- 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 Lancaster to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 31 Aug
Cheapest price on 31 Aug
£9
Average ticket price on 31 Aug
£10
Fastest journey on 31 Aug
17 m
Average journey duration on 31 Aug
17 m
Trains on 31 Aug
6
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lancaster to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lancaster to Preston will cost around £10 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £9.
Fast trains
On Mon 31 Aug, we found 6 trains from Lancaster to Preston, including 6 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 34 km distance in an average of 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 17 m .
The slowest trains will take 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.
W848968:280h18Lancaster station (LAN)8:46Preston station (PRE)£91One-way0 changes- W848999:290h18Lancaster station (LAN)9:47Preston station (PRE)£91One-way0 changes
W342658:590h17Lancaster station (LAN)9:16Preston station (PRE)£101One-way0 changes- W340289:400h17Lancaster station (LAN)9:57Preston station (PRE)£101One-way0 changes
- W341818:410h17Lancaster station (LAN)8:58Preston station (PRE)£101One-way0 changes
- W342658:590h17Lancaster station (LAN)9:16Preston station (PRE)£101One-way0 changes
- W340289:400h17Lancaster station (LAN)9:57Preston station (PRE)£101One-way0 changes
- W341818:410h17Lancaster station (LAN)8:58Preston station (PRE)£101One-way0 changes
G898828:480h18Lancaster station (LAN)9:06Preston station (PRE)£101One-way0 changes- W848968:280h18Lancaster station (LAN)8:46Preston station (PRE)£91One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Lancaster to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lancaster to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £7 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 48m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £7, while a coach costs an average of £9.
Distance: 34 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£7 Average Price Cheapest | £9 Average Price |
48m Average total duration Fastest 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 13m Average total duration 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Lancaster to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Lancaster to Preston trains for tomorrow, Monday 31 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W84896 | 8:28 Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 8:46 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W34181 | 8:41 Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 8:58 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G89882 | 8:48 Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 9:06 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W34265 | 8:59 Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 9:16 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W84899 | 9:29 Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 9:47 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W34028 | 9:40 Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 9:57 Preston station (PRE) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lancaster to Preston by coach or train
Compare coach and 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.
Mon
31 Aug
31 Aug
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01 Sept
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
02 Sept
Thu
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06 Sept
06 Sept
Why should you book Lancaster to Preston trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Avanti West Coast or Northern Rail offer trains services from Lancaster to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lancaster to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from Lancaster 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lancaster to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from Lancaster to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Lancaster to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lancaster to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Lancaster to Preston run on average 8 times per day, taking around 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 23:26. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 17m.
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 34 km |
Average train duration 18m |
Cheapest ticket price £5 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 17m |
First train 5:13 |
Last train 23:26 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 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: Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail from Lancaster to Preston trainsTranspennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail trains will get you between Lancaster and Preston from £5. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
19m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£5
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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
17m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£10
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
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
18m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£5
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
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 dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
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: Lancaster to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £5, while the average price tends to be around £7.
The train journey from Lancaster to Preston covers a distance of 34 km and takes approximately 17m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Lancaster to Preston is 34 km.
The first train from Lancaster to Preston leaves at 5:13.
The last train from Lancaster to Preston departs at 23:26.
Trains from Lancaster to Preston run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Lancaster to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lancaster to Preston.
To get from Lancaster to Preston, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Lancaster to Preston.
The train station in Lancaster that goes to Preston is Lancaster station (LAN), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Lancaster to Preston is by train, costing approximately £5.
Booking trains from Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Preston offers scenic views of the English countryside, with glimpses of rolling hills, lush fields, and the picturesque River Lune along the route.
Yes, a day trip from Lancaster to Preston is possible, with trains running 7 times per day and a travel duration of 17m. The distance is 34 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 Lancaster to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Lancaster and Preston
Most Lancaster to Preston trains use the Lancaster to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Lancaster and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lancaster
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Lancaster station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Lancaster to Preston leave from Lancaster. The station is 3 km from Lancaster city centre at Lancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NW.
LancasterLancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NW
City-centre transport
Getting to Lancaster from Lancaster city centre
Lancaster is 2 km from Lancaster city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthwest Chief · 65h 2m · £844
Pennsylvanian · 17h 47m · £422
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 65h 11m · £740
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 75h 46m · £948
BusGreyhound US1210 · 69h 20m · £498
Lancaster train station facilities and services
Lancaster has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lancaster.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lancaster. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 Lancaster: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lancaster: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lancaster: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Lifts to All Platforms, accessible via taking the right hand entrance to the over bridge from the ticket office, 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 Lancaster arrive at?
Trains from Lancaster 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.
More options for your journey from Lancaster to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Lancaster
Most popular train connections to Preston
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