- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
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Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Watford to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Watford to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £56. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £56, and a flight costs an average of £64.
Distance: 282 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|
£61 Average Price Cheapest | £68 Average Price |
3h 16m Average total duration 2h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 55m Average total duration Fastest 55m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets Watford to Preston by train or flight
Compare train and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Watford to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a bus from Watford to Preston and enjoy the approximately 282 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest coach runs at 03:15, the last at 23:05.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £56
Distance 282 km |
Buses per day 6 |
First bus 3:15 |
Last bus 23:05 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 2 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £56
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
The Egypt Centre
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
- Recommended
Ribble Steam Railway and Museum
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
- Must visit
Avenham Park
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
- Recommended
Miller Park
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
- Recommended
Preston Docklands
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
- Vegetarian
Simnel Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
263 Restaurant
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Angelo's
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
The Continental
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Preston Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.20
To the city centre
Preston Bus Station -> Preston Railway Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless Tap & Go works on Preston Bus services; daily charging is capped at the day ticket price when all taps are recorded. ([lancashire.gov.uk](https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/roads-parking-and-travel/public-transport/paying-for-your-journey/tap-and-go/?utm_source=openai))
- Fares in Preston vary by operator, so use the operator's own fare page before travelling. Preston Bus publishes its current tickets and fares online. ([lancashire.gov.uk](https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/roads-parking-and-travel/public-transport/paying-for-your-journey/daily-and-weekly-tickets/?utm_source=openai))
FAQs: Watford to Preston coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Watford to Preston by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The earliest coach from Watford to Preston leaves at 3:15. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Watford to Preston leaves at 23:05.
When departing from Watford , you have various coach station options to start your route from including London, Victoria Coach Station, London, Finchley Road ("Subway" restaurant) . When arriving in Preston , you can end your route in coach stations like Preston, Bus Station, Lancaster, University.Passengers board the coach most frequently from London, Victoria Coach Station, which is located around 2 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Preston, Bus Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
The cheapest month for a coach from Watford to Preston is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Watford and Preston including taking a train and flight.
No, the coach from Watford to Preston has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the coach from Watford to Preston.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Watford to Preston.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the coach from Watford to Preston.
No, luggage for the coach from Watford to Preston needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the coach from Watford to Preston.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Watford to Preston.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the coach from Watford to Preston.
No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Watford to Preston.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Watford and Preston
Most Watford to Preston buses use the London, Victoria Coach Station to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Watford and Preston bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Watford
Arrival bus stations in Preston
Which Preston station do buses from Watford arrive at?
Buses from Watford to Preston most often arrive at Preston, Bus Station. Some services arrive at Lancaster, University, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Preston arrival station.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · £8 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Most popular bus connections from Watford
More options for your journey from Watford to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Preston and Watford
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