- Must visit
The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum
Cheltenham's main museum and art gallery, covering local history, decorative arts and changing exhibitions in a central Regency building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Cheltenham
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 30 Aug
Cheapest price on 30 Aug
£95
Average ticket price on 30 Aug
£156
Fastest journey on 30 Aug
2 h 48 m
Average journey duration on 30 Aug
3 h 9 m
Trains on 30 Aug
2
Distance
176 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Cheltenham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Cheltenham will cost around £156 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £95.
Fast trains
To travel from Manchester to Cheltenham you need to make at least 2 changes.
W33110+
XC051700 · G01015 · W298699:203h30Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)12:50Cheltenham Spa (CNM)£951One-way3 changes- W33112+
W87917+G011428:202h48Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:08Cheltenham Spa (CNM)£2161One-way2 changes
- W33112+W87917+G011428:202h48Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:08Cheltenham Spa (CNM)£2161One-way2 changes
- W33110+XC051700 · G01015 · W298699:203h30Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)12:50Cheltenham Spa (CNM)£951One-way3 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Manchester to Cheltenham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Cheltenham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 52m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £14, while a train costs an average of £30.
Distance: 176 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£30 Average Price | £14 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 52m Average total duration Fastest 2h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration 4h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg 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
Manchester to Cheltenham train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cheltenham trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W33112+G01142+W87917 | 8:20 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h48 | 11:08 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 2 changes | |
| W33110+XC051700 · G01015 · W29869 | 9:20 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h30 | 12:50 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Cheltenham by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Sun
30 Aug
30 Aug
Mon
31 Aug
31 Aug
Tue
01 Sept
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
02 Sept
Thu
03 Sept
03 Sept
Fri
04 Sept
04 Sept
Sat
05 Sept
05 Sept
Why should you book Manchester to Cheltenham trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Manchester to Cheltenham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Cheltenham.
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 Cross Country or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Cheltenham.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Cheltenham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Cheltenham.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Cheltenham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Cheltenham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Cheltenham run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £15 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 176 km distance in 2h 24m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £9
Distance 176 km |
Average train duration 2h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price £15 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 24m |
First train 4:25 |
Last train 23:36 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £9
Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast from Manchester to Cheltenham trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Manchester and Cheltenham from £9. 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
2h 24m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£15
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
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
2h 24m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£146
Avanti West Coast 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
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
2h 24m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£144
Cross Country frequency
15 a day
Complete guide to Cheltenham
Things to do in Cheltenham
Discover the best of Cheltenham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cheltenham trip today.
- Recommended
Holst Victorian House Spa Museum
Museum in Pittville Pump Room exploring Cheltenham's spa history, with displays on mineral waters, visitors and Regency society.
- Recommended
Holst Victorian House
Composer Gustav Holst's birthplace, furnished with period rooms and musical displays that bring Victorian Cheltenham to life.
- Must visit
Imperial Gardens
Formal Regency gardens beside the Promenade, popular for walks, floral displays, events and views of historic Cheltenham buildings.
- Must visit
Pittville Park
Large ornamental park with lake, playgrounds and broad paths, ideal for relaxed walks near the famous Pump Room.
- Recommended
Montpellier
Leafy district known for Regency architecture, boutiques and garden spaces, offering one of Cheltenham's most elegant walking areas.
- Gluten-free
Gloucester Old Spot Pork
Gloucester Old Spot pork from a traditional local breed, often served as roast or sausages. It is closely linked to Gloucestershire farming heritage.
- Gluten-free
Gloucester Cheese
Single or double Gloucester is a historic local cheese from Gloucestershire, prized for its rich, creamy taste and long county tradition.
- Gluten-free
Stinking Bishop Cheese
A hard-pressed cow’s milk cheese from nearby Gloucestershire, traditionally matured for a full, nutty flavour and strong regional identity.
Le Champignon Sauvage
Refined modern British dining in elegant surroundings, known for polished tasting menus and carefully sourced seasonal ingredients.
Petit Coco
Long-established French bistro with a lively, relaxed feel. Known for steak frites, seafood and classic brasserie dishes.
The Ox
Stylish contemporary restaurant serving seasonal British cooking, craft drinks and brunch in a smart but informal setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining are pricier than smaller towns, but cheaper than London; local buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 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
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafés: rounding up is fine. Taxis: round up or tip about 10% for good service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Cheltenham Spa -> Cheltenham Town Centre, Promenade
- Distance
- 3.4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless payment is available on all Stagecoach buses in Cheltenham.
- Cheltenham local buses are operated by Stagecoach; buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app or on board.
FAQs: Manchester to Cheltenham train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Cheltenham can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £15, while the average price tends to be around £30.
The train journey from Manchester to Cheltenham covers a distance of 176 km and takes approximately 2h 24m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Cheltenham is 176 km.
The first train from Manchester to Cheltenham leaves at 4:25.
The last train from Manchester to Cheltenham departs at 23:36.
Trains from Manchester to Cheltenham run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Cheltenham.
Yes, there is a direct train between Manchester and Cheltenham. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To get from Manchester to Cheltenham, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Cheltenham.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Cheltenham is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), and it arrives at Cheltenham Spa (CNM).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Cheltenham is by coach, costing approximately £9.
Booking trains from Manchester to Cheltenham in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Manchester to Cheltenham offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with stretches through the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds, offering views of rolling hills and charming villages.
A day trip from Manchester to Cheltenham is not feasible due to a travel time of 2h 24m. However, trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 176 km.
In Cheltenham, you can attend the Cheltenham Literature Festival, enjoy a scenic walk or boat ride at Pittville Park, explore art at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, and experience horse racing at Cheltenham Racecourse. Discover vibrant cafes and boutique shops in Montpellier District. Key sights include the historic Pittville Pump Room, Sandford Parks Lido, and the Regency architecture of Montpellier District.
A stay of around two to three days in Cheltenham is ideal to enjoy its Regency architecture, explore the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty nearby, and visit attractions such as Pittville Park and the Holst Birthplace Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Cheltenham.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Cheltenham
Most Manchester to Cheltenham trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Cheltenham Spa station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Cheltenham train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Manchester
Arrival train stations in Cheltenham
Which Manchester station do trains to Cheltenham leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Cheltenham leave from Manchester Piccadilly. The station is 1 km from Manchester city centre at Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom.
Manchester PiccadillyPiccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Piccadilly from Manchester city centre
Bus201, 203, 202, 205 · 1m · £2 · every ~56 min
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · £2 · every ~47 min
Manchester Piccadilly train station facilities and services
Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester AirportManchester Airport station, Malaga Avenue, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M90 3RR
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · £4 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · £2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · £2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · £4 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · £4 · every ~8 min
Manchester Airport train station facilities and services
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, 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.
Manchester Oxford RoadManchester Oxford Road station, Station Approach, Oxford Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FU
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Oxford Road from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 5m · £2 · every ~224 min
T1 · 1h 7m
Manchester Oxford Road train station facilities and services
Manchester Oxford Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Cheltenham station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Cheltenham arrive at Cheltenham Spa. Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · £4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Cheltenham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cheltenham and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Cheltenham
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.
