- 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 Macclesfield to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 31 Aug
Cheapest price on 31 Aug
£14
Average ticket price on 31 Aug
£45
Fastest journey on 31 Aug
1 h 14 m
Average journey duration on 31 Aug
1 h 15 m
Trains on 31 Aug
44
Distance
69 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Macclesfield to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Macclesfield to Preston will cost around £45 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £14.
Fast trains
To travel from Macclesfield to Preston you need to make at least one change.
6:171h41Macclesfield7:58Preston£141One-way1 change- 8:171h40Macclesfield9:57Preston£141One-way1 change
- 20:171h35Macclesfield21:52Preston£141One-way1 change
- 21:171h33Macclesfield22:50Preston£141One-way1 change
7:061h21Macclesfield8:27Preston£351One-way1 change
9:431h14Macclesfield10:57Preston£761One-way1 change- 11:431h14Macclesfield12:57Preston£761One-way1 change
- 10:431h15Macclesfield11:58Preston£761One-way1 change
- 12:431h16Macclesfield13:59Preston£761One-way1 change
- 13:431h16Macclesfield14:59Preston£761One-way1 change
Live departures
Macclesfield to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Macclesfield to Preston trains for today, Sunday 30 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19:05 Macclesfield | 1h27 | 20:32 Preston | 1 change | |
| 19:43 Macclesfield | 1h18 | 21:01 Preston | 1 change | |
| 20:06 Macclesfield | 1h50 | 21:56 Preston | 1 change | |
| 20:43 Macclesfield | 1h16 | 21:59 Preston | 1 change | |
| 22:06 Macclesfield | 1h50 | 23:56 Preston | 1 change | |
| 23:52 Macclesfield | 5h42 | 5:34 Preston | 1 change | |
| Monday 31 August | |||||
| 6:17 Macclesfield | 1h41 | 7:58 Preston | 1 change | |
| 7:06 Macclesfield | 1h21 | 8:27 Preston | 1 change | |
| 7:37 Macclesfield | 1h20 | 8:57 Preston | 1 change | |
| 8:06 Macclesfield | 1h20 | 9:26 Preston | 1 change | |
| 8:17 Macclesfield | 1h40 | 9:57 Preston | 1 change | |
| 8:43 Macclesfield | 1h17 | 10:00 Preston | 1 change | |
| 9:06 Macclesfield | 1h20 | 10:26 Preston | 1 change | |
| 9:37 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 10:56 Preston | 1 change | |
| 9:43 Macclesfield | 1h14 | 10:57 Preston | 1 change | |
| 10:06 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 11:25 Preston | 1 change | |
| 10:37 Macclesfield | 1h20 | 11:57 Preston | 1 change | |
| 10:43 Macclesfield | 1h15 | 11:58 Preston | 1 change | |
| 11:06 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 12:25 Preston | 1 change | |
| 11:37 Macclesfield | 1h20 | 12:57 Preston | 1 change | |
| 11:43 Macclesfield | 1h14 | 12:57 Preston | 1 change | |
| 12:06 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 13:25 Preston | 1 change | |
| 12:37 Macclesfield | 1h20 | 13:57 Preston | 1 change | |
| 12:43 Macclesfield | 1h16 | 13:59 Preston | 1 change | |
| 13:06 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 14:25 Preston | 1 change | |
| 13:37 Macclesfield | 1h21 | 14:58 Preston | 1 change | |
| 13:43 Macclesfield | 1h16 | 14:59 Preston | 1 change | |
| 14:06 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 15:25 Preston | 1 change | |
| 14:37 Macclesfield | 1h21 | 15:58 Preston | 1 change | |
| 14:43 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 16:02 Preston | 1 change | |
| 15:06 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 16:25 Preston | 1 change | |
| 15:37 Macclesfield | 1h20 | 16:57 Preston | 1 change | |
| 15:43 Macclesfield | 1h18 | 17:01 Preston | 1 change | |
| 16:06 Macclesfield | 1h21 | 17:27 Preston | 1 change | |
| 16:37 Macclesfield | 1h21 | 17:58 Preston | 1 change | |
| 16:43 Macclesfield | 1h16 | 17:59 Preston | 1 change | |
| 17:06 Macclesfield | 1h21 | 18:27 Preston | 1 change | |
| 17:37 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 18:56 Preston | 1 change | |
| 17:43 Macclesfield | 1h19 | 19:02 Preston | 1 change | |
| 18:06 Macclesfield | 1h22 | 19:28 Preston | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Macclesfield to Preston by train
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Why should you book Macclesfield to Preston trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Macclesfield to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Macclesfield to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Macclesfield 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.
Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Macclesfield to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Macclesfield to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Macclesfield to Preston run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £14 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:23, the last at 23:26. The fastest train covers the 69 km distance in 1h 14m.
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 69 km |
Average train duration 1h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price £14 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 1h 14m |
First train 5:23 |
Last train 23:26 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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: Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited from Macclesfield to Preston trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Macclesfield and Preston from £14. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
1h 33m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£14
Northern Rail frequency
7 a day
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
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
1h 23m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£29
Transpennine Express frequency
2 a day
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
1h 14m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£76
Avanti West Coast frequency
8 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
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
1h 18m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£35
Cross Country frequency
15 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Trains Limited Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Northern Trains Limited Price
£14
Northern Trains Limited 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: Macclesfield to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £14, while the average price tends to be around £47.
The train journey from Macclesfield to Preston covers a distance of 69 km and takes approximately 1h 14m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Macclesfield to Preston is 69 km.
The first train from Macclesfield to Preston leaves at 5:23.
The last train from Macclesfield to Preston departs at 23:26.
Trains from Macclesfield to Preston run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Macclesfield to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Macclesfield to Preston.
To travel from Macclesfield to Preston, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Macclesfield to Preston.
The train station in Macclesfield that goes to Preston is Macclesfield station (MAC), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Macclesfield to Preston is by train, costing approximately £14.
Booking trains from Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the rolling hills of the Peak District, charming towns, and glimpses of the countryside, providing a pleasant and varied scenic experience.
Yes, a day trip from Macclesfield to Preston is feasible with a travel duration of 1h 14m and a distance of 69 km. Trains run 7 times per day.
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 Macclesfield to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Macclesfield and Preston
Most Macclesfield to Preston trains use the Macclesfield to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Macclesfield and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Macclesfield
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Macclesfield station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Macclesfield to Preston leave from Macclesfield. The station is from Macclesfield city centre at Macclesfield station, Waters Green, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 6JP.
MacclesfieldMacclesfield station, Waters Green, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 6JP
City-centre transport
Getting to Macclesfield from Macclesfield city centre
Bus391 · 3m · every ~1 min
Macclesfield train station facilities and services
Macclesfield has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Macclesfield.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Macclesfield.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Macclesfield.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Macclesfield: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Macclesfield: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Macclesfield: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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 Macclesfield arrive at?
Trains from Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield
More options for your journey from Macclesfield to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Macclesfield
Most popular train connections to Preston
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