- Recommended
Ilfracombe Museum
The town museum covers Ilfracombe's maritime, railway and social history through local artefacts, archives and changing displays.
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Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Manchester to Ilfracombe
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Ilfracombe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £47 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 59m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £47, while a flight costs an average of £93.
Distance: 283 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£53 Average Price | £93 Average Price | £47 Average Price Cheapest | £69 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 51m Average total duration 5h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 59m Average total duration Fastest 59m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 10h 15m Average total duration 9h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Ilfracombe is a coach with an average price of £47.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Ilfracombe:
A coach is £6 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Ilfracombe costing on average £53.
A coach is £46 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Ilfracombe costing on average £93.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Ilfracombe is by flight with an average journey time of 59m.
Other travel options to Ilfracombe take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 21m.
Coach takes on average 9h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Ilfracombe including taking a coach, train and flight.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £53 compared to roughly £69 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £17. The journey takes 5h 21m versus 5h 5m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Ilfracombe by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train 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.
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Why should you book Manchester to Ilfracombe trains with Omio?
CrossCountry operates all trains services from Manchester to Ilfracombe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Ilfracombe.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Ilfracombe.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Ilfracombe.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Ilfracombe
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Ilfracombe run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £25 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:03, the last at 14:25. The fastest train covers the 283 km distance in 6h 0m.
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 283 km |
Average train duration 5h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price £25 |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 6h 0m |
First train 6:03 |
Last train 14:25 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 from Manchester to Ilfracombe trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Manchester and Ilfracombe from £25. 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
6h 0m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£25
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
Complete guide to Ilfracombe
Things to do in Ilfracombe
Discover the best of Ilfracombe — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ilfracombe trip today.
- Recommended
The Quay Gallery
A harbour-side gallery showing Damien Hirst works and selected contemporary art in a compact but high-profile local venue.
Lee Art Gallery
An artist-led gallery with exhibitions, studios and workshops, making it a good stop for contemporary North Devon art.
- Must visit
Ilfracombe Harbour
Ilfracombe's working harbour is the town's social centre, with sea views, boats, coastal walks and easy access to key sights.
- Recommended
Tunnels Beaches
This hand-carved tunnel route leads to a sheltered beach and tidal pool, combining Victorian engineering with dramatic scenery.
- Recommended
Capstone Hill
A grassy cliff-top park with paths, sea views and picnic space, popular for relaxed walks above the beach and coast.
- Gluten-free
Devon Fish Stew
A rich fish stew from North Devon, made with mixed local fish and shellfish. A classic way to taste the area’s coastal catch.
- Gluten-free
North Devon Lobster
Fresh Atlantic lobster landed on the North Devon coast, usually simply grilled or dressed to highlight the quality of local seafood.
- Gluten-free
Dressed Crab
Sweet crab from nearby waters, often served dressed, in sandwiches or with salad. It is a staple of Devon’s seaside food culture.
The Quay Restaurant
Harbour-side seafood restaurant known for fresh local fish and shellfish in a relaxed brasserie setting.
S&P Fish Shop
Well-known harbour area fish and chip shop for classic takeaway suppers, including fresh local fish.
The Aquarius
Long-established restaurant and bar with sea views, offering seafood and British dishes in a smart but informal setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: stays and dining cost more in peak season, while local buses are manageable and budget eats are available.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple café meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional; small change is fine.
FAQs: Manchester to Ilfracombe train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Ilfracombe can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £25, while the average price tends to be around £53.
The train journey from Manchester to Ilfracombe covers a distance of 283 km and takes approximately 6h 0m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Ilfracombe is 283 km.
The first train from Manchester to Ilfracombe leaves at 6:03.
The last train from Manchester to Ilfracombe departs at 14:25.
Trains from Manchester to Ilfracombe run approximately 12 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Ilfracombe.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Ilfracombe.
To get from Manchester to Ilfracombe, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Ilfracombe.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Ilfracombe is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), and it arrives at Barnstaple station (BNP).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Ilfracombe is by train, costing approximately £25.
Booking trains from Manchester to Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe offers picturesque views of the English countryside, especially as it approaches the scenic landscapes of North Devon. Passengers can enjoy sights of rolling hills, quaint villages, and coastal vistas, making it a visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Manchester to Ilfracombe is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 0m, covering a distance of 283 km. There are 14 train trips available per day.
To fully experience Ilfracombe's charming coastal scenery, historic harbour, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Ilfracombe.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Ilfracombe
Most Manchester to Ilfracombe trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Barnstaple station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe
Which Manchester station do trains to Ilfracombe leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Ilfracombe 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.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Ilfracombe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ilfracombe and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Ilfracombe
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