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Stansted Airport to Manchester train ticket prices
£9.10
On Thu 01 Jan
Stansted Airport to Manchester train timetable
Travelling from Stansted Airport to Manchester, the fastest train takes 3h 33m with an average travel time of 4h 40m. 103 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:30 and the last at 19:46. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
12:25 Stansted Airport | 4h 40m, 2 change | 17:05 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
12:25 Stansted Airport | 4h 54m, 1 change | 17:19 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
12:25 Stansted Airport | 5h 4m, 1 change | 17:29 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
12:28 Stansted Airport | 3h 37m, 1 change | 16:05 Manchester Piccadilly | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
12:43 Stansted Airport | 3h 36m, 1 change | 16:19 Manchester Piccadilly | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
Stansted Airport to Manchester train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Stansted Airport to Manchester 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.
Stansted Airport to Manchester train travel guide
The train journey from Stansted Airport to Manchester combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Stansted Airport, you can get to Manchester in just 3h 33m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Stansted Airport to Manchester?
Ticket prices from Stansted Airport to Manchester average around £9.10, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
How do I find the best train route from Stansted Airport to Manchester?
What is the fastest train from Stansted Airport to Manchester?
The fastest train journey time from Stansted Airport to Manchester is 3h 33m . 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 Stansted Airport to Manchester?
No, there are no direct trains from Stansted Airport to Manchester. 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
Is it worth taking a train from Stansted Airport to Manchester?
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?
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 Stansted Airport to Manchester train timetables?
While Stansted Airport to Manchester 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 Stansted Airport to Manchester 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 Stansted Airport to Manchester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Stansted Airport 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.
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?
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
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?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Stansted Airport to Manchester route?
The train from Stansted Airport to Manchester is operated by Avanti West Coast. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search 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
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.
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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
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Stansted Airport to Manchester 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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