- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basingstoke to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£108
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£138
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
3 h 48 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
3 h 54 m
Trains on 18 Sept
6
Distance
299 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basingstoke to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basingstoke to Preston will cost around £138 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £108.
Fast trains
To travel from Basingstoke to Preston you need to make at least one change.
G00849+
C013696:513h59Basingstoke station (BSK)10:50Preston station (PRE)£1081One-way1 change- G00851+W339417:504h01Basingstoke station (BSK)11:51Preston station (PRE)£1161One-way1 change
- W34033+
L78756+
Tube from London Waterloo to London Euston8:354h03Basingstoke station (BSK)12:38Preston station (PRE)£1161One-way2 changes - W34254+L79323+Tube from London Waterloo to London Euston6:513h48Basingstoke station (BSK)10:39Preston station (PRE)£1161One-way2 changes
- W33912+L79919+Tube from London Waterloo to London Euston7:453h54Basingstoke station (BSK)11:39Preston station (PRE)£1161One-way2 changes
- W34254+L79323+Tube from London Waterloo to London Euston6:513h48Basingstoke station (BSK)10:39Preston station (PRE)£1161One-way2 changes
- G00851+W33912+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston+
W353577:503h49Basingstoke station (BSK)11:39Preston station (PRE)£2591One-way3 changes - W33912+L79919+Tube from London Waterloo to London Euston7:453h54Basingstoke station (BSK)11:39Preston station (PRE)£1161One-way2 changes
- G00849+C013696:513h59Basingstoke station (BSK)10:50Preston station (PRE)£1081One-way1 change
- G00851+W339417:504h01Basingstoke station (BSK)11:51Preston station (PRE)£1161One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train for Basingstoke to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basingstoke to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £236 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 41m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £236, while a train costs an average of £236.
Distance: 299 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£236 Average Price Cheapest | £59 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 41m Average total duration Fastest 4h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Basingstoke to Preston is a train with an average price of £236.
The fastest way to travel from Basingstoke to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 4h 11m.
Yes, you can take a train between Basingstoke and Preston.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £236 compared to roughly £59 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-176.39. The journey takes 4h 11m versus 4h 9m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Basingstoke to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Basingstoke to Preston trains for tomorrow, Friday 18 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G00849+C01369 | 6:51 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 3h59 | 10:50 Preston station (PRE) | 1 change | |
| L79323+W34254+Tube from London Waterloo to London Euston | 6:51 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 3h48 | 10:39 Preston station (PRE) | 2 changes | |
| L79919+W33912+Tube from London Waterloo to London Euston | 7:45 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 3h54 | 11:39 Preston station (PRE) | 2 changes | |
| G00851+W33941 | 7:50 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 4h01 | 11:51 Preston station (PRE) | 1 change | |
| G00851+W33912+W35357+Tube from London Paddington to London Euston | 7:50 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 3h49 | 11:39 Preston station (PRE) | 3 changes | |
| L78756+W34033+Tube from London Waterloo to London Euston | 8:35 Basingstoke station (BSK) | 4h03 | 12:38 Preston station (PRE) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basingstoke to Preston by train
Compare train 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
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23 Sept
23 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basingstoke to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Basingstoke to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £190 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 20:59. The fastest train covers the 299 km distance in 3h 44m.
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
Distance 299 km |
Average train duration 4h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price £190 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 44m |
First train 5:33 |
Last train 20:59 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Train companies: Cross Country from Basingstoke to Preston trainsCross Country trains will get you between Basingstoke and Preston from £190. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
3h 44m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£190
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
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
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.50
To the city centre
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Most local buses in Preston support contactless Tap and Go; fares are capped at the Day Ticket price on participating Preston Bus services.
- Check the operator before boarding. Preston fares and app tickets may differ from other bus operators in the city.
FAQs: Basingstoke to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basingstoke to Preston by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Basingstoke to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £190, while the average price tends to be around £236.
The train journey from Basingstoke to Preston covers a distance of 299 km and takes approximately 3h 44m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Basingstoke to Preston is 299 km.
The first train from Basingstoke to Preston leaves at 5:33.
The last train from Basingstoke to Preston departs at 20:59.
Trains from Basingstoke to Preston run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Basingstoke to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Basingstoke to Preston.
To travel from Basingstoke to Preston, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Basingstoke to Preston.
The train station in Basingstoke that goes to Preston is Basingstoke station (BSK), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Basingstoke to Preston is by train, costing approximately £190.
Booking trains from Basingstoke to Preston in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Basingstoke to Preston offers diverse scenery, including picturesque countryside views as it passes through regions like the Chiltern Hills and the Peak District, providing a pleasant experience for travellers.
A day trip from Basingstoke to Preston is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 44m each way. Trains are available 5 times per day.
To fully explore Preston's key attractions, such as the Harris Museum, Avenham and Miller Parks, and the Ribble Steam Railway, a stay of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Basingstoke to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Basingstoke and Preston
Most Basingstoke to Preston trains use the Basingstoke to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Basingstoke and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Basingstoke
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Basingstoke station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Basingstoke to Preston leave from Basingstoke. The station is 1 km from Basingstoke city centre at Basingstoke station, Station Hill, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 5NB.
BasingstokeBasingstoke station, Station Hill, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 5NB+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Basingstoke from Basingstoke city centre
Bus3, 11, 16 · 5m · £2 · every ~28 min
Basingstoke train station facilities and services
Basingstoke has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Basingstoke.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Basingstoke. ATMs are available at Basingstoke.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basingstoke.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basingstoke: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basingstoke: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basingstoke: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. This station has step-free access to all platforms via lifts from the main entrance. The rear entrance has level access to Platforms 4 and 5 (and to other platforms via lifts) but is only open Monday-Friday 0600 until 1000 and from 1500 until 2345 (closed at weekends) - outside these times a stepped subway must be used. The alternative step-free route from the rear to the main entrance via the street is approximately 380m and includes missing dropped kerbs and sections of route without a pavement. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Preston station do trains from Basingstoke arrive at?
Trains from Basingstoke to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · £8 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
More options for your journey from Basingstoke to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Basingstoke
Most popular train connections to Preston
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