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Manchester to Preston (Lancs) train ticket prices
€8.20
On Wed 08 Apr
Manchester to Preston (Lancs) train timetable
From Manchester to Preston (Lancs), take the fastest train in 31m, typically 48m. Daily, 30 trains depart from Manchester, with the first at 08:05 and the last at 23:07. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
08:05 Deansgate | 48m, Direct | 08:53 Lancs | Northern | Find tickets |
09:08 Deansgate | 49m, Direct | 09:57 Lancs | Northern | Find tickets |
09:28 Manchester Oxford Road | 36m, Direct | 10:04 Lancs | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
09:45 Manchester Victoria | 1h 56m, 1 change | 11:41 Lancs | Northern | Find tickets |
10:30 Manchester Oxford Road | 34m, Direct | 11:04 Lancs | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
Manchester to Preston (Lancs) train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) 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.
TransPennine Express: Manchester to Preston(Lancs) trains
Manchester and Preston(Lancs) are not far from each other; they are only 27 miles apart. It takes around 35 minutes to travel direct with TransPennine Express, and a little longer with Northern.
As you travel, you’ll pass from the post-industrial metropolis of Manchester and Greater Manchester up into the contrasting gentle hills and rolling valleys of Lancashire.
TransPennine Express offers regional and long-distance intercity services designed to connect the key economic centres of Northern England and Scotland, such as Newcastle, Manchester, Leeds, and Glasgow.
Departing from Manchester Oxford Road
Manchester Oxford Road is located along Station Approach, between Whitworth Street West and Oxford Street. It’s the third busiest station in Manchester, and serves the western line towards Preston, Warrington, Chester, and Liverpool.
You can reach both Manchester Oxford Road and Manchester Piccadilly stations by bus, taxi, or Metrolink. Additionally, purchasing a discounted ‘Plusbus’ ticket along with your train ticket allows for unlimited travel throughout the city.
Main stops
When travelling with TransPennine Express from Oxford Road, there is only one stop between Manchester and Preston, Bolton.
These can be subject to changes like bad weather or scheduling, however. So, it’s best to check before you travel. It’s best to book early to avoid disappointment. You can buy cheap train tickets early with sites like TrainPal.
Arriving at Preston(Lancs)
Preston train station can be found on Butler Street across the road from Fishergate Shopping Centre in the heart of the city. The station is served by buses and taxis and has a large car park with 1025 spaces seven days a week.
Many train services operate through Preston, including Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, and Northern, which is excellent for ongoing connections.
Preston is filled with interesting things to do, especially if you enjoy museums. From the Harris Museum, Lancashire Infantry Museum, all the way to the Ribble Steam Railway & Museum it’s a history-lovers delight.
TransPennine Express train classes
- Standard Class: TransPennine Express Standard Class offers walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and charging plugs for your devices.
- First Class: The Manchester 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 Express 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: Manchester to Preston(Lancs) trains
Traveling from Manchester to Preston with Northern is a quick and easy journey, taking approximately 35 to 45 minutes. Manchester, a vibrant city known for its rich industrial heritage and cultural scene, offers excellent transport links to the surrounding areas, including Preston.
As you travel to Preston, you'll pass through the picturesque landscapes of Lancashire, with views of rolling hills, charming towns, and lush green fields. The route provides a scenic escape from the bustling city life of Manchester.
Northern offers frequent services throughout the day, ensuring convenient travel options for commuters and visitors alike heading to Preston, a city known for its historical landmarks and thriving community.
Departing from Deansgate
You can also get from Manchester to Preston via Deansgate train station with Northern.
Located in the city's South West, this area is near the intersection of Castlefield, Deansgate, and Whitworth Street West. Deansgate is exclusively managed by Northern, with the station providing services only to destinations in the North West of England, including Liverpool Lime Street and Lancaster.
Main stops
If you are travelling from Deansgate with Northern, there are nine stops. These are: Salford Crescent, Bolton, Lostock, Horwich Parkway, Blackrod, Adlington, Chorley, Buckshaw Parkway, and Leyland.
These can be subject to changes like bad weather or scheduling, however. So, it’s best to check before you travel.
Arriving at Preston(Lancs)
Preston train station can be found on Butler Street across the road from Fishergate Shopping Centre in the heart of the city. The station is served by buses and taxis and has a large car park with 1025 spaces seven days a week.
Many train services operate through Preston, including Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, and Northern, which is excellent for ongoing connections.
Preston is filled with interesting things to do, especially if you enjoy museums. From the Harris Museum, Lancashire Infantry Museum, all the way to the Ribble Steam Railway & Museum it’s a history-lovers delight.
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 any First Class sections on any of their 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.
Manchester to Preston (Lancs) train travel guide
Taking the train from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Manchester, you can arrive at Preston (Lancs) in just 31m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Manchester to Preston (Lancs)?
The average ticket fare from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) is about €8.20, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
How do I find the best train route from Manchester to Preston (Lancs)?
What is the fastest train from Manchester to Preston (Lancs)?
The fastest train journey time from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) is 31m . 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 Manchester to Preston (Lancs)?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Manchester to Preston (Lancs). Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Manchester to Preston (Lancs)?
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?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.
Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Manchester to Preston (Lancs) train timetables?
Manchester to Preston (Lancs) 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 to Preston (Lancs) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Manchester to Preston (Lancs) 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.
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
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?
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 Manchester to Preston (Lancs) route?
The Manchester to Preston (Lancs) route is operated by Northern. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the 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
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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Pets
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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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 Manchester to Preston (Lancs) 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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