- 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £68 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 20:59. The fastest train covers the 311 km distance in 2h 54m.
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 311 km |
Average train duration 2h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price £68 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 54m |
First train 5:25 |
Last train 20:59 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 28 days |
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
Why should you book Chelmsford to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Chelmsford to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Chelmsford to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Chelmsford and Preston from £68. 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
2h 54m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£68
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
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.
Best day trips from Preston by train
The most popular day trips by train from Preston are Manchester, Liverpool, Blackpool, Lancaster and Leeds. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Preston on Omio.
Day trip from Preston to Manchester by train
Why visit Manchester for the day?
Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, influential music and deep football culture. Red-brick canalside areas, major museums and lively nightlife give it an energetic northern character.
How to get from Preston to Manchester by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 45 km distance in 31m.
Day trip from Preston to Liverpool by train
Why visit Liverpool for the day?
Liverpool is known for The Beatles, football and a waterfront shaped by its maritime past. Its grand docks, museums and lively city centre give it a proud, creative character.
How to get from Preston to Liverpool by train?
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:30, the last at 23:24. The fastest train covers the 43 km distance in 47m.
Day trip from Preston to Blackpool by train
Why visit Blackpool for the day?
Blackpool is a classic Lancashire seaside resort known for its piers, ballroom heritage and the Blackpool Illuminations. The long promenade and Blackpool Tower give the town a lively, traditional holiday feel.
How to get from Preston to Blackpool by train?
There are 18 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 23 km distance in 20m.
Day trip from Preston to Lancaster by train
Why visit Lancaster for the day?
Lancaster is known for its castle, Georgian architecture and ties to the House of Lancaster. Its compact centre, River Lune setting and student energy give the city a historic yet easy-going feel.
How to get from Preston to Lancaster by train?
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 23:26. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 14m.
Day trip from Preston to Leeds by train
Why visit Leeds for the day?
Leeds is a major West Yorkshire city known for Victorian arcades, shopping and a lively music scene. Its industrial heritage, regenerated waterfront and large student population give it an energetic but down-to-earth character.
How to get from Preston to Leeds by train?
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 77 km distance in 1h 22m.
FAQs: Chelmsford to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £68, while the average price tends to be around £97.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Preston covers a distance of 311 km and takes approximately 2h 54m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Chelmsford to Preston is 311 km.
The first train from Chelmsford to Preston leaves at 5:25.
The last train from Chelmsford to Preston departs at 20:59.
Trains from Chelmsford to Preston run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chelmsford to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Preston.
There is no night train service from Chelmsford to Preston.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Preston is Chelmsford station (CHM), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
Booking trains from Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural views, including glimpses of the countryside, quaint villages, and sections of the historic rail network, though it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chelmsford and Preston
Most Chelmsford to Preston trains use the Chelmsford to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chelmsford
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Preston leave from Chelmsford. The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: 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.
Which Preston station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Chelmsford
Most popular train connections to Preston
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