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Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket prices
£13.80
On Fri 13 Feb
Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train timetable
From Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly, take the fastest train in 1h 50m, typically 2h 6m. Daily, 36 trains depart from Nottingham, with the first at 05:21 and the last at 23:42. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
18:45 Nottingham | 1h 47m, Direct | 20:32 Manchester Piccadilly | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
19:45 Nottingham | 1h 48m, Direct | 21:33 Manchester Piccadilly | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
19:59 Nottingham | 2h 8m, 2 change | 22:07 Manchester Piccadilly | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
20:15 Nottingham | 2h 5m, 2 change | 22:20 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
20:17 Nottingham | 2h 56m, 1 change | 23:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Northern | Find tickets |
Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly 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.
East Midlands Railway: Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly trains
On average, traveling directly between Nottingham and Manchester Piccadilly takes just under two hours. With up to 36 trains running per day, Manchester City Centre is just a stone’s throw away.
On your journey, you’ll pass everything from historic market towns to bustling cities and skirt around the edges of the stunning Peak District before arriving at Manchester Piccadilly.
East Midlands Railway connects the Midlands with the rest of the UK and beyond. It joins towns and cities in the Midlands with other major UK destinations such as London and Manchester. Plus, it even connects the UK to the rest of Europe, running a direct route between Nottingham and London St Pancras International.
Departing from Nottingham
Nottingham train station is located between Queen’s Road and Arkwright Street, right in the city centre, and is managed and operated by East Midlands Railway. Due to its central location, it’s easy to get to and from Nottingham train station by bus, taxi, and several other transport services.
Main stops
The great news is that there are usually only five stops between Nottingham and Manchester Piccadilly. These are at Ilkeston, Alfreton, Chesterfield, Sheffield, and Stockport before arriving at Manchester Piccadilly, which then goes onto Manchester Oxford Road station afterwards.
It’s always worth considering that this might be subject to change depending on circumstances like the weather or engineering works.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly
The Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train first stops at one of the UK’s most prominent and well-connected train stations, Manchester Piccadilly. Located in the city’s southeast, it’s highly accessible, with buses, coaches, taxis, and Metrolink trams nearby. Additionally, purchasing a discounted ‘Plusbus’ ticket along with your train ticket allows for unlimited travel throughout the city.
After Manchester Piccadilly, the train takes you to Oxford Road station in 5 minutes, which offers excellent connections to the rest of the city as it is located in the city center near Hulme. If you’re planning to travel further north to destinations such as York or Newcastle, Manchester Victoria train station is just a 25-minute walk away.
There’s lots to do around Manchester Piccadilly. It’s just a five-minute walk from the station into the city centre, which houses a great assortment of things to see, eat, and do. Including the Arndale Centre and its surrounding shops, more independent options in the nearby Northern Quarter, or visiting the Football Museum near the entertainment-focused Printworks.
East Midlands Railway train classes
- Standard Class: Standard Class is the most popular and budget-friendly choice, and it offers comfortable seating. Passengers also benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi and convenient plug sockets for all devices.
- First Class: East Midlands Railway does not offer a Nottingham to Manchester First Class ticket. As they are only available on services between Nottingham and London St Pancras International.
If you ever want to upgrade your train fare, it’s best to buy cheap train tickets in advance through services like TrainPal.
East Midlands Railway 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: Reservations are highly recommended, as each train has only two cycle spaces. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book early.
- 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 with journey planning, ticket selection, fare reductions, and train seat bookings. We provide help with boarding, alighting, luggage handling, and transferring between trains.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train travel guide
Taking the train from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Nottingham, you can arrive at Manchester Piccadilly in just 1h 50m, 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 Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
The average ticket fare from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly is about £13.80, 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.
What is the best way to travel from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly by train?
What is the fastest train from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
The fastest train journey time from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly is 1h 50m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
No, there are no direct trains from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly. 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 Piccadilly?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
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 Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train timetables?
Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly 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.
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 Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly 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?
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 Piccadilly route?
The route from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly is operated by Avanti West Coast. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
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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
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals 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 Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train tickets

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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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