- 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 Cheltenham to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£88
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£88
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
2 h 38 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
2 h 38 m
Trains on 18 Sept
1
Distance
212 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Preston will cost around £88 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £88.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 1 trains from Cheltenham to Preston, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 212 km distance in an average of 2 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 38 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 38 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.
7:122h38Cheltenham9:50Preston£881One-way0 changes
- 7:122h38Cheltenham9:50Preston£881One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Cheltenham to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £163 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 54m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £163, while a train costs an average of £163.
Distance: 212 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£163 Average Price Cheapest | £41 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 54m Average total duration Fastest 2h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cheltenham to Preston is a train with an average price of £163.
The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 2h 24m.
Yes, you can take a train between Cheltenham and Preston.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 31m sooner (2h 24m by train vs 2h 55m by car). Tickets start at around £163 compared to roughly £41 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
Cheltenham to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Preston trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:12 Cheltenham | 2h39 | 13:51 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
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19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
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21 Sept
21 Sept
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22 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Cheltenham to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Cheltenham to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cheltenham to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £162 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 20:40. The fastest train covers the 212 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
Distance 212 km |
Average train duration 2h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price £162 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 36m |
First train 5:25 |
Last train 20:40 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Best time to book 14 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
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Cheltenham to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Cheltenham and Preston from £162. 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 38m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£89
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
2h 36m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£162
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
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: Cheltenham to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £162, while the average price tends to be around £163.
The train journey from Cheltenham to Preston covers a distance of 212 km and takes approximately 2h 36m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cheltenham to Preston is 212 km.
The first train from Cheltenham to Preston leaves at 5:25.
The last train from Cheltenham to Preston departs at 20:40.
Trains from Cheltenham to Preston run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cheltenham to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cheltenham to Preston.
To travel from Cheltenham to Preston, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Cheltenham to Preston.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Preston is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Preston is by train, costing approximately £162.
Booking trains from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the rolling countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of the Cotswolds, making parts of it quite scenic.
A day trip from Cheltenham to Preston is not feasible as the journey time is 2h 36m. However, there are 6 trains 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 Cheltenham to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cheltenham and Preston
Most Cheltenham to Preston trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Preston leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · £4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Which Preston station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Cheltenham
Most popular train connections to Preston
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