- Must visit
Folkestone Artworks
An outdoor public art collection spread across the town, featuring permanent works by contemporary artists in everyday settings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Folkestone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept
Cheapest price on 19 Sept
£109
Average ticket price on 19 Sept
£114
Fastest journey on 19 Sept
4 h 7 m
Average journey duration on 19 Sept
4 h 20 m
Trains on 19 Sept
3
Distance
354 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Folkestone will cost around £114 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £109.
Fast trains
On Sat 19 Sept, we found 3 trains from Manchester to Folkestone, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 354 km distance in an average of 4 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 7 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 45 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.
9:144h45Manchester13:59Folkestone£1091One-way0 changes- 14:344h07Manchester18:41Folkestone£1161One-way0 changes
- 8:344h07Manchester12:41Folkestone£1171One-way0 changes
- 8:344h07Manchester12:41Folkestone£1171One-way0 changes
- 14:344h07Manchester18:41Folkestone£1161One-way0 changes
- 9:144h45Manchester13:59Folkestone£1091One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Manchester to Folkestone
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Folkestone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 50m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £42, while a flight costs an average of £361.
Distance: 354 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£134 Average Price | £42 Average Price Cheapest | £361 Average Price | £71 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 3h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 1m Average total duration 8h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 54m Average total duration 1h 54m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Folkestone is a coach with an average price of £42.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Folkestone:
A coach is £92 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Folkestone costing on average £134.
A coach is £319 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Folkestone costing on average £361.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Folkestone is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 54m.
Other travel options to Folkestone take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 20m.
Coach takes on average 8h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Folkestone including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 49m sooner (3h 20m by train vs 5h 9m by car). Tickets start at around £134 compared to roughly £71 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.
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.
Live departures
Manchester to Folkestone train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Folkestone trains for tomorrow, Saturday 19 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:34 Manchester | 4h07 | 12:41 Folkestone | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:14 Manchester | 4h45 | 13:59 Folkestone | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:34 Manchester | 4h07 | 18:41 Folkestone | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Folkestone by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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.
Sat
19 Sept
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Why should you book Manchester to Folkestone trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Manchester to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Folkestone.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Folkestone run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £80 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 22:01. The fastest train covers the 354 km distance in 4h 7m.
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 £19
Distance 354 km |
Average train duration 3h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price £80 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 7m |
First train 4:40 |
Last train 22:01 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £19
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Manchester to Folkestone trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Manchester and Folkestone from £19. 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
4h 7m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£80
Avanti West Coast frequency
12 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
Complete guide to Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
A local history museum in the old town covering Folkestone's past, from seaside life to wartime and archaeology.
- Recommended
Folkestone Arts
A contemporary art venue in a former church, showing changing exhibitions by British and international artists.
- Must visit
The Leas
A broad clifftop promenade with sea views, gardens and major public artworks, ideal for a classic Folkestone walk.
- Must visit
Folkestone Harbour Arm
A revitalised waterfront pier and promenade popular for strolling, sea air, events and views across the harbour.
- Recommended
Creative Quarter
A creative quarter of lanes and workshops with independent shops, murals and regular cultural events in the old centre.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed from the Channel, usually simply grilled or pan-fried. It is a Kent coast classic prized for its sweet, delicate flesh.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Whitstable or Kent oysters are widely eaten along this coast, served raw with lemon. They reflect the long shellfish tradition of the Kent shoreline.
Kent Fish Stew
A rich fish stew from Kentish fishing communities, made with mixed local fish and shellfish in a savoury broth. It showcases the catch from nearby waters.
Marleys
Well-known bistro and wine bar in the old high street area, offering seasonal small plates and a cosy, contemporary setting.
Hatch
Popular independent café and brunch spot on the Harbour Arm, serving coffee, breakfasts and casual plates in a lively seaside atmosphere.
The Smokehouse
Long-established seafood smokehouse and deli near the harbour, known for smoked fish, shellfish and simple coastal meals.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: dining is manageable, but hotels in peak season can rise; local buses are reasonably priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- 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
Service is sometimes included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares; cafés may use tip jars, but tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city centre
Folkestone Central -> Folkestone Town Centre
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Stagecoach runs Folkestone's local buses. Buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app before boarding for quicker travel.
- Folkestone Central is outside the core shopping area; allow about 10 min on foot to Bouverie Place and the town centre.
FAQs: Manchester to Folkestone train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Folkestone can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £88, while the average price tends to be around £134.
The train journey from Manchester to Folkestone covers a distance of 354 km and takes approximately 3h 6m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Folkestone is 354 km.
The first train from Manchester to Folkestone leaves at 4:40.
The last train from Manchester to Folkestone departs at 22:01.
Trains from Manchester to Folkestone run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Folkestone.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Folkestone.
To get from Manchester to Folkestone, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Folkestone.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Folkestone is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), and it arrives at Folkestone West (FKW).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Folkestone is by coach, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Manchester to Folkestone 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 Folkestone offers varied scenery, including views of the rolling countryside, charming towns, and glimpses of the coast as you approach Folkestone.
A day trip from Manchester to Folkestone isn't feasible as the journey duration is 3h 6m. However, there are 5 trains per day covering a distance of 354 km.
A two to three-day visit to Folkestone is ideal to explore its coastal attractions, enjoy the Creative Quarter, and take leisurely walks along the Harbour Arm.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Folkestone.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Folkestone
Most Manchester to Folkestone trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone West station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Folkestone 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 Folkestone
Which Manchester station do trains to Folkestone leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Folkestone 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.
Which Folkestone station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Folkestone arrive at Folkestone West. Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · £0.90 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · £3 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including 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 Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step Free access to Platform 1 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Folkestone and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Folkestone
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