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  3. Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly

Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket prices

Travelling from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly by train? Find fares from as low as €4.37. 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

€4.37󰄽

On Sun 24 May

  • €8.97󰄽
    Wed20 May
  • €8.97󰄽
    Thu21 May
  • €8.97󰄽
    Fri22 May
  • €8.25󰄽
    Sat23 May
  • Sun24 May
  • €8.25󰄽
    Mon25 May
  • €7.52󰄽
    Tue26 May

Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train timetable

From Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly, take the fastest train in 36m, typically 51m. Daily, 68 trains depart from Preston (Lancs), with the first at 05:25 and the last at 23:49. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

10:47

Lancs
39m, Direct

11:26

Manchester Piccadilly
TransPennine Express
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10:52

Lancs
53m, Direct

11:45

Manchester Piccadilly
Northern
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11:11

Lancs
47m, Direct

11:58

Manchester Piccadilly
Northern
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11:20

Lancs
56m, Direct

12:16

Manchester Piccadilly
Northern
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11:50

Lancs
36m, Direct

12:26

Manchester Piccadilly
TransPennine Express
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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.

Price
From €4.37
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
27 miles (44km)
Journey time
36m
First train
05:25
Last train
23:49
Frequency
68

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

The train journey from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Preston (Lancs), you can get to Manchester Piccadilly in just 36m, 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 Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?

The average fare from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly is approximately €4.37, 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 Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly.

What is the fastest train from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?

The fastest train journey time from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly is 36m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.

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, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

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

Are Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Preston (Lancs) 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?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

Do Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Preston (Lancs) 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?

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

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

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

Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.

Which train companies operate the Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly route?

The route from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly is operated by Northern. 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

  • 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.

  • 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

    Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 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 Preston (Lancs) 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?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.