York to Manchester Piccadilly Trains From £11.90*

A direct train from York to Manchester Piccadilly takes around one hour and a half with TransPennine Express. Though they’re only 57 miles apart, the route between the two contrasting cities is a scenic one.

As you make your way from York to Manchester Piccadilly, you’ll pass everything from the Medieval walls of York, the gallant beauty of the Yorkshire countryside and modern UK cities like Leeds.

TransPennine Express provides regional and long-distance inter-city services aimed at linking the major economic hubs of Northern England and Scotland, including cities like Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

Departing from York

York station is conveniently right outside of York city centre, just outside its historic Medieval walls. Fittingly, it’s right beside the National Railway Museum, too. That’s because York is a major railway hub that connects the East and West coasts.

The station is located along Cinder Lane and is accessible by bus and taxi. It has a large commuter car park and bike storage facilities.

Main stops

There are usually eleven stops on the route from York to Manchester Piccadilly: Castleford, Normanton, Wakefield Kirkgate, Mirfield, Deighton, Huddersfield, Marsden, Greenfield, Mossley, and Stalybridge.

These stops might change due to unforeseen events, such as bad weather or planned engineering works. It’s best to check before you purchase your ticket or travel.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

The train from York to Manchester Piccadilly conveniently arrives at the city's most accessible train station. Located in the southeast of the city, it provides straightforward access to buses, taxis, and Metrolink trams. For onward rail connections, Manchester Victoria, Manchester Oxford Road, and Manchester Deansgate stations are in close proximity. Additionally, you can catch a direct train to Manchester Airport from Piccadilly, reaching the airport in just 15 minutes.

Manchester Piccadilly services other major UK destinations, including Newcastle, York, Sheffield, Leeds, and London Euston. Other major train franchises, including Northern, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, and CrossCountry, also operate from this station.

There’s plenty to explore around Manchester Piccadilly. To begin with, you'll find an array of vibrant bars, restaurants, and nightclubs in the area. There are vintage shops galore in the Northern Quarter, while the National Football Museum is fittingly located near the entertainment-centric venue, The Printworks.

TransPennine Express train classes

• Standard Class: TransPennine Express Standard Class offers walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and charging plugs for your devices.
• First Class: The York to Manchester First Class ticket with TransPennine Express will give you access to more legroom, reclining seats, free Wi-Fi and complimentary food and drink.

TransPennine Express 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 save 50% on their tickets. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
• Passenger Assist: Providing ramps for entering and exiting trains, luggage support, and station guidance, with help for stairs and provision of wheelchairs or buggies for covering greater distances.

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