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Sheffield to Preston train times and prices
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
£16.80
On Sat 24
Live timetable and departures
The journey from Sheffield to Preston on the fastest train in 1h 48m, usually 2h 43m. Each day, 10 trains leave from Sheffield, starting at 17:11 and ending at 18:22. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
18:11 Sheffield | 1h 54m, 1 change | 20:05 Preston | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
18:14 Sheffield | 2h 18m, 1 change | 20:32 Preston | Northern | Find tickets |
18:22 Sheffield | 3h 6m, 3 change | 21:28 Preston | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
18:42 Sheffield | 1h 50m, 1 change | 20:32 Preston | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
18:52 Sheffield | 2h 46m, 1 change | 21:38 Preston | Northern | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from Sheffield to Preston
- Northern
- TransPennine Express
- East Midlands Railway
Northern Trains is the UK's second-largest rail operator, carrying nearly 100 million passengers a year across Yorkshire and the Humber, the North West and the North East. Its network serves major regional centres including Manchester, Leeds and Newcastle, alongside commuter towns and rural destinations.
Its mixed-age fleet includes Class 195 diesel and Class 331 electric Civity trains, equipped with air conditioning, power sockets and free Wi-Fi. The operator is also pursuing plans to introduce up to 450 new electric, battery-electric, and multi-mode trains as part of its wider fleet renewal programme.
Standard
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Northern has no First Class, quiet coaches or onboard catering, so a little preparation before boarding can make a noticeable difference. If you are travelling from major stations such as Leeds or Manchester Piccadilly, buy food and drinks from the concourse before passing through the barriers."
"Onboard, Class 195 and Class 331 trains offer better overhead luggage clearance, while older regional trains have more limited rack space, making early boarding worthwhile if you have larger bags."
"Travelling with a bicycle requires similar planning because Northern carries bikes free of charge but does not accept reservations. Each train has space for two bikes on a first-come, first-served basis, so Off-Peak services are the more practical option."
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- 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.
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Children
- Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- 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
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Arriving in Preston
Top Things to Do:
Visit The Harris to admire its impressive architecture and discover Preston's art collections.
Wander through Avenham and Miller Parks for beautiful Victorian gardens and peaceful walks beside the River Ribble.
Browse Preston Markets for fresh local produce and a taste of the city's traditional market culture.
Ride the Ribble Steam Railway for a heritage train journey through Preston's historic docklands.
Popular Areas in Preston:
Fishergate, Winckley Square, Flag Market, Friargate, Preston Marina, Deepdale, Penwortham, Cannon Street
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Visiting Preston: Fancy seeing a little more of Lancashire? Preston makes a useful base for visiting the Ribble Valley, where you'll find picturesque villages and some excellent countryside walks. Clitheroe is particularly worth visiting for its historic castle and views towards Pendle Hill. You can even catch a bus from Preston, although hiring a car gives you more flexibility if you're planning to visit several villages in one day."
FAQ
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How much is a train from Sheffield to Preston?
Tickets from Sheffield to Preston typically cost £32.64, but can be as cheap as £16.80 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Sheffield to Preston?
The journey should take, on average, 2h 43m, though it can be as quick as 1h 48m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Sheffield to Preston?
There is no direct service between Sheffield and Preston. Instead, when browsing routes, you will see our recommendations for changeover stations that are the most convenient and time-efficient.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Sheffield to Preston?
You can typically book tickets from Sheffield to Preston up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Sheffield to Preston trains offer Wi-Fi?
Although WiFi is becoming increasingly present on rail services, it can still depend on who provides your specific route. For instance, Merseyrail and older Northern models do not offer WiFi currently; all other providers do, however.
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How far is Sheffield from Preston?
The distance between Sheffield and Preston is approximately 57 miles (92km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Sheffield to Preston?
There is 10 train running from Sheffield to Preston per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Sheffield to Preston?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my 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 and Off-Peak 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.
More train routes
* 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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