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Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train times
The journey from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly on the fastest train in 35 minutes, usually 51 minutes. Each day, 69 trains leave from Preston (Lancs), starting at 05:25 and ending at 23:49. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:12 Preston (Lancs) | 42 minutes, Direct | 21:54 Manchester Piccadilly | Northern | Find tickets |
21:21 Preston (Lancs) | 58 minutes, Direct | 22:19 Manchester Piccadilly | Northern | Find tickets |
21:28 Preston (Lancs) | 39 minutes, Direct | 22:07 Manchester Piccadilly | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
22:15 Preston (Lancs) | 41 minutes, Direct | 22:56 Manchester Piccadilly | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
22:21 Preston (Lancs) | 57 minutes, Direct | 23:18 Manchester Piccadilly | Northern | Find tickets |
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Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly Train journey information
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.
First train
05:25
Last train
23:49
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
35 minutes
Distance
27 miles (44km)
Price
From £2.00
Train operators
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
Taking the train from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Preston (Lancs), you can arrive at Manchester Piccadilly in just 35 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
1. How can I find cheap train tickets from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?
To find discounted train tickets, use Railcards, book in advance, and travel off-peak. Group travel with friends or family can also save money. Frequent travellers should consider Season Tickets. TrainPal offers cheaper options through split tickets and discount codes. Learn more about buying cheap train tickets in the UK.
2. What is the best way to travel from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly by train?
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 Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly.
3. What is the best way to travel from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly by train?
The quickest train journey from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly takes 35 minutes . 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.
4. Are there direct trains from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly?
No, there are no direct trains from Preston (Lancs) 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
Check timetables and during the journey
1. How do I find Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly train timetables?
Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
2. 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.
3. Do Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
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4. 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.
Other things you might be interested
1. Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Yes, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers
2. 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.
3. 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.
Save 1/3 with Railcards† from Preston (Lancs) to Manchester Piccadilly
Family & Friends Railcard
£2.87
With Family & Friends Railcard
£4.31
Without
How to buy cheap Preston (Lancs) 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.
* By combining Advance Ticket offers with split tickets, you’ll get lower fares when you book at least one week before travel (excluding Anytime fares bought on the day of travel). Availability depends on the specific route and cannot be combined with other promotions.
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