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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 £20.40. 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

£20.40󰄽

On Tue 24 Feb

  • £74.30󰄽
    Wed18 Feb
  • £52.50󰄽
    Thu19 Feb
  • £22.50󰄽
    Fri20 Feb
  • £24.00󰄽
    Sat21 Feb
  • £28.70󰄽
    Sun22 Feb
  • £21.00󰄽
    Mon23 Feb
  • Tue24 Feb

London to Manchester train timetable

From London to Manchester, take the fastest train in 2h 11m, typically 2h 55m. Daily, 65 trains depart from London, with the first at 00:39 and the last at 23:30. During Off-Peak times starting at 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter space with fewer people. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. We save you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

09:53

London Euston
2h 52m, 1 change

12:45

Manchester Piccadilly
Avanti West Coast
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10:02

London Euston
3h 3m, 2 change

13:05

Manchester Piccadilly
Avanti West Coast
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10:27

London Euston
2h 40m, 1 change

13:07

Manchester Oxford Road
Avanti West Coast
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10:30

London Euston
2h 55m, 1 change

13:25

Manchester Piccadilly
Avanti West Coast
Find tickets

10:53

London Euston
2h 52m, 1 change

13:45

Manchester Piccadilly
Avanti West Coast
Find tickets
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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 £20.40
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
163 miles (262km)
Journey time
2h 11m
First train
00:39
Last train
23:30
Frequency
65

Direct train route from London to Manchester

It takes an average of 2h 11m to travel from London to Manchester by train. The distance is approximately 163 miles (262km). Normally, 65 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

The train journey from London to Manchester combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from London, you can get to Manchester in just 2h 11m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

Ticket prices from London to Manchester average around £20.40, 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 London to Manchester?

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 London to Manchester.

What is the fastest train from London to Manchester?

The quickest train journey from London to Manchester takes 2h 11m . 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, you will need to transfer when travelling from London to Manchester. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from London to Manchester?

Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

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

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?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

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

Yes, most trains on the route from London to Manchester are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

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?

First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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, 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.

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 train from London 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

  • Luggage

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

  • Bicycle

    You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.

  • 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?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.