- Must visit
Dean Castle
Medieval castle with period interiors, collections, and musical instruments set in a large country park. It is Kilmarnock’s standout heritage attraction.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Sept
Cheapest price on 15 Sept
£28
Average ticket price on 15 Sept
£28
Fastest journey on 15 Sept
4 h 14 m
Average journey duration on 15 Sept
4 h 14 m
Trains on 15 Sept
1
Distance
278 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Kilmarnock is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Kilmarnock will cost around £28 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £28.
Fast trains
On Tue 15 Sept, we found 1 trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 278 km distance in an average of 4 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 14 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 14 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.
9:444h14Manchester13:58Kilmarnock£281One-way0 changes
- 9:444h14Manchester13:58Kilmarnock£281One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Manchester to Kilmarnock
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Kilmarnock among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £33 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 34m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £33, while a flight costs an average of £164.
Distance: 278 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£78 Average Price | £33 Average Price Cheapest | £164 Average Price | £57 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 34m Average total duration Fastest 4h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 25m Average total duration 5h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 42m Average total duration 6h 42m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Kilmarnock is a coach with an average price of £33.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Kilmarnock:
A coach is £45 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Kilmarnock costing on average £78.
A coach is £131 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Kilmarnock costing on average £164.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Kilmarnock is by train with an average journey time of 4h 4m.
Other travel options to Kilmarnock take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 55m.
Flight takes on average 6h 42m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Kilmarnock including taking a coach, train and flight.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 5m sooner (4h 4m by train vs 4h 9m by car). Tickets start at around £78 compared to roughly £57 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 Kilmarnock train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Kilmarnock trains for today, Monday 14 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 11:24 Manchester | 4h33 | 15:57 Kilmarnock | 0 changesdirect | |
| Tuesday 15 September | |||||
| 9:44 Manchester | 4h14 | 13:58 Kilmarnock | 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 Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express and more offer trains services from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
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 Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
- 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 Kilmarnock.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Kilmarnock
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £70 but you can travel from only £33 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:57, the last at 18:59. The fastest train covers the 278 km distance in 4h 2m.
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 £33
Distance 278 km |
Average train duration 4h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price £70 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 2m |
First train 4:57 |
Last train 18:59 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 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 £33
Train companies: Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Manchester to Kilmarnock trainsTranspennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Manchester and Kilmarnock from £33. 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
4h 30m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£70
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
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
5h 19m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£79
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
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Trains Limited Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Northern Trains Limited Price
£93
Northern Trains Limited frequency
11 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
3h 36m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
£102
TransPennine Express frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Kilmarnock
Things to do in Kilmarnock
Discover the best of Kilmarnock — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kilmarnock trip today.
- Must visit
The Dick Institute
Town-centre museum gallery presenting local history, changing exhibitions, and cultural displays. A useful introduction to Kilmarnock and East Ayrshire.
- Recommended
Burns Monument Centre Museum
Small museum in the Burns Monument Centre exploring the life and influence of poet Robert Burns in Ayrshire. A rewarding stop for literature enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Dean Castle Country Park
Large country park with woodland walks, play areas, ponds, and the castle. It is ideal for an easy half-day visit combining nature and heritage.
- Recommended
Kay Park
Victorian park with broad paths, mature trees, and a pond near the town centre. It is a pleasant place for a walk and local people-watching.
King Street
Pedestrianised central street lined with shops and historic buildings. It is useful for seeing everyday town life and exploring the heart of Kilmarnock.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Irn-Bru
A famous Ayrshire soft drink made with citrus oils and secret flavourings. It was first produced in Kilmarnock and remains the town’s best-known local drink.
Scotch Broth
Traditional Scottish broth of lamb or mutton, barley and root vegetables. It is a hearty staple long associated with Ayrshire farm cooking.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onion and milk or cream. It is a classic west coast comfort dish served across Ayrshire.
The Indian by Vineel
Stylish Indian restaurant known for curries, grilled dishes and attentive service in a polished but relaxed setting.
La Dragonera
Long-established Italian venue serving pizza, pasta and classic mains in a busy, family-friendly town-centre setting.
The First Edition
Popular steakhouse and grill with burgers, ribs and mixed grills, offering a lively casual atmosphere for groups and families.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Meals, lodging and local travel are usually cheaper than in Glasgow or Edinburgh, but costs are above many smaller towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares. Cafe tipping is optional.
FAQs: Manchester to Kilmarnock train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Kilmarnock can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £70, while the average price tends to be around £78.
The train journey from Manchester to Kilmarnock covers a distance of 278 km and takes approximately 4h 2m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Kilmarnock is 278 km.
The first train from Manchester to Kilmarnock leaves at 4:57.
The last train from Manchester to Kilmarnock departs at 18:59.
Trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
To get from Manchester to Kilmarnock, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Kilmarnock is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), and it arrives at Kilmarnock station (KMK).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Kilmarnock is by coach, costing approximately £33.
Booking trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock offers some scenic views, particularly as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District and the rolling hills of southern Scotland. Passengers can enjoy a mix of countryside vistas and charming small towns along the route.
A day trip from Manchester to Kilmarnock is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 2m. The distance is 278 km, and trains run 4 times per day.
For a visit to Kilmarnock, two to three days are generally sufficient to explore its local attractions, enjoy the parks, and experience the town's cultural highlights.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Kilmarnock
Most Manchester to Kilmarnock trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Kilmarnock station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock
Which Manchester station do trains to Kilmarnock leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock arrive at Kilmarnock. Kilmarnock is from Kilmarnock city centre.
KilmarnockKilmarnock station, Hill Street, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, KA1 2AF
City-centre transport
Getting to Kilmarnock from Kilmarnock city centre
Bus3, 6, 7 · 37m · £2 · every ~23 min
Kilmarnock train station facilities and services
Kilmarnock has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Kilmarnock.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kilmarnock.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kilmarnock. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kilmarnock: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kilmarnock: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kilmarnock: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. Level to platforms 1,2&3 underpass with lifts connecting platform 4. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 6, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Kilmarnock
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kilmarnock and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Kilmarnock
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