- Must visit
North Hertfordshire Museum
Local museum covering Hitchin's archaeology, social history and market town life, with family-friendly displays in the centre.
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Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Manchester to Hitchin
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Hitchin among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £54 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 26m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £54, while a train costs an average of £74.
Distance: 216 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£74 Average Price | £54 Average Price Cheapest | £43 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 26m Average total duration Fastest 2h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 10m Average total duration 5h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Hitchin is a coach with an average price of £54.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Hitchin:
A coach is £20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Hitchin costing on average £74.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Hitchin is by train with an average journey time of 2h 56m.
Other travel options to Hitchin take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Hitchin including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 30m sooner (2h 56m by train vs 3h 26m by car). Tickets start at around £74 compared to roughly £43 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.
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Hitchin 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.
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Why should you book Manchester to Hitchin trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Manchester to Hitchin.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Hitchin.
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 London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Hitchin.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Hitchin.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Hitchin.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Hitchin.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Hitchin
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Hitchin run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £74 but you can travel from only £54 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 01:40, the last at 23:33. The fastest train covers the 216 km distance in 3h 27m.
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 £54
Distance 216 km |
Average train duration 2h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £74 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 27m |
First train 1:40 |
Last train 23:33 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 £54
Train companies: Transpennine Express, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Manchester to Hitchin trainsTranspennine Express, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Manchester and Hitchin from £54. 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
3h 27m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£74
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
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
London North Eastern Railway frequency
3 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
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 pets 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
2h 44m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£180
Avanti West Coast frequency
15 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
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£177
Transport for Wales frequency
9 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Trains Limited Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Northern Trains Limited Price
£178
Northern Trains Limited frequency
9 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
9h 10m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
£191
TransPennine Express frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Hitchin
Things to do in Hitchin
Discover the best of Hitchin — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Hitchin trip today.
- Recommended
Hitchin Art Hub
Community art space and gallery in the old town, presenting changing exhibitions and a strong focus on local artists.
- Recommended
Broadway Gallery
Contemporary gallery in nearby Letchworth showing modern and regional art in a calm setting suitable for a short cultural visit.
- Must visit
Hitchin Market Place
Traditional market-centre street and square area with independent shops, historic buildings and a lively town atmosphere.
- Recommended
Bancroft Gardens
Linear green park with paths, open grass and play areas, popular for walks and easy access from the town centre.
- Recommended
Windmill Hill
Large public common with mature trees, sports space and room to stroll, giving a relaxed local contrast to the old town.
Hertfordshire Cucumber Soup
A traditional Hertfordshire soup made with cucumbers, herbs and stock, linked to the county’s historic market gardens and often served warm or chilled.
Toad in the Hole
Classic English sausages in Yorkshire pudding batter, a familiar pub staple in Hertfordshire and a reliable local comfort dish.
Sunday Roast Beef
Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and gravy is a classic Sunday meal widely eaten in Hitchin pubs and homes.
Mevan Restaurant & Bar
Popular Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant serving grilled meats, meze and warm hospitality in a lively dining room.
Lussmanns
Smart restaurant in Hitchin centre serving modern British dishes and seasonal tasting menus in a relaxed, polished setting.
Hitchin Kitchen
Well-known Hitchin café and brunch spot for hearty breakfasts, coffee and homemade cakes in a busy, friendly setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for southern England. Hotels and dining cost more than in smaller UK towns, but 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 optional. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.
FAQs: Manchester to Hitchin train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Hitchin 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 Hitchin, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Hitchin can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £74, while the average price tends to be around £74.
The train journey from Manchester to Hitchin covers a distance of 216 km and takes approximately 3h 27m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Hitchin is 216 km.
The first train from Manchester to Hitchin leaves at 1:40.
The last train from Manchester to Hitchin departs at 23:33.
Trains from Manchester to Hitchin run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Hitchin.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Hitchin.
To get from Manchester to Hitchin, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Hitchin.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Hitchin is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), and it arrives at Hitchin station (HIT).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Hitchin is by coach, costing approximately £54.
Booking trains from Manchester to Hitchin 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 Hitchin offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with scenic stretches particularly noticeable as the train travels through the rolling hills and green landscapes of the Midlands.
A day trip from Manchester to Hitchin is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 27m. There are 5 train services per day covering a distance of 216 km.
You typically need 1 to 2 days in Hitchin to explore its charming market town atmosphere, visit the British Schools Museum, and enjoy the local shops and cafes.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Hitchin.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Hitchin
Most Manchester to Hitchin trains use the Manchester Victoria to Hitchin station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Hitchin 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 Hitchin
Which Manchester station do trains to Hitchin leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Hitchin 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 VictoriaManchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WY
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Victoria from Manchester city centre
TrainManchester Airport - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Saltburn, Manchester Airport - York, Manchester Piccadilly - York, Manchester Piccadilly - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Darlington, Manchester Airport - Sheffield, Liverpool Lime Street - Manchester Victoria, Manchester Airport - Scarborough, Manchester Airport - Hull, Manchester Airport - Huddersfield, Manchester Airport - Middlesbrough, Manchester Airport - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Leeds, Manchester Airport - Manchester Victoria · 10m · £0.90 · every ~3 min
Bus41, 135 · 5m · £2 · every ~32 min
T1 · 10m
X43 · 29m · every ~1 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 5m · £2 · every ~23 min
Manchester Victoria train station facilities and services
Manchester Victoria 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 Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Victoria.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Step free access around the whole station via use of lifts between platforms 3-6, connection with Manchester Metrolink using ramps, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards Located near the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Hitchin station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Hitchin arrive at Hitchin. Hitchin is from Hitchin city centre.
HitchinHitchin station, Walsworth Road, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG4 9UL
City-centre transport
Getting to Hitchin from Hitchin city centre
Bus98, 97, 97B · 12m · £2 · every ~4 min
97, 98, 97B · 17m · £4 · every ~4 min
Hitchin train station facilities and services
Hitchin has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Hitchin.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Hitchin. ATMs are available at Hitchin.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hitchin.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hitchin: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Hitchin: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hitchin: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the the front of the station next to the night gate, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Great Northern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Hitchin
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Hitchin and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Hitchin
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