- Recommended
Ancient High House
Historic townhouse museum with changing exhibitions on Stafford’s past, period rooms and displays on local people and trade.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Macclesfield to Stafford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Macclesfield to Stafford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £41 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 3m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £41, while a train costs an average of £41.
Distance: 51 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£41 Average Price Cheapest | £10 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 3m Average total duration Fastest 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Macclesfield to Stafford is a train with an average price of £41.
The fastest way to travel from Macclesfield to Stafford is by train with an average journey time of 33m.
Other travel options to Stafford take longer:
Coach takes on average 1h 20m.
Yes, you can take a train between Macclesfield and Stafford.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 30m sooner (33m by train vs 1h 3m by car). Tickets start at around £41 compared to roughly £10 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Macclesfield to Stafford by train
Compare 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.
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Why should you book Macclesfield to Stafford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Macclesfield to Stafford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Macclesfield to Stafford.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Macclesfield to Stafford.
- 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 Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Macclesfield to Stafford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Macclesfield to Stafford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Macclesfield to Stafford run on average 8 times per day, taking around 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £40 if you book in advance.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:43, the last at 23:04. The fastest train covers the 51 km distance in 32m.
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 51 km |
Average train duration 33m |
Cheapest ticket price £40 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 32m |
First train 5:43 |
Last train 23:04 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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: CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited from Macclesfield to Stafford trainsCrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Macclesfield and Stafford from £40. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 CrossCountry Duration
34m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£11
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
West Midlands Trains frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
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
35m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£63
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
32m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£40
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Trains Limited Duration
1h 10m
Northern Trains Limited frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Stafford
Things to do in Stafford
Discover the best of Stafford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stafford trip today.
- Recommended
Shire Hall Gallery
Town-centre art space in the Shire Hall showing temporary exhibitions, contemporary work and community-focused displays.
Lock House Museum
Small heritage museum in a restored lock cottage, explaining the county’s waterways through artefacts, models and canal history.
- Recommended
Victoria Park
Riverside park with open lawns, sports facilities, family space and a pleasant walk close to the centre.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic market square framed by civic buildings and shops, often used for events and an easy base for exploring Stafford.
- Recommended
Stafford Castle Meadows
Open green space beside the castle, good for short walks and views towards the ruins and surrounding countryside.
Staffordshire Oatcake with Cheese and Bacon
A savoury Staffordshire oatcake filled with melted cheese and bacon. It is a local staple from the Potteries and widely eaten across Staffordshire.
Staffordshire Oatcake
A plain Staffordshire oatcake served with butter or cheese. This soft oat pancake is one of the county’s most recognisable traditional foods.
- Vegetarian
Staffordshire Tea Loaf
A rich fruit loaf made with tea-soaked dried fruit and spices, then sliced and spread with butter. It is a long-standing tea-time favourite in Staffordshire.
Joxer Brasserie
Popular Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service. Lively yet comfortable for casual lunches and dinners.
The Dog House
Stylish restaurant in Stafford town centre serving modern British dishes, steaks and grills in a relaxed, polished setting.
The Soup Kitchen
Traditional pub and dining room known for British classics, cask ales and a historic atmosphere near Stafford town centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in London, while rail travel and central pub meals can still add up for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up in taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
MyStaffs
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £8.50
To the city centre
Stafford Railway Station -> Stafford Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10–15 min
- The Knot day ticket gives unlimited same-day travel on most Staffordshire bus operators for £8.50. Check your operator is included before you buy.
- Stafford Railway Station has a taxi rank, and National Rail states the town centre is about a 10–15 min walk away.
FAQs: Macclesfield to Stafford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Macclesfield to Stafford 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 Stafford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Macclesfield to Stafford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £40, while the average price tends to be around £41.
The train journey from Macclesfield to Stafford covers a distance of 51 km and takes approximately 32m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Macclesfield to Stafford is 51 km.
The first train from Macclesfield to Stafford leaves at 5:43.
The last train from Macclesfield to Stafford departs at 23:04.
Trains from Macclesfield to Stafford run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Macclesfield to Stafford.
Yes, there is a direct train between Macclesfield and Stafford. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast.
To travel from Macclesfield to Stafford, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Macclesfield to Stafford.
The train station in Macclesfield that goes to Stafford is Macclesfield station (MAC), and it arrives at Stafford station (STA).
The cheapest way to get from Macclesfield to Stafford is by train, costing approximately £40.
Booking trains from Macclesfield to Stafford 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 Stafford offers a pleasant view of the English countryside, with rolling hills and charming towns along the way, providing a scenic experience for travellers.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Macclesfield to Stafford. The journey takes 32m, covering a distance of 51 km, with trains running 6 times per day.
In Stafford, you can enjoy performances at the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, explore scenic walking trails along the River Sow, and visit the vibrant Stafford Farmers' Market. For a bit of history, visit Stafford Castle for panoramic views, or the Ancient High House for its period rooms. Shugborough Estate offers a glimpse into Georgian life with its mansion and gardens. Art enthusiasts can discover local works at the Shire Hall Gallery, while Victoria Park provides a relaxing space with floral displays and a café. Golfers can enjoy a round at Stafford Castle Golf Club, and the Staffordshire County Museum offers insights into local history.
To fully explore Stafford's main attractions such as the Ancient High House, Stafford Castle, and the surrounding countryside, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Macclesfield to Stafford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Macclesfield and Stafford
Most Macclesfield to Stafford trains use the Macclesfield to Stafford station pair. Use this guide to compare Macclesfield and Stafford 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 Stafford
Which Macclesfield station do trains to Stafford leave from?
Trains from Macclesfield to Stafford 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 Stafford station do trains from Macclesfield arrive at?
Trains from Macclesfield to Stafford arrive at Stafford. Stafford is from Stafford city centre.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.
Stafford train station facilities and services
Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stafford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stafford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stafford. 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 Stafford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: 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 may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
Most popular train connections from Macclesfield
More options for your journey from Macclesfield to Stafford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Stafford and Macclesfield
Most popular train connections to Stafford
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