Gloucester to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Thu 17 Sept
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gloucester to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept

Cheapest price on 17 Sept

£56

Average ticket price on 17 Sept

£88

Fastest journey on 17 Sept

2 h 35 m

Average journey duration on 17 Sept

2 h 38 m

Trains on 17 Sept

7

Distance

180 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Gloucester to Manchester will cost around £88 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £56.

Fast trains

To travel from Gloucester to Manchester you need to make at least one change.

  • CrossCountryG66712 · G00855
    9:492h40
    Gloucester station (GCR)
    12:29Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £561One-way
    1 change
  • CrossCountryG00938 · G00851
    8:492h40
    Gloucester station (GCR)
    11:29Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £761One-way
    1 change
  • CrossCountryG66721+Great Western RailwayW35060
    8:242h35
    Gloucester station (GCR)
    10:59Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £951One-way
    1 change
  • CrossCountryG00854+Great Western RailwayW35061
    9:222h37
    Gloucester station (GCR)
    11:59Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £951One-way
    1 change
  • CrossCountryG66730+Great Western RailwayG15030
    10:222h37
    Gloucester station (GCR)
    12:59Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    £951One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Gloucester to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gloucester to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £18 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 49m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £18, while a train costs an average of £39.

Distance: 180 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Driving

£39

Average Price

£18

Average Price

Cheapest

£36

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 19m

Average total duration

3h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 46m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Gloucester to Manchester is a coach with an average price of £18.

This is compared to other travel options from Gloucester to Manchester:

A coach is £21 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gloucester to Manchester costing on average £39.

The fastest way to travel from Gloucester to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 3h 19m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Coach takes on average 3h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gloucester and Manchester including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around £39 compared to roughly £36 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-2.71. The journey takes 3h 19m versus 2h 46m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Gloucester to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Gloucester to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
CrossCountryG00849+Great Western RailwayC48130 · W34456 · C009965:22 Stonehouse station (SHU)
5h07
10:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)3 changes
CrossCountryG66721+Great Western RailwayW350608:24 Gloucester station (GCR)
2h35
10:59 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 change
CrossCountryG00938 · G008518:49 Gloucester station (GCR)
2h40
11:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 change
CrossCountryG00854+Great Western RailwayW350619:22 Gloucester station (GCR)
2h37
11:59 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 change
CrossCountryG66712 · G008559:49 Gloucester station (GCR)
2h40
12:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 change
CrossCountryG66730+Great Western RailwayG1503010:22 Gloucester station (GCR)
2h37
12:59 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 change
CrossCountryG01067 · G0085810:49 Gloucester station (GCR)
2h40
13:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Gloucester 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.

Thu
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept

Why should you book Gloucester to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Gloucester to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gloucester to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Gloucester to Manchester.
  • 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.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Gloucester to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Gloucester to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Gloucester to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Gloucester to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Gloucester to Manchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 but you can travel from only £10 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:48, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 180 km distance in 2h 28m.

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
180 km
Average train duration
3h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
£19
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 28m
First train
4:48
Last train
23:36
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
1 day
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: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Gloucester to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Gloucester and Manchester from £10. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£19
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
4h 24m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£56
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£148
Cross Country frequency
9 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
£156
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
7 a day

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Major science and industry museum on historic railway land, with galleries on textiles, transport and Manchester’s role in modern innovation.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

Large university museum with natural history, archaeology and cultural collections, plus changing exhibitions in a prominent Oxford Road building.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Leading art museum with British and European paintings, design, costume and craft collections in a landmark city-centre building.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK city. Hotels can be pricey at peak times, but dining, pubs and local transport are usually cheaper than London.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is good and not already added. Round up taxi fares; cafés usually do not require tips.

FAQs: Gloucester to Manchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gloucester 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
The cost of a train ticket from Gloucester to Manchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £19, while the average price tends to be around £39.
The train journey from Gloucester to Manchester covers a distance of 180 km and takes approximately 2h 28m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Gloucester to Manchester is 180 km.
The first train from Gloucester to Manchester leaves at 4:48.
The last train from Gloucester to Manchester departs at 23:36.
Trains from Gloucester to Manchester run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Gloucester to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Gloucester to Manchester.
To get from Gloucester to Manchester, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Gloucester to Manchester.
The train station in Gloucester that goes to Manchester is Gloucester station (GCR), and it arrives at Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Gloucester to Manchester is by coach, costing approximately £10.
Booking trains from Gloucester to Manchester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Gloucester to Manchester passes through picturesque countryside, including the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and scenic landscapes in the Midlands, offering a pleasant and visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from Gloucester to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 28m. However, there are 6 trains per day covering the 180 km.
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.
A stay of 2 to 4 days in Manchester is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, including museums, historical sites, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Gloucester to Manchester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Gloucester and Manchester

Most Gloucester to Manchester trains use the Gloucester to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Gloucester and Manchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Gloucester
Arrival train stations in Manchester

Which Gloucester station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Gloucester to Manchester leave from Gloucester. The station is from Gloucester city centre at Gloucester station, Bruton Way, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 1DE.
GloucesterGloucester station, Bruton Way, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 1DEWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Gloucester from Gloucester city centre

Bus8 · 1m · £4 · every ~9 min

Gloucester train station facilities and services

Gloucester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Gloucester.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Gloucester. ATMs are available at Gloucester.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Gloucester.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Gloucester: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Gloucester: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Gloucester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A station - step free access available to all platforms with liftbridge to link platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, 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 Gloucester to Manchester

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

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