Manchester Victoria to Leeds Trains From £2.00*

Take a direct Northern train from Manchester Victoria to Leeds in just under an hour and a half. It’s an affordable, hassle-free way to travel between these great northern cities. 

This Manchester to Leeds route offers scenic views of the Calder Valley and the edge of the Peak District, passing through historic market towns en route.

Northern operates intercity services throughout northern England and the Midlands, linking key destinations including Manchester, Leeds, York, Sheffield, and Newcastle.

Departing from Manchester Victoria

Manchester Victoria is centrally located on Victoria Station Approach, on the northern edge of Manchester city centre, right next to the Manchester Arena and within walking distance of many major attractions. 

With step-free access to all platforms, Manchester Victoria has accessible ticket machines, waiting rooms, live service updates, and baby changing facilities. The station is operated by Northern, and is well integrated with the city's public transport, including Metrolink tram services, local buses, and a nearby taxi rank, making it a convenient gateway to destinations all across the region.

Manchester Victoria station is served by both TransPennine Express and Northern services, connecting passengers to major cities east and west, including Liverpool Lime Street, Wigan, Chester, Manchester Airport, Huddersfield, Leeds, Hull and Newcastle.

Main stops

Travelling from Manchester to Leeds with Transpennine Express typically includes stops like Stalybridge and Huddersfield. Northern services pass through many stations including Rochdale, Hebden Bridge, Bradford, Brighouse, Mirfield and Dewsbury. Actual stations served vary depending on the service.

Arriving at Leeds Station

Arriving at Leeds Station, you’ll find yourself within easy reach of a city buzzing with culture, history, and style. Exit onto Wellington Street and after just a ten-minute walk you’ll arrive at one of Europe’s largest markets, the colourful Kirkgate Market, which together with the ornate shopping arcades of the Victoria Quarter, blends Victorian elegance with great shopping.

Discover more neoclassical landmarks such as Leeds Town Hall and City Square, or the modern Royal Armouries Museum, which showcases centuries of military history and is located on the scenic waterfront. You can also explore Kirkstall Abbey and the Henry Moore Institute, or head to the Corn Exchange area, where fantastic dining, independent galleries, and live music venues bring Leeds’ creative spirit to life.

TransPennine Express and Northern train classes 

• Standard Class: TransPennine Express Manchester to Leeds trains in Standard Class offer free Wi-Fi on selected services, plug sockets at table seats, and there are snacks and drinks available on board. There is no restaurant car on board Northern trains.
• First Class: Travelling Manchester to Leeds First Class with TransPennine Express ensures spacious reclining seats, extra legroom, free Wi-Fi, and power at every seat, as well as complementary drinks and snacks on many services. Weekend upgrades start from just £10. There is no First Class on Northern trains.

TransPennine Express and Northern train travel advice

To make sure you can just sit back and relax on your journey from Manchester Victoria to Leeds station, here’s all the information you might need, including luggage allowance, storage facilities, travelling with children and pets, and travel assistance.

• Luggage: On TransPennine Express services, you may travel with up to three items, such as suitcases, backpacks, and carry-on bags, free of charge. There are no limits on Northern services on how much luggage you can bring with you. Be sure to stow items in luggage racks, overhead spaces, or under seats to avoid blocking aisles or doorways.
• Bicycles: Bikes are welcome onboard both services, and travel free of charge. On TransPennine Express services, an advance reservation is required, as space is limited. On Northern services, there are spaces for two bikes, which are allotted on a first come first served basis. Folding bikes can be folded and stowed as normal luggage, while e-scooters are not permitted on either service.
• Children: On both TransPennine Express and Northern services, children under 5 travel for free, and kids aged between 5–15 are eligible for a 50% discount. 16- and 17-year-olds can also enjoy half-price fares with a 16–17 Saver railcard. Family-friendly facilities such as baby-changing areas and accessible seating are available at many stations and on select trains.
• Pets: On both services, travellers can bring up to two small pets for free. Dogs must be on a lead and other small animals must be transported in a secure carrier. Pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant cars.
• Passenger Assist: Passengers with reduced mobility or other needs can request assistance via Passenger Assist when booking, to reserve wheelchair spaces or receive help boarding or navigating stations. Alternatively, you can also ask at staffed stations on the day.

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