Darlington to Manchester train with TransPennine Express

Sun 23 Nov
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TransPennine Express
Northern Rail (3)
first_transpennine_express
LNER
Cross Country
1,000+ travel companies
TransPennine Express
Northern Rail (3)
first_transpennine_express
LNER
Cross Country
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Darlington to Manchester

Showing times and prices for 24 Nov

Cheapest price

£39

Average price

£50

Fastest journey

1 h 42 m

Average duration

1 h 55 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

124 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Darlington to Manchester will cost around £50 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £39.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Darlington for Manchester every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 124 km distance in an average of 1 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 42 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 8 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.

TransPennine ExpressC27200 · C26862
08:372h12
Darlington station (DAR)
10:49Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
£391One-way
1 change
TransPennine ExpressC27200 · C26862
08:372h08
Darlington station (DAR)
10:45Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)
£421One-way
1 change
TransPennine ExpressC26363
09:361h44
Darlington station (DAR)
11:20Manchester Victoria (MCV)
£461One-way
0 changes
TransPennine ExpressC27200
08:371h42
Darlington station (DAR)
10:19Manchester Victoria (MCV)
£461One-way
0 changes
CrossCountryC23749+TransPennine ExpressC26313
08:111h58
Darlington station (DAR)
10:09Manchester Victoria (MCV)
£481One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Darlington to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Darlington to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £10, and a train costs an average of £20.

Distance: 124 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£45

Average Price

£22

Average Price

Cheapest

2h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 10m

Average total duration

2h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

TransPennine Express

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Darlington to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Darlington to Manchester trains for today, Sunday 23 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 05:46
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
transpennine_expressC27201
On time
08:16 Darlington station (DAR)
2h06
10:22 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0 changesdirect
london_north_eastern_railwayW03400+transpennine_expressC26863
On time
08:27 Darlington station (DAR)
2h26
10:53 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
1 change
transpennine_expressC26364
On time
09:17 Darlington station (DAR)
2h02
11:19 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0 changesdirect
london_north_eastern_railwayW03402+transpennine_expressC26857
On time
09:28 Darlington station (DAR)
2h24
11:52 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
1 change
transpennine_expressC26361
On time
10:17 Darlington station (DAR)
2h05
12:22 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0 changesdirect
london_north_eastern_railwayW03404+transpennine_expressC26851
On time
10:29 Darlington station (DAR)
2h23
12:52 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
1 change
Monday 24 November
transpennine_express04:02 Darlington
2h20
06:22 Manchester0 changesdirect
transpennine_express04:38 Darlington
1h40
06:18 Manchester0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Darlington to Manchester by train or coach

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.

Mon
24 Nov
Tue
25 Nov
Wed
26 Nov
Thu
27 Nov
Fri
28 Nov
Sat
29 Nov
Sun
30 Nov

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Darlington to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Darlington to Manchester is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Darlington to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Darlington 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 Darlington to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Darlington to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Darlington to Manchester run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £20 but you can travel from only £10 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 124 km distance in 1h 42m.

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 £10
Distance
124 km
Average train duration
2h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
£20
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
1h 42m
First train
00:06
Last train
23:46
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 £10

Train companies: TransPennine Express, Northern Rail (3), first_transpennine_express, LNER, Cross Country from Darlington to Manchester trainsTransPennine Express, Northern Rail (3), first_transpennine_express, LNER, Cross Country trains will get you between Darlington and Manchester from £10. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
1h 40m
Cheapest Price
£20
TransPennine Express frequency
5 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

Northern Rail (3)

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
£23
Northern Rail (3) frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at 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 on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
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 dogs per passenger
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
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
£102
LNER frequency
1 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

first_transpennine_express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 41m
Cheapest Price
£46
first_transpennine_express frequency
11 a day

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Price
£78
Cross Country frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Darlington to Manchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Darlington 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
A stay of 2 to 4 days in Manchester is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, including museums, historical sites, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
A day trip from Darlington to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 42m. However, trains run 5 times per day, covering a distance of 124 km.
The train journey from Darlington to Manchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Yorkshire and the Pennines, with views of rolling hills, fields, and historic towns along the route.
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 Darlington to Manchester is by coach, costing approximately £10.
Booking trains from Darlington to Manchester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cost of a train ticket from Darlington to Manchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £20, while the average price tends to be around £45.
The train distance from Darlington to Manchester is 124 km.
The train journey from Darlington to Manchester covers a distance of 124 km and takes approximately 1h 42m. Trains run 5 per day.
The last train from Darlington to Manchester departs at 23:46.
Yes, there is a direct train between Darlington and Manchester. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by TransPennine Express, first_transpennine_express.
The train station in Darlington that goes to Manchester is Darlington station (DAR), and it arrives at Manchester Victoria (MCV).
There is no night train service from Darlington to Manchester.
The first train from Darlington to Manchester leaves at 0:06.
Trains from Darlington to Manchester run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Darlington to Manchester.
Yes, you can take the train from Darlington to Manchester.
To get from Darlington to Manchester, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Darlington and Manchester

Darlington
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Darlington is Darlington. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Darlington for your trip from Darlington to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 19:00 Saturday 07:00 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 18:00
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible public telephones: text phones are available and staff are on hand to assist as required due to no low level phones
  • Accessible taxis: Generally available but advance booking recommended
  • 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: The toilets are located on the Main Concourse; these toilets can be accessed from all platforms. The National key toilets are adjacent to Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from the Customer Reception on Platform 1 upon request.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: This station has heated waiting rooms available. Seating is available at an accessible height in the waiting room and on platforms
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: stations front
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Darlington
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement coach services depart from the station entrance
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Category C Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - Station is unstaffed there are 2 entrances to the staton, one is via steep steps 11 in total, the other is via a stepped ramps and about 40-50 metres in length.
  • 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: No
Public transport options for North Road
  • Onward travel information: There is a bus stop close to the station.Busline 0871 200 2233
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stops 150 yards from the railway bridge

More options for your journey from Darlington to Manchester

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Manchester Darlington to Manchester train

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