Ipswich to Manchester train with Avanti West Coast

Thu 21 May
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Greater Anglia
East Midlands Railway
London North Eastern Railway
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Greater Anglia
East Midlands Railway
London North Eastern Railway
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Ipswich to Manchester

Showing times and prices for 21 May

Cheapest price

£77

Average price

£91

Fastest journey

4 h 9 m

Average duration

4 h 57 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

278 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Ipswich to Manchester will cost around £91 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £77.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Ipswich for Manchester every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 278 km distance in an average of 4 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 9 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 17 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
    6:186h17
    Ipswich
    12:35Manchester
    £771One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    7:434h22
    Ipswich
    12:05Manchester
    £831One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    8:434h22
    Ipswich
    13:05Manchester
    £851One-way
    0 changes
  • East Midlands Railway
    10:015h34
    Ipswich
    15:35Manchester
    £881One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    14:104h09
    Ipswich
    18:19Manchester
    £1221One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Ipswich to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ipswich to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £36, and a flight costs an average of £54.

Distance: 278 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£90

Average Price

£57

Average Price

Cheapest

£161

Average Price

4h 53m

Average total duration

4h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 5m

Average total duration

7h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 5m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 1.7kg

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Ipswich to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Ipswich to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Thursday 21 May. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
East Midlands Railway6:18 Ipswich
6h17
12:35 Manchester0 changesdirect
Avanti West Coast7:43 Ipswich
4h22
12:05 Manchester0 changesdirect
Avanti West Coast8:43 Ipswich
4h22
13:05 Manchester0 changesdirect
East Midlands Railway10:01 Ipswich
5h34
15:35 Manchester0 changesdirect
Avanti West Coast14:10 Ipswich
4h09
18:19 Manchester0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Ipswich to Manchester 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.

Thu
21 May
Fri
22 May
Sat
23 May
Sun
24 May
Mon
25 May
Tue
26 May
Wed
27 May

Why should you book Ipswich to Manchester trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry and more offer trains services from Ipswich to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Ipswich 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ipswich to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Ipswich to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Ipswich to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Ipswich to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Ipswich to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 278 km distance in 4h 3m.

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
278 km
Average train duration
4h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
£24
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 3m
First train
0:07
Last train
23:44
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
14 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: Avanti West Coast, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry from Ipswich to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Ipswich and Manchester from £24. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 Duration
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
£44
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

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 36m
Cheapest Price
£79
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class 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 require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone

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 Duration
5h 22m
Cheapest Price
£24
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

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 Duration
5h 9m
Cheapest Price
£124
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

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 Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest Price
£75
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
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

FAQs: Ipswich to Manchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Manchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £90.
The train journey from Ipswich to Manchester covers a distance of 278 km and takes approximately 4h 3m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Ipswich to Manchester is 278 km.
The first train from Ipswich to Manchester leaves at 0:07.
The last train from Ipswich to Manchester departs at 23:44.
Trains from Ipswich to Manchester run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Ipswich to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Ipswich to Manchester.
To get from Ipswich to Manchester, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Ipswich to Manchester.
The train station in Ipswich that goes to Manchester is Ipswich station (IPS), and it arrives at Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Ipswich to Manchester is by train, costing approximately £24.
Booking trains from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Manchester offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of quaint villages, rolling countryside, and the scenic Peak District as you approach Manchester, providing a pleasant and varied travel experience.
A day trip from Ipswich to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 3m each way. However, there are 5 train journeys available per day. The distance between the two locations is 278 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 Ipswich to Manchester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Ipswich and Manchester

Ipswich
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Ipswich is Ipswich. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Ipswich for your trip from Ipswich to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 21:20 Saturday 05:00 - 21:20 Sunday 07:20 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent Passport Photo Booth
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
  • Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
  • 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: Toilets including accessible (radar key) toilets are located alongside platform 2
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Close to platform 1
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Ipswich
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at bus stop on station forecourt.
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
  • 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
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: Platforms 1 and 2
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Derby Road
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at bus stop on Derby Road, near the Station Hotel

More options for your journey from Ipswich to Manchester

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

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Manchester Ipswich to Manchester train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone