Is there luggage storage at Liverpool Lime Street station?
Yes, the left luggage office at Liverpool Lime Street is by the escalators opposite the information point and platform 6. You can drop off and retrieve your belongings 07:00–23:00 from Monday to Saturday and 08:00–23:00 on Sundays and public holidays.
What shops are in Liverpool Lime Street station?
Liverpool Lime Street has a range of shops and food outlets, from Boots and WHSmith to Upper Crust, M&S and Costa.
Are there toilets at Liverpool Lime Street station?
Yes, there are male, female and accessible toilets by the Lord Nelson Street entrance. First Class ticket holders for an Avanti West Coast train can use the loos in the First Class lounge.
TransPennine Express vs East Midlands Railway vs Northern: Which one to choose?
If you’re travelling between Manchester Piccadilly station and Liverpool Lime Street station, you’ll choose between three operators. The journey covers roughly 31 miles and usually takes between 34 and 48 minutes, with over 100 direct trains running daily.
The table below gives a quick comparison to help you decide based on speed, comfort, and stopping patterns.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
TransPennine Express | 48 mins | Manchester Piccadilly | Comfort & tech | Free Wi-Fi, USB/power points, Nova fleets, bike storage |
East Midlands Railway | 50 mins | Manchester Piccadilly | Fast direct service | Direct routes, power sockets, standard/first class seating |
Northern | ~58 mins | Manchester Piccadilly | Frequent stops | Budget fares, more intermediate stops (e.g., Deansgate, Eccles) |
- Fastest connection: TransPennine Express and East Midlands Railway both regularly complete the journey in under 50 minutes.
- Onboard facilities: TransPennine Express stands out with modern “Nova” trains, offering consistent Wi-Fi and seat-side charging.
- Stopping patterns: Northern services call at more local stations, making them slower but more flexible for intermediate travel.
Train travels from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street
Departure from Manchester Piccadilly
Handling over 27 million passengers annually, Manchester Piccadilly Station is the largest station in the city and a key hub for Northern Rail travel.
Specific transport links
- The Metrolink: The Yellow and Blue lines stop directly beneath the station; escalators bring you up to the main concourse in under two minutes.
- Free bus: Route 1 connects key city centre locations, including Deansgate and Piccadilly Gardens, and stops right outside the Fairfield Street entrance.
- Local buses: Multiple routes stop along London Road and Fairfield Street.
Station layout
- Platforms 13 and 14: Most Liverpool-bound trains depart from these through platforms.
- Main concourse: Platforms 1–12 sit beneath the main shed, where you’ll find departure boards, ticket barriers, and staff assistance points.
- Accessibility: Lifts and escalators connect all platforms, though peak-time congestion is common near the bridge to platforms 13 and 14.
Pre-departure essentials
Inside the station, you’ll find everything needed for a quick departure. Grab a coffee from Pret A Manger and pick up a meal deal from Boots or Sainsbury’s Local near the entrance.
Onboard trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street
Covering roughly 31 miles of historic railway, trains on this route can reach speeds of up to 100 mph, with average journey times around 50 minutes. Despite the short duration, there are notable views and landmarks if you choose your seat wisely.
The scenic side
Key landmarks
- Old Trafford Stadium: The iconic home of Manchester United is visible shortly after departure on the left-hand side.
- Sankey Viaduct: This Grade I-listed structure near Newton-le-Willows is a striking reminder of Victorian engineering heritage.
- Edge Hill cutting: A dramatic sandstone cutting marking Liverpool’s outskirts, leading into historic tunnels beneath the city.
Arriving at Liverpool Lime Street
Welcoming over 16 million passengers each year, Liverpool Lime Street station is the world’s oldest grand terminus still in operation. Once you arrive, the city centre is just minutes away on foot.
The correct exit
- Main concourse (Lime Street exit): Leads directly onto Lime Street, ideal for St George’s Hall, theatres, and central shopping areas.
- Skellorn Street exit: It is located to the right of the concourse and is the easiest route to the taxi rank and short-stay car park.
- Lord Nelson Street exit: Best for nearby hotels, including budget options, situated close to Platform 1.
Onward travel
- Merseyrail underground: Accessed via escalators from the concourse, providing fast links to James Street, the Wirral, and waterfront destinations.
- Local buses: Depart from stops on Lime Street and nearby Queen Square Bus Station, serving areas across Liverpool, including stadium routes.
- Taxis and ride-hailing: Black cabs queue at the Skellorn Street rank, while app-based pickups are directed to nearby side streets.
- Regional rail: Connections to destinations like Chester or Southport are available via Merseyrail or Northern services at the station.
Walkability
From Lime Street, you can reach Liverpool ONE in under 10 minutes, while cultural landmarks like St George’s Hall and the Walker Art Gallery are just a short stroll away. Even the Royal Albert Dock is accessible within 15–20 minutes on foot, making onward travel optional for many visitors.
FAQ
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How much is a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street?
Tickets from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street typically cost €13.16, but can be as cheap as €4.77 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street?
The journey should take, on average, 53m, though it can be as quick as 46m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street?
Yes, there is a direct train between Manchester Piccadilly and Liverpool Lime Street. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street?
You can typically book tickets from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street trains offer Wi-Fi?
Although WiFi is becoming increasingly present on rail services, it can still depend on who provides your specific route. For instance, Merseyrail and older Northern models do not offer WiFi currently; all other providers do, however.
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How far is Manchester Piccadilly from Liverpool Lime Street?
The distance between Manchester Piccadilly and Liverpool Lime Street is approximately 31 miles (50km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street?
There is 43 train running from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my tickets be refunded or changed?
In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime and Off-Peak tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.
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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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