- 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 for Bedford to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bedford to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 25m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £42, while a train costs an average of £121.
Distance: 236 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£121 Average Price | £42 Average Price Cheapest | £49 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 25m Average total duration 5h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bedford to Preston is a coach with an average price of £42.
This is compared to other travel options from Bedford to Preston:
A coach is £79 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bedford to Preston costing on average £121.
The fastest way to travel from Bedford to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 55m.
Yes, you can take a between Bedford and Preston.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 26m sooner (2h 55m by train vs 3h 21m by car). Tickets start at around £121 compared to roughly £49 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Bedford to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Preston trains for today, Sunday 20 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:13 Bedford | 4h26 | 13:39 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bedford 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.
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Why should you book Bedford to Preston trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Bedford to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Preston.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bedford to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bedford to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £87 but you can travel from only £37 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:32, the last at 20:59. The fastest train covers the 236 km distance in 2h 36m.
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
Coach from £37
Distance 236 km |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price £87 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 36m |
First train 5:32 |
Last train 20:59 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
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
Coach from £37
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast from Bedford to Preston trainsEast Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Bedford and Preston from £37. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
3h 5m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£87
East Midlands Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 36m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£87
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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: Bedford to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford 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 Bedford to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £87, while the average price tends to be around £121.
The train journey from Bedford to Preston covers a distance of 236 km and takes approximately 2h 36m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Bedford to Preston is 236 km.
The first train from Bedford to Preston leaves at 5:32.
The last train from Bedford to Preston departs at 20:59.
Trains from Bedford to Preston run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Bedford to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bedford to Preston.
To travel from Bedford to Preston, you can take a .
There is no night train service from Bedford to Preston.
The train station in Bedford that goes to Preston is Bedford station (BDM), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Bedford to Preston is by coach, costing approximately £37.
Booking trains from Bedford 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 Bedford to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural views, with scenic landscapes particularly noticeable as you pass through the rolling countryside of the Midlands and the picturesque areas surrounding the Peak District.
A day trip from Bedford to Preston is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 36m each way. There are 4 trains available 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 Bedford to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bedford and Preston
Most Bedford to Preston trains use the Bedford to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Bedford and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bedford
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Bedford station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Bedford to Preston leave from Bedford. The station is 1 km from Bedford city centre at Bedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS.
BedfordBedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS
Bedford train station facilities and services
Bedford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bedford. ATMs are available at Bedford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bedford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is adjacent to the taxi rank at the front of the station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Bedford St JohnsBedford St Johns station, Melbourne Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 9AN
City-centre transport
Getting to Bedford St Johns from Bedford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesIn the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from the Medbourne Road car park, by the path leading to the platform. Please check the direction of travel before boarding.
Bedford St Johns train station facilities and services
Bedford St Johns has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford St Johns.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford St Johns: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford St Johns: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford St Johns: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Preston station do trains from Bedford arrive at?
Trains from Bedford 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 Bedford to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Bedford
Most popular train connections to Preston
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