London and Manchester are two of the UK’s best and brightest cities. Getting from one to the other will take just over two hours with Avanti West Coast.
You'll travel north on your way from London to Manchester, the de facto capital of Northern England. Bypassing the Midlands and Birmingham before heading through Cheshire into Greater Manchester.
Avanti West Coast primarily operates on the West Coast Mainline, reliably connecting major cities in England, Scotland, and Wales, including Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Liverpool.
Departing from London Euston
London Euston is in the Borough of Camden in North London, only half a mile from King’s Cross and St Pancras stations. Although it’s a busy station, it acts as the southern terminus of the West Coast Mainline and the country's busiest intercity passenger terminal, making it an ideal location to depart from as it’s incredibly well-connected.
For instance, the Northern and Victoria Lines connect Euston Station to the London Underground, and nearby Euston Square station further connects the station to the Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines. Euston Bus Station is next to the train station, and a taxi rank is located directly in front of the bus station, on the former Euston Square Gardens East site, beside Eversholt Street and Euston Road. This makes it incredibly easy to get to from wherever you are in London.
Many UK rail operators serve this station because it’s such a popular destination and a crucial rail link that connects the West to London. Caledonian Sleeper, London North Western Railway, the London Overground, West Midlands Trains, and Avanti West Coast all use this station.
Main stops
There are usually five stops between London Euston and Manchester Piccadilly: Milton Keynes Central, Rugby, Stoke-on-Trent, Macclesfield, and Stockport.
These may change depending on scheduling commitments, construction work, or poor weather. So, it’s worth double-checking before you travel, just to be certain.
If you want to buy cheap train tickets, it’s best to follow these rules: book your tickets early, use a Railcard to get a cheaper fare, and search TrainPal for the best deals.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly conveniently places you directly in Manchester City Centre. Close to Piccadilly Gardens, the Arndale Centre, Manchester Art Gallery, and the Northern Quarter. Two other busy Manchester railway stations are within walking distance, too, Victoria and Oxford Road.
The station is linked by taxis on the Fairfield Street side, frequent local bus routes are available outside, and regular Metrolink trams depart from Piccadilly Tram Station. This makes getting anywhere you need to in Manchester convenient, easy, and quick.
If you need to get to Manchester Airport, a regular train departs from Piccadilly, which can take you to the airport in only fifteen minutes.
Avanti West Coast train classes
- Standard Class: Avanti West Coast’s Standard Class offers walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and charging plugs for your devices.
- First Class: A London 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. 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: Assist with boarding and alighting trains, book wheelchair space and seating, offer comprehensive rail information, and help with animals or pets.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.