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  3. London to Manchester

London to Manchester train ticket prices

Travelling from London to Manchester by train? Find fares from as low as €17.04. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

€17.04󰄽

On Mon 09 Feb

  • €25.56󰄽
    Tue03 Feb
  • €25.56󰄽
    Wed04 Feb
  • €29.21󰄽
    Thu05 Feb
  • €25.56󰄽
    Fri06 Feb
  • €45.59󰄽
    Sat07 Feb
  • €43.81󰄽
    Sun08 Feb
  • Mon09 Feb

London to Manchester train tickets and times

Plan your journey from London 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.

Price
From €17.04
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
163 miles (262km)
Journey time
2 hours 6 minutes
First train
00:39
Last train
23:30
Frequency
64

Direct train route from London to Manchester

It takes an average of 2 hours 6 minutes to travel from London to Manchester by train. The distance is approximately 163 miles (262km). Normally, 64 trains per day travel from London to Manchester, with the first train departing at 00:39 and the last at 23:30.

Departing from London Euston

The best and fastest train from London to Manchester departs from London Euston. Located on the London Inner Ring Road, between Cardington Street and Eversholt Street in the London Borough of Camden, Euston Station is easily accessible by buses, taxis, and the London Underground.

London Euston provides train services to other major cities such as Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Northampton, and Watford. The main train operators serving this station include Avanti West Coast, London Northwestern Railway, Caledonian Sleeper, and London Overground, ensuring a wide range of travel options.

London Euston is also well-connected to the London Underground, with direct access to the Northern and Victoria lines. This makes it convenient for passengers to reach other parts of London seamlessly.

Main stops

The main stops along this journey include Milton Keynes Central, Stoke-on-Trent, Stockport, and beyond. The stops may vary depending on the time, train operators, and train routes.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

The best and fastest train from London to Manchester arrives at Manchester Piccadilly. Located in the southeast of the city centre, Manchester Piccadilly Station is easily accessible by various modes of transport, including buses, taxis, and the Metrolink trams.

Manchester Piccadilly provides train services to other major cities such as Bristol, Liverpool, Chester, Sheffield, and Bradford. The main train operators serving this station include Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Northern, TransPennine Express, and Transport for Wales, ensuring a wide range of travel options.

Near Manchester Piccadilly, visit the vibrant Northern Quarter for its street art and cafes, explore the Manchester Art Gallery, and enjoy shopping and dining in the bustling Piccadilly Gardens area.

Avanti West Coast trains from London to Manchester

Travel from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly in about 2 hours and 15 minutes with Avanti West Coast trains.

Along the way, enjoy views of the scenic English countryside, rolling hills, and quaint villages, as well as the Chiltern Hills, lush landscapes of the Trent Valley, and the edge of the Peak District, offering a picturesque travel experience.

Avanti West Coast is the premier provider of long-distance trains on the West Coast. It offers high-speed trains from London to destinations such as Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Chester.

Avanti West Coast Standard Class

Travelling in Standard Class gives you access to free onboard WiFi, snacks from the onboard shop, and refurbished seats and tables.

Avanti West Coast Standard Premium

Travelling in Standard Premium gives you upgraded seats with extra legroom, a table for working, and plug sockets at every window seat.

Avanti West Coast First Class

Travelling in First Class gives you upgraded seats with extra legroom, personalised service onboard, complimentary food and drink, and access to First Class lounges for pre-departure comfort.

Travel with Avanti West Coast

We provide all the information you might need for your journey, including luggage allowance, storage facilities, travelling with children and pets, and assisted travel.

  • Luggage: You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
  • Bicycles: Bike reservations are mandatory and free. Limited spaces are available for standard bikes, folding bikes, tandems, and e-bikes. No motorcycles, tricycles, or e-scooters.
  • Children: On most journeys, children under 5 travel free, ages 5-15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver for 50% off.
  • Pets: Bring up to 2 pets free, keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant cars.
  • Passenger Assist: Services for passengers with special needs include assistance, help boarding, reserving wheelchair spaces, detailed rail info, and pet assistance.

London to Manchester train travel guide

Travelling by train from London to Manchester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London, you can reach Manchester in just 2 hours 6 minutes, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from London to Manchester?

The average ticket fare from London to Manchester is about €17.04, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.

How do I find the best train route from London to Manchester?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare London to Manchester train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from London to Manchester?

The quickest train journey from London to Manchester takes 2 hours 6 minutes . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.

Are there direct trains from London to Manchester?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from London to Manchester. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from London to Manchester?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find London to Manchester train timetables?

London to Manchester trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.

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.

Do London to Manchester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the London 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?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

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

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

Can UK train 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 Train Tickets and Off-Peak train 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.

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 London to Manchester route?

The route from London to Manchester is operated by Avanti West Coast. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • Bicycle

    A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.

  • Children

    Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.

  • Pets

    You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap London to Manchester train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
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Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

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

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

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

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

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

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.