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Manchester to Preston (Lancs) train ticket prices
€4.33
On Thu 19 Feb
Manchester to Preston (Lancs) train timetable
The journey from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) on the fastest train in 36m, usually 47m. Each day, 53 trains leave from Manchester, starting at 00:09 and ending at 23:38. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
14:39 Deansgate | 46m, Direct | 15:25 Preston (Lancs) | Northern | Find tickets |
15:03 Deansgate | 40m, Direct | 15:43 Preston (Lancs) | Northern | Find tickets |
15:07 Deansgate | 51m, Direct | 15:58 Preston (Lancs) | Northern | Find tickets |
15:39 Deansgate | 46m, Direct | 16:25 Preston (Lancs) | Northern | Find tickets |
16:03 Deansgate | 40m, Direct | 16:43 Preston (Lancs) | Northern | 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
Travelling by train from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Manchester, you can reach Preston (Lancs) in just 36m, 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 to Preston (Lancs)?
Ticket prices from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) average around €4.33, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
What is the best way to travel from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) by train?
What is the fastest train from Manchester to Preston (Lancs)?
The quickest train journey from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) takes 36m . 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 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
Are Manchester to Preston (Lancs) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Manchester to Preston (Lancs) trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
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.
Do Manchester to Preston (Lancs) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Manchester to Preston (Lancs) 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?
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.
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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Manchester to Preston (Lancs) route?
The Manchester to Preston (Lancs) route is operated by Avanti West Coast. 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
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized 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
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
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its 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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