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Home > UK Train Journey > Stafford to Manchester Train

Stafford to Manchester train ticket prices

For a train from Stafford to Manchester, Advance Tickets are available starting at £4.00*, with the average fare being £9.29. Find out about different ticket types and options by checking out our Advance Tickets, Off-Peak Train Tickets, Return Train Tickets, and Anytime Train Tickets. Explore more affordable choices in our UK cheap train ticket Guide!

Stafford to Manchester train times

The journey from Stafford to Manchester on the fastest train in 54m, usually 56m. Each day, 55 trains leave from Stafford, starting at 05:31 and ending at 23:59. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

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Departs	Arrives	Status	Duration	Operator
05:47 Stafford	07:23 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 36m	West Midlands Trains	Find tickets
06:33 Stafford	07:29 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	56m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
07:03 Stafford	07:59 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	56m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
07:34 Stafford	08:29 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	55m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
07:50 Stafford	08:45 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	55m	Avanti West Coast	Find tickets

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Stafford to Manchester Train journey information

Experience seamless journey planning from Stafford to Manchester. Explore the earliest and latest train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and pricing options to optimise your trip.

First train	05:31
Last train	23:59
Departure station	Stafford
Arrival station	Manchester
Distance	47 miles (75 km)
Journey time	From 54m
Price	From £4.00
Train operators	Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Northern

Avanti West Coast: Stafford to Manchester trains

It takes around fifty-five minutes to get from Stafford to Manchester with either Avanti West Coast or CrossCountry.

From Stafford, you’ll travel north up through Staffordshire and Cheshire before arriving in Greater Manchester. You’ll then head straight for Manchester Piccadilly in the heart of the city.

Avanti West Coast primarily operates services along the West Coast Mainline, providing reliable connections between major cities in England, Scotland, and Wales, including Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Liverpool.

Departing from Stafford

Stafford Station is located on Station Road, south west of the town centre beside Victoria Park.

Local taxis can drop you off at the station’s entrance, and local buses can also take you to the station from the town centre. Stafford Station has seventy-five car parking spaces that are operational all week long.

London Northwestern, Avanti West Coast, and CrossCountry all serve Stafford Station, operating services to Manchester, Liverpool Birmingham, Crewe, and London.

Main stops

There are three stations between Stafford and Manchester Piccadilly when travelling with Avanti West Coast. These are: Crewe, Wilmslow, and Stockport

As well there are three stations when travelling with CrossCountry: Stoke-on-Trent, Macclesfield, and Stockport.

These stops may change due to scheduling alterations or engineering work, so checking before you travel is advised.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

Manchester Piccadilly is a great station to arrive at because it’s a great launchpad to enjoy the rest of the city. There are so many cool things to do and plenty of public transport to take you there.

If you need to get to Oxford Road or Victoria Station, you can easily change at Manchester Piccadilly. Outside the station, the city’s tram network, local buses, and taxis take you across the city. All of these options can get you to places like Salford, the Trafford Centre, football grounds like the Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford, or the AO Arena.

If you’d prefer to walk, you’re only a few minutes from Piccadilly Gardens, at the very centre of Manchester. From there, you could walk to the Arndale Centre for some shopping, a bite to eat and a pint in the Northern Quarter or imbibe some culture at Manchester Art Gallery.

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Northern, and East Midlands Railway all operate routes from Manchester Piccadilly to destinations such as London Euston, Newcastle, Leeds, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

Avanti West Coast train classes

Standard Class: Avanti West Coast Standard Class offers walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and charging plugs for your devices.
First Class: A Stafford to Manchester First Class ticket with Avanti West Coast gives you access to more legroom, reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, complimentary food and drink, and First Class lounge access.

Avanti West Coast train travel advice

Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
Bicycles: Bikes can be stored free of charge, but space is limited. You must book a space for your bike before you travel.
Children: Under 5’s can travel for free. Children aged 5 to 15 can benefit from discounted tickets. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
Passenger Assist: Assist with boarding and alighting trains, book wheelchair space and seating, offer comprehensive rail information, and help with animals or pets.

CrossCountry: Stafford to Manchester trains

Traveling from Stafford to Manchester with CrossCountry takes approximately fifty-five minutes, offering a convenient option for reaching the city.

From Stafford, you'll journey north through the scenic counties of Staffordshire and Cheshire, ultimately arriving in Greater Manchester. The route culminates at Manchester Piccadilly, located in the bustling heart of the city.

CrossCountry operates an extensive network across the UK, connecting key cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Newcastle, and Edinburgh. Known for its comprehensive service, CrossCountry provides reliable travel options for both regional and long-distance journeys.

CrossCountry train classes

Standard Class: Onboard Wi-Fi, charging points, and tables. Snacks and drinks are available from the onboard shop.
First Class: A CrossCountry Stafford to Manchester First Class ticket provides a more spacious and comfortable journey with larger seats and complimentary refreshments.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Luggage: A maximum of three items: one small item, one medium-sized bag, and one large suitcase.
Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small pets are free of charge. They must be well-behaved and do not disturb other passengers. Two pets per passenger.
Bicycles: Bicycle reservations are required before travelling.
Children: Children receive cheaper tickets. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
Passenger Assist: Provide assistance at stations and on trains, or during transfers, help with luggage, offer discounts for disabled passengers, and other services.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Stafford to Manchester train travel guide

The train journey from Stafford to Manchester combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Stafford, you can get to Manchester in just 54m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

1. Where can I buy the cheapest train tickets from Stafford to Manchester?

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 Stafford to Manchester by train?

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 Stafford to Manchester.

3. What is the fastest train from Stafford to Manchester?

The fastest train journey time from Stafford to Manchester is 54m . Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.

4. Are there direct trains from Stafford to Manchester?

Yes, there are direct trains from Stafford to Manchester. These direct routes eliminate the need for transfers, making your journey quicker and more convenient. You can check the train timetable on TrainPal to find the best options for your travel schedule.

5. What are the main train operating companies from Stafford to Manchester?

Travelling from Stafford to Manchester, the primary train operator is Avanti West Coast. We also allow you to compare live schedules and services from other train companies. We aim to help you book cheap train tickets and ensure a cost-effective and relaxed journey.

6. How far in advance can I book UK train tickets?

In the UK, you can usually book train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This allows you to lock in the best prices and guarantee your seat, particularly during peak travel times. For certain routes, tickets might be available even sooner, so it's wise to consult TrainPal for the latest information.

Check timetables and during the journey

1. Are Stafford to Manchester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Stafford to Manchester 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.

2. How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.

3. Do Stafford to Manchester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Stafford to Manchester 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.

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. 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.

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?

Without

Buy Senior Railcard

† Railcards offer discounted train tickets, with various types based on age and number of travellers. Enjoy up to 1/3 off for a cheaper journey. The actual price will vary based on factors such as the train service, time, and ticket availability.

Compensation and refunds

Trainpal is here to help with all your travel needs, including changing plans, getting ticket refunds, and requesting Delay Repay.

Change your plans or get a refund: Head over to our Ticket Refunds and Changes page.
Check for train delays or interruptions: Visit our train Delays and Disruptions page or UK Rail Strike page.

If you need any assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

How to buy cheap Stafford to Manchester train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Split tickets

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Book in advance

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Off-Peak train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Use a Railcard

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Save with Season Tickets

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

Travel in groups

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.

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More train routes

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Stafford to Birmingham New Street	Manchester to Liverpool
Stafford to Manchester Piccadilly	Manchester to Edinburgh
Stafford to Wolverhampton	Manchester to Sheffield

* 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.

** Save an average of 73% by combining Advance Ticket savings of 73% with an additional 30% through split tickets. These savings apply to Advance fares booked at least one week before travel, excluding Anytime fares purchased on the day of travel. Availability may vary by route and may not be combined with other offers.

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Stafford to Manchester Trains From £4.00*

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