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Nottingham to Manchester Airport train ticket prices

Travelling from Nottingham to Manchester Airport by train? Find fares from as low as £17.10. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

£17.10󰄽

On Sun 21 Jun

  • £22.70󰄽
    Thu18 Jun
  • £18.50󰄽
    Fri19 Jun
  • £17.40󰄽
    Sat20 Jun
  • Sun21 Jun
  • £18.50󰄽
    Mon22 Jun
  • £19.40󰄽
    Tue23 Jun
  • £19.00󰄽
    Wed24 Jun

Nottingham to Manchester Airport train timetable

From Nottingham to Manchester Airport, take the fastest train in 2h 15m, typically 2h 43m. Daily, 36 trains depart from Nottingham, with the first at 05:21 and the last at 23:20. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

05:21

Nottingham
2h 39m, 1 change

08:00

Manchester Airport
East Midlands Railway
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05:53

Nottingham
2h 43m, 2 change

08:36

Manchester Airport
East Midlands Railway
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06:30

Nottingham
2h 30m, 1 change

09:00

Manchester Airport
East Midlands Railway
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06:49

Nottingham
2h 47m, 2 change

09:36

Manchester Airport
East Midlands Railway
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07:45

Nottingham
2h 15m, 1 change

10:00

Manchester Airport
East Midlands Railway
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Nottingham to Manchester Airport train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Nottingham to Manchester Airport 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.

Price
From £17.10
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
54 miles (88km)
Journey time
2h 15m
First train
05:21
Last train
23:20
Frequency
36

East Midlands Railway and Northern: Nottingham to Manchester Airport trains

By Brenda Jude | Updated May 20, 2026
In only 2 hours and 14 minutes, you can travel from Nottingham to Manchester Airport with East Midlands Railway. This well-travelled route spans 54 miles, with 109 services operating daily. While not direct, a single, easy change, usually at Manchester Piccadilly, makes the journey straightforward. From there, Northern takes over, continuing the journey to Manchester Airport. Trains run from early morning, with the first departure at 05:21 and the last train at 23:30.
The route connects the East Midlands to the North West, passing through scenic countryside and major hubs like Sheffield.
East Midlands Railway connects London with key Midlands cities, including Nottingham, Leicester, and Sheffield. It extends north to Manchester and serves regional routes that link smaller towns and major airports. Its services range from Intercity trains on the Midland Main Line to local connections across the East Midlands.
Northern, operated by Northern Trains Limited, is the UK's second-largest train operator, running around 2,500 daily services to over 500 stations across northern England. It connects major cities, towns, and scenic areas in the North West, North East, and the East. Key destinations include Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Newcastle, Sheffield, York, and coastal towns like Blackpool and Scarborough.

Departing from Nottingham

Nottingham Station, the busiest in the East Midlands, is located in the heart of the city. It is located on Carrington Street and is easily accessible by tram, bus, taxi, or even direct coach services like Skylink Express to East Midlands Airport. The Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram network connects the station to key areas across the city. PLUSBUS tickets are valid on local trams, and taxis are readily available from multiple ranks nearby.
From Nottingham Station, East Midlands Railway operates frequent services to London St Pancras, Sheffield, Leicester, Derby, Manchester, and other key destinations. The station is also served by Northern Trains and CrossCountry, providing wider connections across the UK. EMR regional services link smaller towns across the East Midlands, while coach connections offer seamless access to East Midlands Airport.

Main stops

Travelling with East Midlands Railway from Nottingham to Manchester Airport involves a short connection at Manchester Piccadilly. Key stops along the EMR Intercity route include Sheffield before arriving at Manchester Piccadilly, where you transfer to a local train to the airport.

Arriving at Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport Station is just under 10 miles south of Manchester Piccadilly, perfectly situated for onward air travel. Opened in 1993 alongside Terminal 2, the station is integrated with the airport complex and connected to all terminals via a covered walkway. It also links with Manchester's Metrolink tram network, offering direct trams to the city centre and beyond.
Train services from Manchester Airport are operated primarily by Northern Rail and TransPennine Express, running at 10-minute intervals throughout the day. Key destinations include Manchester Piccadilly, London, York, Sheffield, and Liverpool.
For those with time to spare, the nearby Runway Visitor Park offers a unique spot to watch aircraft. Manchester's key landmarks, such as the Trafford Centre and Science and Industry Museum, are a short journey away by train or tram.

East Midlands Railway train classes

East Midlands Railway offers two travel classes: Standard and First Class. However, on the Nottingham to Manchester Airport route, only Standard Class is available, as this is served by EMR's regional fleet rather than its Intercity trains.
Standard Class on EMR regional trains includes two- and four-seat configurations, with tables and access to Wi-Fi and power sockets on selected services.
First Class includes extra legroom, quieter carriages, and complimentary refreshments. It is only available on EMR's London-bound Intercity services and is not part of the Nottingham to Manchester Airport route.

East Midlands Railway train travel advice

Travelling with EMR is straightforward and comfortable, but here are a few key tips to make your journey smoother:
  • Luggage: You're allowed one large item and one small bag. Store items in racks or designated spaces, and avoid blocking walkways or doors.
  • Bicycles: Non-folding bikes require booking and are subject to space availability. Folding bikes are treated as luggage and do not need a reservation.
  • Children: Kids aged 5 to 15 receive a 50% fare reduction. Under 5s travel free, and families can benefit from Family and Friends Railcard discounts.
  • Pets: You can bring up to two dogs or small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead and not occupy seats; other pets must be in carriers.
  • Passenger Assist: For assistance, book in advance by phone, through EMR's website, or via the Passenger Assist app. Support is available for boarding, mobility needs, and navigating stations.

Northern train classes

Northern operates Standard Class only, with no First Class available. Although lacking a First Class option, Northern's newer and refurbished trains provide modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and charging points across the fleet.

Northern travel advice

Here are some important tips and information to make your journey with Northern easier and more enjoyable:
  • Luggage: Passengers may bring up to three items, including one large suitcase, a cabin-sized bag, and a smaller handbag or backpack. All bags must be carried by the passenger and stored in overhead racks, under seats, or luggage areas without blocking aisles or doors.
  • Bicycles: Non-folding bikes travel free on a first-come, first-served basis with a maximum of two bikes per train. Folding bikes are treated as luggage and require no reservation. E-bikes are not permitted.
  • Children: Children under 5 travel free with a fare-paying adult and need no separate seat. Children between the ages of 5 and 15 qualify for half-price fares with a child ticket. Proof of age may be requested for older children.
  • Pets: Up to two small pets per passenger are allowed free if kept on a lead or in a rigid carrier, off seats, and without disturbing others.
  • Passenger Assist: Assistance can be booked in advance via the National Rail Passenger Assist website or app. It offers help such as boarding help, ramps, and guidance for those with mobility or sensory needs.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Nottingham to Manchester Airport train travel guide

Travelling by train from Nottingham to Manchester Airport is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Nottingham, you can reach Manchester Airport in just 2h 15m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Nottingham to Manchester Airport?

Ticket prices from Nottingham to Manchester Airport average around £17.10, 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 Nottingham to Manchester Airport by train?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Nottingham to Manchester Airport train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from Nottingham to Manchester Airport?

The quickest train journey from Nottingham to Manchester Airport takes 2h 15m . 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 Nottingham to Manchester Airport?

No, there are no direct trains from Nottingham to Manchester Airport. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip

Is it worth taking a train from Nottingham to Manchester Airport?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Nottingham to Manchester Airport train timetables?

While Nottingham to Manchester Airport 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 Nottingham to Manchester Airport 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?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

Do Nottingham to Manchester Airport trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Nottingham to Manchester Airport 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?

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?

First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

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.

Can UK train 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 Train Tickets and Off-Peak train 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.

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

Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone

Which train companies operate the Nottingham to Manchester Airport route?

The Nottingham to Manchester Airport 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

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Passenger assistance

    Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

How to buy cheap Nottingham to Manchester Airport train tickets

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

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

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

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

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

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

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

Your plans have changed?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.