- 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 Inverness to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept
Cheapest price on 19 Sept
£63
Average ticket price on 19 Sept
£130
Fastest journey on 19 Sept
6 h 26 m
Average journey duration on 19 Sept
7 h 5 m
Trains on 19 Sept
4
Distance
423 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Inverness to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Inverness to Preston will cost around £130 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £63.
Fast trains
On Sat 19 Sept, we found 4 trains from Inverness to Preston, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 423 km distance in an average of 7 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 26 m .
The slowest trains will take 8 h 48 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.
7:426h33Inverness14:15Preston£631One-way0 changes- 8:426h33Inverness15:15Preston£1051One-way0 changes
- 10:506h26Inverness17:16Preston£1361One-way0 changes
- 9:508h48Inverness18:38Preston£2141One-way0 changes
- 10:506h26Inverness17:16Preston£1361One-way0 changes
- 8:426h33Inverness15:15Preston£1051One-way0 changes
- 7:426h33Inverness14:15Preston£631One-way0 changes
- 9:508h48Inverness18:38Preston£2141One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Inverness to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Inverness to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £55 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 23m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £55, while a flight costs an average of £215.
Distance: 423 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£60 Average Price | £55 Average Price Cheapest | £215 Average Price | £90 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 58m Average total duration 6h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 34m Average total duration 8h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 23m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Inverness to Preston is a train with an average price of £123.
This is compared to other travel options from Inverness to Preston:
A train is £308 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Inverness to Preston costing on average £431.
The fastest way to travel from Inverness to Preston is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 46m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Inverness and Preston including taking a coach, train and flight.
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 £123 compared to roughly £90 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-33.16. The journey takes 6h 10m versus 6h 2m 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
Inverness to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Preston trains for tomorrow, Saturday 19 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:42 Inverness | 6h33 | 14:15 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:42 Inverness | 6h33 | 15:15 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:50 Inverness | 8h48 | 18:38 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:50 Inverness | 6h26 | 17:16 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Inverness to Preston by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train and flight 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
19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
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25 Sept
Why should you book Inverness to Preston trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), ScotRail and more offer trains services from Inverness to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Inverness to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Inverness 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Scotrail with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Inverness to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Inverness to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Inverness to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Inverness to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Inverness to Preston run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £39 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 423 km distance in 6h 33m.
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 423 km |
Average train duration 6h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price £39 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 6h 33m |
First train 0:20 |
Last train 20:45 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
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
Train companies: Scotrail, Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), ScotRail from Inverness to Preston trainsScotrail, Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), ScotRail trains will get you between Inverness and Preston from £45. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
6h 33m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£39
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Caledonian Sleeper Duration
7h 25m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£86
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
London North Eastern Railway
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 London North Eastern Railway Duration
6h 51m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£169
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 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
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) Duration
6h 51m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) Price
£173
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) frequency
1 a day
ScotRail
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ScotRail Duration
5h 50m
Cheapest ScotRail Price
£139
ScotRail frequency
4 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: Inverness to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness 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 Inverness to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £39, while the average price tends to be around £60.
The train journey from Inverness to Preston covers a distance of 423 km and takes approximately 6h 33m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Inverness to Preston is 423 km.
The first train from Inverness to Preston leaves at 0:20.
The last train from Inverness to Preston departs at 20:45.
Trains from Inverness to Preston run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Inverness to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train between Inverness and Preston. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Caledonian Sleeper.
To get from Inverness to Preston, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
Yes, there is a night train from Inverness to Preston.
The train station in Inverness that goes to Preston is Inverness station (INV), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Inverness to Preston is by train, costing approximately £39.
Booking trains from Inverness 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 Inverness to Preston is considered scenic as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the Lake District, offering views of mountains, lochs, and charming countryside.
A day trip from Inverness to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 33m one way. However, there are 4 trains per day for this route.
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 Inverness to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Inverness and Preston
Most Inverness to Preston trains use the Inverness to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Inverness and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Inverness
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Inverness station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Inverness to Preston leave from Inverness. The station is from Inverness city centre at Inverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3, 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.
Which Preston station do trains from Inverness arrive at?
Trains from Inverness 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 Inverness
More options for your journey from Inverness to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Inverness
Most popular train connections to Preston
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