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Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket prices

Travelling from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly by train? Find fares from as low as £13.10. 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

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On Wed 23

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    Thu17Sep
  • £24.60󰄽
    Fri18Sep
  • £15.00󰄽
    Sat19Sep
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    Sun20Sep
  • £15.80󰄽
    Mon21Sep
  • £15.00󰄽
    Tue22Sep
  • Wed23Sep

Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train timetable

Travelling from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly, the fastest train takes 1h 50m with an average travel time of 2h 6m. 26 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:21 and the last at 23:04. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

21:18

Nottingham
2h 12m, 1 change

23:30

Manchester Piccadilly
East Midlands Railway
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21:36

Nottingham
3h 1m, 2 change

00:37

Manchester Piccadilly
East Midlands Railway
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23:04

Nottingham
8h 1m, 2 change

07:05

Manchester Piccadilly
East Midlands Railway
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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.

Price
From £13.10
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
57 miles (92km)
Journey time
1h 50m
First train
05:21
Last train
23:04
Frequency
26

East Midlands Railway trains from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly

By Rosaline Nancy Kargbo | Updated June 26, 2026
As the sole operator of direct Nottingham to Manchester trains, East Midlands Railway (EMR) offers a reliable hourly service to the vibrant northern city. You’ll be in the heart of Manchester in just 1 hour and 50 minutes.

How much luggage is permitted on East Midlands Railway trains?

EMR allows one large suitcase (90 x 70 x 30 centimetres max.) and either a medium cabin-sized bag or an item of hand luggage per passenger.

Are refreshments served on the Nottingham to Manchester train?

No - EMR doesn’t typically provide a trolley service on this route. There are several food options at Nottingham station.

What are East Midlands Railway Standard Class carriages like?

Standard Class coaches include a range of facilities for a pleasant trip. Relax on board with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi access and power sockets to charge your devices.

Is Nottingham to Manchester First Class accommodation available?

The Nottingham to Manchester train doesn’t have any First Class carriages or services.

When are the first and last trains from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly?

The first train from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly departs at 05:21 from Monday to Saturday and 08:30 on Sunday. Catch the last train at 19:45 on weekdays, 19:38 on Saturdays and 19:45 on Sundays.

Train travel from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly

Easily journey from the home of Robin Hood to the cultural powerhouse, Manchester, when you opt for the train. We’ve detailed how to make the 58-mile (93-kilometre) trip seamless.

Departing from Nottingham

Just a 15-minute walk from the city centre and three minutes from the Broadmarsh bus station, you’ll have no trouble reaching Nottingham station. The busy interchange is also directly linked to the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram network.

  • Platform guide: Nottingham station has seven rail platforms, with most further divided into three zones, such as platform 1A, 1B and 1C. Platform 2 is a short single platform, while platform 5 is separated into two zones, 5A and 5B. Trains to Manchester Piccadilly tend to stop at platform 3B. Check the boards and listen out for any announcements.
  • Where to stock up on refreshments: Catering isn’t typically available on board. Pop to one of the station outlets - from Costa to the Co-op - for a pre-train meal or snacks for the journey.

On board trains from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly

Enjoy the trip to Manchester to the fullest by spotting the best sights on the route.

  • Scenery from the window: The journey from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly promises epic views. Take in natural beauty, including rivers, meadows and the Avenue Washlands, from the comfort of your seat. After departing Sheffield, you’ll come across the magnificent Hope Valley and rolling hills near Edale in the Peak District - the highlight of the train ride.
  • Best seats in the house: Snap up seating on the left side in the direction of travel for expansive views of the rural landscape.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

The Nottingham to Manchester train conveniently serves Manchester Piccadilly station, seamlessly linked to the rest of the city and other UK destinations. Navigate the second-busiest station outside the capital like a pro.

  • Piccadilly Station Approach exit: Only ten minutes away from the city centre, the main exit also leads to bus stops on Station Approach or London Road. Pick up or lock your bike at the bicycle parking area.
  • Fairfield Street exit: Take the lift or escalators down to the lower level for more buses, the Metrolink tram and the taxi rank. The exit is the most convenient for reaching the University of Manchester.
  • Local transport: Manchester city centre is entirely walkable. If you have bulky luggage or are travelling to surrounding areas, you can hop on a Bee Network bus or Metrolink tram (Blue or Yellow line) with ease.
  • Free bus transfers: Enjoy free travel on not one, but two bus routes from Manchester Piccadilly. Route 1 serves Spinningfields and Deansgate’s cultural venues, shops and restaurants, as well as Central coach station. Route 2 buses take passengers directly to the Medieval Quarter, Chinatown and the Royal Exchange.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Why book Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly trains with TrainPal?

  • Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?

    TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly start from just £13.10 on TrainPal.

  • Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?

    TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast on the Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.

Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly train travel guide

The train journey from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Nottingham, you can get to Manchester Piccadilly in just 1h 50m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average fare from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly is approximately £13.10, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.

How do I find the best train route from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find the best train route from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly.

What is the fastest train from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly?

The quickest train journey from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly takes 1h 50m . 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 Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly. 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 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?

To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey

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 route from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly 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

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 Piccadilly route?

The Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly route is operated by East Midlands Railway. 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

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • Bicycle

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.

  • 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.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • 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

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?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated 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.