Inverness to Preston train with Scotrail

Tue 03 Nov
+ Add return
Scotrail
Caledonian Sleeper
London North Eastern Railway
Lumo
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
Scotrail
Caledonian Sleeper
London North Eastern Railway
Lumo
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Inverness to Preston

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 03 Nov
Cheapest price on 03 Nov
£66
Average ticket price on 03 Nov
£127
Fastest journey on 03 Nov
6 h 26 m
Average journey duration on 03 Nov
6 h 28 m
Trains on 03 Nov
10
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 £127 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £66.

Fast trains

To travel from Inverness to Preston you need to make at least one change.

  • ScotrailL88101 · W83039+Transpennine ExpressW84877
    2 changes
  • LumoY14762+ScotrailL88094
    1 change
  • ScotrailL88101+Avanti West CoastW34026+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central
    2 changes
  • ScotrailC14655+Avanti West CoastW34268
    1 change
  • ScotrailC14813 · W83006+Avanti West CoastW33861
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Inverness to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Inverness to Preston run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £43 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 5h 31m.

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 9m
Cheapest ticket price
£43
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
5h 31m
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

Frequently asked questions about your Inverness to Preston trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Inverness to Preston.

The cost of a train ticket from Inverness to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £43, while the average price tends to be around £107.
The train journey from Inverness to Preston covers a distance of 423 km and takes approximately 5h 31m. 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.
Yes, there is a direct train between Inverness and Preston. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Caledonian Sleeper.

Live departures

Inverness to Preston train times

The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Preston trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 3 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
ScotrailL88094+LumoY147628:42 Inverness station (INV)
6h44
15:26 Preston station (PRE)1 change
ScotrailL88094 · W83169+Avanti West CoastW341248:42 Inverness station (INV)
6h33
15:15 Preston station (PRE)2 changes
ScotrailC14653+Transpennine ExpressW849189:42 Inverness station (INV)
7h04
16:46 Preston station (PRE)1 change
ScotrailL87050+Avanti West CoastW0058710:50 Inverness station (INV)
6h26
17:16 Preston station (PRE)1 change
ScotrailC14655+Avanti West CoastW3426812:48 Inverness station (INV)
6h28
19:16 Preston station (PRE)1 change
ScotrailC14655+Avanti West CoastW3426812:48 Inverness station (INV)
6h28
19:16 Preston station (PRE)1 change
ScotrailC14655 · L88054+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+Transpennine ExpressW8487312:48 Inverness station (INV)
6h59
19:47 Preston station (PRE)3 changes
ScotrailC14813 · W83006+Avanti West CoastW3386114:50 Inverness station (INV)
6h26
21:16 Preston station (PRE)2 changes
ScotrailL88101 · W83039+Transpennine ExpressW8487715:44 Inverness station (INV)
7h01
22:45 Preston station (PRE)2 changes
ScotrailL88101+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+Avanti West CoastW3402615:44 Inverness station (INV)
6h53
22:37 Preston station (PRE)2 changes

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Inverness to Preston trains with Omio?

Scotrail as well as Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, Lumo 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 or Lumo 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 or Lumo 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.

Train companies: Scotrail, Lumo, Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway from Inverness to Preston trainsScotrail, Lumo, Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Inverness and Preston from £43. 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
5h 31m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£43
Scotrail frequency
4 a day
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

Lumo

About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
5h 51m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£44
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
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 30m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£75
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
5h 42m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£55
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Inverness and Preston

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Inverness to Preston.
Yes, there is a night train from Inverness to Preston.

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.

Plan your visit to Preston

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Preston.

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.

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.

FAQs
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.
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 3PYWifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

Train stations for Inverness to Preston

Check train stations information for Inverness and Preston, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Inverness that goes to Preston is Inverness, and it arrives at Preston.

More options for your journey from Inverness to Preston

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

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