- 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 Birmingham to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 04 Oct
Cheapest price on 04 Oct
£17
Average ticket price on 04 Oct
£41
Fastest journey on 04 Oct
1 h 37 m
Average journey duration on 04 Oct
1 h 42 m
Trains on 04 Oct
9
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Preston will cost around £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £17.
Fast trains
On Sun 04 Oct, we found 9 trains from Birmingham to Preston, including 9 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 1 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 37 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 44 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
W331348:451h37Birmingham New Street (BHM)10:22Preston station (PRE)£171One-way0 changes- W333579:071h44Birmingham New Street (BHM)10:51Preston station (PRE)£181One-way0 changes
- W3321711:071h45Birmingham New Street (BHM)12:52Preston station (PRE)£201One-way0 changes
- W3337615:071h44Birmingham New Street (BHM)16:51Preston station (PRE)£341One-way0 changes
- W3318610:071h45Birmingham New Street (BHM)11:52Preston station (PRE)£561One-way0 changes
- W331348:451h37Birmingham New Street (BHM)10:22Preston station (PRE)£171One-way0 changes
- W3337813:071h43Birmingham New Street (BHM)14:50Preston station (PRE)£561One-way0 changes
- W3337416:071h44Birmingham New Street (BHM)17:51Preston station (PRE)£561One-way0 changes
- W3337514:071h44Birmingham New Street (BHM)15:51Preston station (PRE)£561One-way0 changes
- W333579:071h44Birmingham New Street (BHM)10:51Preston station (PRE)£181One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £14 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 153 km distance in 1h 37m.
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 £12
Distance 153 km |
Average train duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price £14 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 1h 37m |
First train 4:56 |
Last train 22:30 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 £12
Live departures
Birmingham to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Preston trains for today, Saturday 3 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W33798+ W00441 | Delayed 15:34 15:41Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h10 | 17:51 Preston station (PRE) | 1 change | |
| Sunday 4 October | |||||
| W33134 | 8:45 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h37 | 10:22 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W33357 | 9:07 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h44 | 10:51 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W33186 | 10:07 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h45 | 11:52 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W33217 | 11:07 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h45 | 12:52 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W33373 | 12:07 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h44 | 13:51 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W33378 | 13:07 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h43 | 14:50 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W33375 | 14:07 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h44 | 15:51 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W33376 | 15:07 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h44 | 16:51 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W33374 | 16:07 Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h44 | 17:51 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Birmingham to Preston trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Birmingham to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Preston.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains from Birmingham to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Birmingham and Preston from £12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
1h 37m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£14
Avanti West Coast frequency
6 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
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 16m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£35
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
1h 38m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£42
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel 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: Birmingham to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham 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 Birmingham to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £14, while the average price tends to be around £28.
The train journey from Birmingham to Preston covers a distance of 153 km and takes approximately 1h 37m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Birmingham to Preston is 153 km.
The first train from Birmingham to Preston leaves at 4:56.
The last train from Birmingham to Preston departs at 22:30.
Trains from Birmingham to Preston run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Birmingham to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train between Birmingham and Preston. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
There is no night train service from Birmingham to Preston.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Preston is Birmingham New Street (BHM), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
Booking trains from Birmingham 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 Birmingham to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with glimpses of the picturesque English countryside, charming towns, and historical landmarks, making it a moderately scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Birmingham and Preston
Most Birmingham to Preston trains use the Birmingham New Street to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Birmingham
Arrival train stations in Preston
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre
Bus16 · 7m · £2 · every ~27 min
Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services
Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.
Birmingham InternationalBirmingham International station, Stationlink Road, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, West Midlands, B40 1PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham International from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham International is 12 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 9m · £4 · every ~8 min
BusX1 · 39m · £4 · every ~23 min
X1 · 40m · £4 · every ~23 min
17A · 53m · £4 · every ~19 min
Birmingham International train station facilities and services
Birmingham International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham International.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham International. ATMs are available at Birmingham International.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham International. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham International: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Small HeathSmall Heath station, Golden Hillock Road, Small Heath, West Midlands, B10 0DP+44 333 311 0039
City-centre transport
Getting to Small Heath from Birmingham city centre
Small Heath is 3 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainBirmingham Snow Hill - Whitlocks End, Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Leamington Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill - Leamington Spa, Kidderminster - Stratford-upon-Avon, Kidderminster - Whitlocks End, Stourbridge Junction - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Whitlocks End · 7m · £0.89 · every ~5 min
BusX2, X1 · 14m · £2 · every ~29 min
Small Heath train station facilities and services
Small Heath has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Small Heath.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Small Heath. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Small Heath: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Small Heath: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Small Heath: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Preston station do trains from Birmingham arrive at?
Trains from Birmingham 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.
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Birmingham
Most popular train connections to Preston
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