- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.


Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carnforth to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £7, and a coach costs an average of £14.
Distance: 39 km
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£7 Average Price Cheapest | £17 Average Price |
56m Average total duration Fastest 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 59m Average total duration 2h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare train and coach 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.
Trains from Carnforth to Preston run on average 4 times per day, taking around 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:18, the last at 23:18. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 28m.
Distance 39 km |
Average train duration 26m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 28m |
First train 5:18 |
Last train 23:18 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 7 days |
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
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.
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
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.
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.
Official public transport app
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carnforth 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.

Most Carnforth to Preston trains use the Carnforth to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Carnforth and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Carnforth is 1 km from Carnforth city centre. Public transport options include:
Carnforth has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Carnforth.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Carnforth: Parking.
Available at Carnforth: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Carnforth: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station Ramp access to both platforms using a subway, 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need