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Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket prices
€2.42
On Thu 01 Jan
Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train timetable
Travelling from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly, the fastest train takes 35m with an average travel time of 51m. 69 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:25 and the last at 23:49. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
19:24 Lancs | 51m, Direct | 20:15 Manchester Piccadilly | Northern | Find tickets |
19:48 Lancs | 40m, Direct | 20:28 Manchester Piccadilly | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
19:49 Lancs | 56m, Direct | 20:45 Manchester Piccadilly | Northern | Find tickets |
20:11 Lancs | 47m, Direct | 20:58 Manchester Piccadilly | Northern | Find tickets |
20:24 Lancs | 51m, Direct | 21:15 Manchester Piccadilly | Northern | Find tickets |
Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Preston (Lancs) 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.
Northern: Preston to Manchester Piccadilly trains
Sit back and relax on a train journey from Preston to Manchester Piccadilly. Northern services take you to a central location in just 45 minutes on average. Up to four trains run an hour, zooming through the North’s urban and industrial landscapes.
Northern operates a large majority of trains in the North of England, calling at over 500 stations. Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Runcorn are some of its destinations.
Departing from Preston
The Preston to Manchester train departs from Preston station, located ten minutes away from the lively city centre. Getting to the station couldn’t be easier, with a number of local buses stopping nearby. Cabs can drop passengers off on Fishergate Road or Butler Street.
Other direct rail services take passengers to York, Carlisle, Edinburgh and London. Trains are operated by Northern, Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express.
Main stops
Stops on the route from Preston to Manchester Piccadilly may vary depending on the train operator and time. Trains typically call at Chorley, Bolton and Manchester Oxford Road.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly
Hopping on a Preston to Manchester train brings you to Manchester Piccadilly station, a major transport interchange. It’s only a 15-minute walk away from the city centre, and onward travel doesn’t have to cost a penny. Both of Manchester’s free city buses stop at the station. Alternatively, you can take a Metrolink tram, which stops underground.
With a thriving arts scene, rich sporting culture and intriguing industrial history, it’s no wonder Manchester is a popular destination. Manchester Piccadilly station is within walking distance of the Alan Turing Memorial, the stunning Piccadilly Gardens and Manchester Art Gallery. Chinatown’s bakeries, shops and restaurants await just behind the gallery.
Services from Manchester Piccadilly run to/from all corners of the country. Northern, East Midlands Railway (EMR), CrossCountry and TransPennine Express are the primary train operators. Stations served include Glasgow Central, Basingstoke and Kendal.
Northern train classes
First Class accommodation isn’t currently provided by Northern. Its Standard Class coaches have comfortable seats and luggage storage areas (including overhead racks). Newly refurbished trains also offer free Wi-Fi. Fares tend to be available 12 weeks in advance, so book early to buy cheap train tickets.
Northern train travel advice
- Luggage: A reasonable amount of luggage is permitted per passenger. All items must be stowed either in the luggage racks or underneath your seat.
- Bicycles: Bike spaces cannot be reserved and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. E-scooters aren’t allowed.
- Children: Kids under 5 get free travel with an adult. Tickets are typically half price for 5–15-year-olds and 16–17 Saver Railcard holders. The Family and Friends Railcard also offers discounts.
- Pets: You can travel with up to two pets. They must stay off the seats and be in an enclosed carrier or on a lead.
- Passenger Assist: Northern staff can help you book assistance for your journey, from managing luggage to using wheelchair spaces. You can also get in touch with any queries.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train travel guide
Travelling by train from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Preston (Lancs), you can reach Manchester Piccadilly in just 35m, 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 Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?
The average ticket fare from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly is about €2.42, 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.
How do I find the best train route from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?
What is the fastest train from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?
The quickest train journey from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly takes 35m . 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 Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?
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?
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
How do I find Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train timetables?
While Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Preston (Lancs) 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?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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?
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 Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly route?
The Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly route is operated by Northern. 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
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly 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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