Cambridge to Manchester train with East Midlands Trains

Tue 02 Dec
+ Add return
East Midlands Trains
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
LNER
TransPennine Express
1,000+ travel companies
East Midlands Trains
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
LNER
TransPennine Express
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Manchester

Showing times and prices for 02 Dec

Cheapest price

£59

Average price

£76

Fastest journey

3 h 42 m

Average duration

4 h 10 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

213 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cambridge to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cambridge to Manchester will cost around £76 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £59.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Cambridge for Manchester every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 213 km distance in an average of 4 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 42 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 26 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.

LNER
07:005h02
Cambridge
12:02Manchester
£591One-way
0 changes
East Midlands Trains
07:234h42
Cambridge
12:05Manchester
£641One-way
0 changes
East Midlands Trains
11:394h56
Cambridge
16:35Manchester
£781One-way
0 changes
Avanti West Coast
18:533h55
Cambridge
22:48Manchester
£851One-way
0 changes
Avanti West Coast
07:373h42
Cambridge
11:19Manchester
£921One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Cambridge to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £14. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £14, and a flight costs an average of £56.

Distance: 213 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£92

Average Price

£28

Average Price

Cheapest

£170

Average Price

4h 11m

Average total duration

3h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 2m

Average total duration

5h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 6m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 6m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cambridge to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 2 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:07
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
east_midlands_railway05:14 Cambridge
4h21
09:35 Manchester0 changesdirect
london_north_eastern_railway07:00 Cambridge
5h02
12:02 Manchester0 changesdirect
east_midlands_railway07:09 Cambridge
4h26
11:35 Manchester0 changesdirect
east_midlands_railway11:39 Cambridge
4h56
16:35 Manchester0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Manchester by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Tue
02 Dec
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cambridge to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Cambridge to Manchester is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cambridge to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cambridge to Manchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cambridge to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cambridge to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £33 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 213 km distance in 3h 35m.

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 £14
Distance
213 km
Average train duration
3h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
£33
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 35m
First train
00:04
Last train
21:13
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 £14

Train companies: East Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, LNER, TransPennine Express, Thameslink, Cross Country, Great Northern from Cambridge to Manchester trainsEast Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, LNER, TransPennine Express, Thameslink, Cross Country, Great Northern trains will get you between Cambridge and Manchester from £14. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

East Midlands Trains

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 Duration
4h 9m
Cheapest Price
£33
East Midlands Trains 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

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 Duration
4h 19m
Cheapest Price
£113
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

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 Duration
3h 42m
Cheapest Price
£59
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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

LNER

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 52m
Cheapest Price
£57
LNER frequency
2 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone

TransPennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 5m
Cheapest Price
£47
TransPennine Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 12m
Cheapest Price
£170
Thameslink frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Great Northern

About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 9m
Cheapest Price
£160
Great Northern frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 39m
Cheapest Price
£121
Cross Country frequency
23 a day

FAQs: Cambridge to Manchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge to Manchester 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 Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cambridge to Manchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £33, while the average price tends to be around £92.
A stay of 2 to 4 days in Manchester is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, including museums, historical sites, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the iconic stadium of Manchester United, and the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art. Enjoy performances at the Manchester Opera House and experience the vibrant nightlife at Deansgate Locks. Relax at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery and the Science and Industry Museum. Admire Manchester Cathedral's Gothic architecture and the John Rylands Library's rare collections. Stroll through Castlefield, with its Roman ruins and picturesque canals.
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Manchester is by coach, costing approximately £14.
The train distance from Cambridge to Manchester is 213 km.
The last train from Cambridge to Manchester departs at 21:13.
There is no night train service from Cambridge to Manchester.
A day trip from Cambridge to Manchester is not feasible due to the journey duration of 3h 35m. However, there are 6 trains per day covering a distance of 213 km.
The train journey from Cambridge to Manchester offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including stretches of the Fenlands and glimpses of the Peak District, providing some scenic elements along the route.
Booking trains from Cambridge to Manchester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cambridge to Manchester covers a distance of 213 km and takes approximately 3h 35m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Manchester is Cambridge station (CBG), and it arrives at Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The first train from Cambridge to Manchester leaves at 0:04.
Trains from Cambridge to Manchester run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Cambridge to Manchester.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Manchester.
To get from Cambridge to Manchester, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cambridge and Manchester

Cambridge
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Cambridge is Cambridge. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge for your trip from Cambridge to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:10 - 23:00 Saturday 05:10 - 23:00 Sunday 07:00 - 22:55
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
  • Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
  • 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: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The accessible toilets are on platform 4
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Platforms 1, 4 and 7
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Cycle point is by the Car Park
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cambridge
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses depart from the front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Station foyer
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Waiting rooms are available on each platform
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Adjacent station building.
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878
Public transport options for Cambridge North
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: From bus stop on station forecourt.
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