Derby to Preston train with East Midlands Railway

Sat 29 Aug
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East Midlands Railway
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
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Cross Country
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East Midlands Railway
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
east_midlands_trains
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Derby to Preston

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 29 Aug

Cheapest price on 29 Aug

£74

Average ticket price on 29 Aug

£74

Fastest journey on 29 Aug

2 h 13 m

Average journey duration on 29 Aug

2 h 16 m

Trains on 29 Aug

2

Distance

125 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Derby to Preston will cost around £74 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £74.

Fast trains

On Sat 29 Aug, we found 2 trains from Derby to Preston, including 2 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 125 km distance in an average of 2 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 13 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 18 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.

  • East Midlands Railway
    10:262h13
    Derby
    12:39Preston
    £741One-way
    0 changes
  • West Midlands Trains
    8:332h18
    Derby
    10:51Preston
    £741One-way
    0 changes

Live departures

Derby to Preston train times

The table below shows live departures for Derby to Preston trains for tomorrow, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
West Midlands Trains8:33 Derby
2h18
10:51 Preston0 changesdirect
East Midlands Railway10:26 Derby
2h13
12:39 Preston0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Derby 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.

Sat
29 Aug
Sun
30 Aug
Mon
31 Aug
Tue
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
Thu
03 Sept
Fri
04 Sept

Why should you book Derby to Preston trains with Omio?

East Midlands Railway as well as West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Derby to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Derby to Preston.

Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Derby 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Derby to Preston.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Derby to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Derby to Preston run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £41 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 125 km distance in 2h 1m.

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
125 km
Average train duration
1h 57m
Cheapest ticket price
£41
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 1m
First train
0:09
Last train
22:45
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Wed
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

Train companies: East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country from Derby to Preston trainsEast Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Derby and Preston from £41. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

East Midlands Railway

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 East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 13m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£73
East Midlands Railway frequency
6 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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£74
West Midlands Trains frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£27
Avanti West Coast 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
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

east_midlands_trains

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average east_midlands_trains Duration
2h 1m
Cheapest east_midlands_trains Price
£41
east_midlands_trains frequency
16 a day

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£68
Cross Country frequency
8 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.

  • Must visit

The Harris

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

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Derby to Preston train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Derby 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Derby to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £41, while the average price tends to be around £76.
The train journey from Derby to Preston covers a distance of 125 km and takes approximately 2h 1m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Derby to Preston is 125 km.
The first train from Derby to Preston leaves at 0:09.
The last train from Derby to Preston departs at 22:45.
Trains from Derby to Preston run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Derby to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Derby to Preston.
To travel from Derby to Preston, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Derby to Preston.
The train station in Derby that goes to Preston is Derby station (DBY), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Derby to Preston is by train, costing approximately £41.
Booking trains from Derby 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 Derby to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Travellers can enjoy views of the English countryside, including fields and small towns, particularly as the train moves through the Peak District area.
A day trip from Derby to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 1m. However, there are 5 trains per day covering the 125 km.
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 Derby to Preston.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Derby and Preston

Most Derby to Preston trains use the Derby to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Derby and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Derby
Arrival train stations in Preston

Which Derby station do trains to Preston leave from?

Trains from Derby to Preston leave from Derby. The station is 1 km from Derby city centre at Derby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Derby from Derby city centre

Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · £2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · £0.90 · every ~2 min

Derby train station facilities and services

Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Derby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Derby.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Derby.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Derby: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.

More options for your journey from Derby to Preston

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

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Preston Derby to Preston train

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