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Home > UK Train Journey > Manchester to Bristol Train

Manchester to Bristol train times

From Manchester to Bristol, take the fastest train in 2h 54m, typically 3h 6m. Daily, 46 trains depart from Manchester, with the first at 00:24 and the last at 22:03. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.

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Departs	Arrives	Status	Duration	Operator
05:11 Manchester Piccadilly	08:29 Bristol Parkway	On time	3h 18m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
06:03 Manchester Piccadilly	09:20 Bristol Parkway	On time	3h 17m	Avanti West Coast	Find tickets
06:27 Manchester Piccadilly	11:56 Bristol Temple Meads	On time	5h 29m	Transport for Wales	Find tickets
07:03 Manchester Piccadilly	10:01 Bristol Parkway	On time	2h 58m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
07:25 Manchester Piccadilly	10:20 Bristol Parkway	On time	2h 55m	CrossCountry	Find tickets

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Manchester to Bristol Train journey information

Plan your journey from Manchester to Bristol 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.

First train	00:24
Last train	22:03
Departure station	Manchester
Arrival station	Bristol
Distance	136 miles (219 km)
Journey time	From 2h 54m
Price	From £10.35
Train operators	Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway

CrossCountry: Manchester to Bristol trains

A direct journey from Manchester to Bristol takes approximately three hours on CrossCountry. The earliest train departs Manchester at approximately 8:26 am, while the last train leaves around 11 pm.

On your way, you’ll have a chance to survey the beautiful English countryside as you ride down through Greater Manchester, the Midlands, and through the splendidly endearing Cotswolds before pulling into Bristol.

CrossCountry operates a comprehensive network of train services that connect towns and cities up and down the UK mainland.

Departing from Manchester Picadilly

Manchester Piccadilly is Manchester’s busiest train station and is a key interchange for tourists and commuters alike. It’s very easy to find, however. Located right in Manchester City Centre, it’s serviced by Metrolink trams, buses, and taxis. Other train stations like Victoria and Oxford Road, are only a 25-minute walk, too.

Piccadilly provides various train services from all over the country, such as TransPennine Express, Northern, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, and Avanti West Coast. It also connects to the Manchester Airport shuttle train, making it an ideal starting point for your journey from Manchester to Bristol.

Main stops

Between Manchester Piccadilly and Bristol Parkway, there are several key stops. These typically include: Stockport, Macclesfield, Stoke-on-Trent, and Stafford.

Please note that the stops can occasionally vary due to train schedules or unforeseen events such as technical faults or adverse weather conditions. To ensure a smooth journey, it's advisable to verify your route prior to booking your tickets.

Arriving at Bristol Parkway

Bristol Parkway is located in Stoke Gifford, approximately 5 miles north of Bristol city centre. The station is well-serviced by public transport, with a taxi rank and bus stops conveniently situated nearby for easy access to the surrounding areas. Bristol Parkway also offers secure bike storage and long-term car parking facilities for travelers.

CrossCountry provides services to and from Manchester Piccadilly, while Great Western Railway operates routes from Bristol Parkway to destinations such as London Paddington, Cardiff, and beyond.

While visiting the area, you can explore nearby attractions in Bristol, including the famous street art by Banksy and Brunel’s SS Great Britain, a museum dedicated to one of Britain’s most renowned engineers and his significant contributions to maritime history.

CrossCountry train classes

Standard Class: Onboard Wi-Fi, charging points, and tables. Snacks and drinks are available from the onboard shop.
First Class: Manchester to Bristol First Class tickets provide a more spacious and comfortable journey with larger seats and complimentary refreshments.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Luggage: A maximum of three items: one small item, one medium-sized bag, and one large suitcase.
Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small pets are free of charge. They must be well-behaved and do not disturb other passengers. Two pets per passenger.
Bicycles: Bicycle reservations are required before traveling.
Children: Children receive cheaper tickets. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together.
Passenger Assist: Provide assistance at stations and on trains, or during transfers, help with luggage, offer discounts for disabled passengers, and other services.

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

Manchester to Bristol train travel guide

The train journey from Manchester to Bristol combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Manchester, you can get to Bristol in just 2h 54m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

1. Where can I buy the cheapest train tickets from Manchester to Bristol?

Want to spend less on the journey from Manchester to Bristol? TrainPal can help: choose a Railcard, Season Tickets, or split tickets. Book in advance, travel off-peak, and use discount codes for extra savings. Explore more options for cheap train tickets in the UK.

2. How do I find the best train route from Manchester to Bristol?

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 Manchester to Bristol.

3. What is the fastest train from Manchester to Bristol?

The fastest train journey time from Manchester to Bristol is 2h 54m . 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.

4. Are there direct trains from Manchester to Bristol?

Yes, there are direct trains from Manchester to Bristol. These direct routes eliminate the need for transfers, making your journey quicker and more convenient. You can check the train timetable on TrainPal to find the best options for your travel schedule.

5. What are the main train operating companies from Manchester to Bristol?

Travelling from Manchester to Bristol, the primary train operator is Avanti West Coast. We also allow you to compare live schedules and services from other train companies. We aim to help you book cheap train tickets and ensure a cost-effective and relaxed journey.

6. How far in advance can I book UK train tickets?

Book cheap train tickets on the TrainPal 12 weeks in advance for the best discounts. Save more with Split Tickets or a Railcard, and explore more destinations across the UK for less!

Check timetables and during the journey

1. How do I find Manchester to Bristol train timetables?

Manchester to Bristol 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.

2. How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

3. Do Manchester to Bristol trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Manchester to Bristol 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.

4. 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.

Other things you might be interested

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

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

2. 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.

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

Without

Buy Senior Railcard

† Railcards offer discounted train tickets, with various types based on age and number of travellers. Enjoy up to 1/3 off for a cheaper journey. The actual price will vary based on factors such as the train service, time, and ticket availability.

Compensation and refunds

Trainpal makes it easy to handle travel changes, ticket refunds, and Delay Repay requests.

Change your itinerary or get a refund: Visit our Ticket Refunds and Changes page.
Check for train delays or interruptions: Visit our train Delays and Disruptions page or UK Rail Strike page.

Need help? Feel free to contact us!

How to buy cheap Manchester to Bristol train tickets

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

Split tickets

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Book in advance

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

Off-Peak train tickets

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

Use a Railcard

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

Save with Season Tickets

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

Travel in groups

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

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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.

** Save an average of 73% by combining Advance Ticket savings of 73% with an additional 30% through split tickets. These savings apply to Advance fares booked at least one week before travel, excluding Anytime fares purchased on the day of travel. Availability may vary by route and may not be combined with other offers.

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