Manchester to Inverness train with ScotRail

Fri 02 Jan
+ Add return
ScotRail
LNER
TransPennine Express
Caledonian Sleeper
first_transpennine_express
1,000+ travel companies
ScotRail
LNER
TransPennine Express
Caledonian Sleeper
first_transpennine_express
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Inverness

Showing times and prices for 03 Jan

Cheapest price

£125

Average price

£125

Fastest journey

9 h 43 m

Average duration

10 h 46 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

462 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Manchester to Inverness will cost around £125 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £125.

Fast trains

To travel from Manchester to Inverness you need to make at least 2 changes.

TransPennine ExpressC43720 · TP037100+CrossCountryC75458+ScotRailY39144
03:0010h25
Manchester Victoria (MCV)
13:25Inverness station (INV)
£1251One-way
4 changes
TransPennine ExpressC43720 · TP037100+CrossCountryC75458+ScotRailY38784
03:0011h15
Manchester Victoria (MCV)
14:15Inverness station (INV)
£1251One-way
3 changes
Northern Rail (3)L07012+CrossCountryC74837+ScotRailY38788
05:4611h16
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
17:02Inverness station (INV)
£1251One-way
2 changes
Northern Rail (3)L07012+CrossCountryC74837+ScotRailY39159 · Y38803
05:469h43
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
15:29Inverness station (INV)
£1251One-way
3 changes
Northern Rail (3)G90619+TransPennine ExpressTP036300+LNERY11928+ScotRailY38788
05:5111h11
Manchester Victoria (MCV)
17:02Inverness station (INV)
£1251One-way
3 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Manchester to Inverness

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £18. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £18, and a flight costs an average of £82.

Distance: 462 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach
Flight

£120

Average Price

£47

Average Price

Cheapest

£213

Average Price

8h 11m

Average total duration

7h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 48m

Average total duration

8h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 0m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 2.8kg

CO2 emissions

ScotRail

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Azul

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Manchester to Inverness train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Inverness trains for today, Friday 2 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 00:25
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
scotrail07:08 Manchester
8h54
16:02 Inverness0 changesdirect
scotrail07:09 Manchester
8h53
16:02 Inverness0 changesdirect
scotrail07:13 Manchester
8h49
16:02 Inverness0 changesdirect
scotrail08:00 Manchester
8h02
16:02 Inverness0 changesdirect
scotrail13:45 Manchester
8h34
22:19 Inverness0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Inverness 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
03 Jan
Sun
04 Jan
Mon
05 Jan
Tue
06 Jan
Wed
07 Jan
Thu
08 Jan
Fri
09 Jan
Sat
10 Jan
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11 Jan
Mon
12 Jan
Tue
13 Jan
Wed
14 Jan
Thu
15 Jan
Fri
16 Jan

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Manchester to Inverness?

The best time to book your train from Manchester to Inverness is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Manchester to Inverness route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Manchester to Inverness per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Manchester to Inverness.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Inverness

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Inverness run on average 5 times per day, taking around 7h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £55 but you can travel from only £18 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:07, the last at 18:52. The fastest train covers the 462 km distance in 7h 42m.

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 £18
Distance
462 km
Average train duration
7h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
£55
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
7h 42m
First train
04:07
Last train
18:52
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 £18

Train companies: ScotRail, LNER, TransPennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, first_transpennine_express from Manchester to Inverness trainsScotRail, LNER, TransPennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, first_transpennine_express trains will get you between Manchester and Inverness from £18. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

ScotRail

About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 30m
Cheapest Price
£120
ScotRail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone

LNER

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
Average Duration
7h 42m
Cheapest Price
£55
LNER 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
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

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 Duration
8h 40m
Cheapest Price
£80
TransPennine Express frequency
1 a day
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

Caledonian Sleeper

About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 37m
Cheapest Price
£142
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

first_transpennine_express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 38m
Cheapest Price
£146
first_transpennine_express frequency
4 a day

FAQs: Manchester to Inverness train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Inverness 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 Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Three to four days in Inverness is ideal for exploring the city's highlights, including the historic Inverness Castle, the picturesque River Ness, and nearby attractions like Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield.
In Inverness, you can explore local history and art at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, enjoy performances at Eden Court Theatre, and take a scenic walk through Ness Islands. Discover the historic Caledonian Canal by boat or on foot, and explore the natural beauty of Merkinch Local Nature Reserve. Visit best sights like Inverness Castle for panoramic views, the famous Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield with its visitor centre, the impressive Inverness Cathedral, and the ancient Clava Cairns.
The train distance from Manchester to Inverness is 462 km.
The train journey from Manchester to Inverness offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands, showcasing picturesque landscapes and natural beauty.
The train journey from Manchester to Inverness covers a distance of 462 km and takes approximately 7h 42m. Trains run 5 per day.
The first train from Manchester to Inverness leaves at 4:07.
The last train from Manchester to Inverness departs at 18:52.
Trains from Manchester to Inverness run approximately 5 times per day.
To get from Manchester to Inverness, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Inverness.
Yes, there is a night train from Manchester to Inverness.
A day trip from Manchester to Inverness is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 42m. However, there are 5 trains per day. The distance is 462 km.
Booking trains from Manchester to Inverness in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Inverness can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £55, while the average price tends to be around £120.
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Inverness is by coach, costing approximately £18.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Inverness is Manchester Oxford Road (MCO), and it arrives at Inverness station (INV).
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Inverness.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Inverness.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Inverness

Manchester
Inverness
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Manchester Oxford Road. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Oxford Road for your trip from Manchester to Inverness.
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:40 Sunday 07:30 - 22:00
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: There will be no toilet provision at Manchester Oxford Road from 15th July to 25th July to allow for existing toilets to be refurbished
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: on Platform 4/5
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Manchester Oxford Road
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stops on Whitworth St West (200 yards from station) (station side for Liverpool, opposite side for Piccadilly)
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
  • Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Caffè Nero
  • Carluccio’s
  • Hotel Chocolat
  • Starbucks
  • The Pasty Shop
  • Costa Coffee
  • Pret a Manger
  • Upper Crust
  • McDonald's
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Hotel
Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
  • Premier Inn Manchester City
  • Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
  • Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Public transport options for Manchester Piccadilly
  • Bus lines: 1, 2, 3, 147
  • Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:00 Sunday 08:00 - 22:15
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: A key is available in the Duty's Manager's office.
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: on platform and approach
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Manchester Victoria
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick up point is on Station Approach (M3 1WY) directly outside the station main entrance, outside the M & S shop.​​​​​​​
HomeTrainsTrain Times to Inverness Manchester to Inverness train

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