- Recommended
Ancient High House
Historic townhouse museum with changing exhibitions on Stafford’s past, period rooms and displays on local people and trade.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Stafford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £12
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £18
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 55 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 57 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 11
- Distance
- 76 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Stafford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Stafford will cost around £18 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £12.
Fast trains
On Mon 02 Nov, we found 11 trains from Manchester to Stafford, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 55 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 1 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.
G90095+
C1695915:36 1h33 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 17:09 Stafford station (STA) £12 1 One-way 1 change- L89685+C17791
15:06 1h25 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 16:31 Stafford station (STA) £12 1 One-way 1 change - L89721 · G90095+C16959
15:38 1h31 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 17:09 Stafford station (STA) £12 1 One-way 2 changes 
W2989515:03 0h57 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 16:00 Stafford station (STA) £12 1 One-way 0 changes- L89627+C18025
16:06 1h25 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 17:31 Stafford station (STA) £15 1 One-way 1 change
- G01032
15:25 0h55 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 16:20 Stafford station (STA) £23 1 One-way 0 changes - G01159
16:03 0h56 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 16:59 Stafford station (STA) £20 1 One-way 0 changes 
W3427715:54 0h56 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 16:50 Stafford station (STA) £23 1 One-way 0 changes- W29895
15:03 0h57 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 16:00 Stafford station (STA) £12 1 One-way 0 changes - C01291+W70459
15:14 1h01 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) 16:15 Stafford station (STA) £23 1 One-way 1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Stafford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Stafford run on average 11 times per day, taking around 1h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 76 km distance in 47m.
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 76 km |
Average train duration 1h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 47m |
First train 0:02 |
Last train 23:43 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Manchester to Stafford trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Manchester to Stafford.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Stafford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £7, while the average price tends to be around £25.
The train journey from Manchester to Stafford covers a distance of 76 km and takes approximately 47m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Stafford is 76 km.
The first train from Manchester to Stafford leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Manchester to Stafford departs at 23:43.
Trains from Manchester to Stafford run approximately 11 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Manchester and Stafford. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast.
Live departures
Manchester to Stafford train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Stafford trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W33102 | 8:05 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0h53 | 8:58 Stafford station (STA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G01008 | 8:26 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0h57 | 9:23 Stafford station (STA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G01012 | 9:27 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0h58 | 10:25 Stafford station (STA) | 0 changesdirect | |
 G38896+W33326 | 9:30 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1h08 | 10:38 Stafford station (STA) | 1 change | |
| C32683+C17879 | 9:59 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1h32 | 11:31 Stafford station (STA) | 1 change | |
| G01016 | 10:26 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0h57 | 11:23 Stafford station (STA) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Stafford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Manchester to Stafford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Stafford.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Stafford.
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Stafford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Stafford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Stafford.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales from Manchester to Stafford trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Manchester and Stafford from £7. 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
47m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£7
CrossCountry frequency
5 a day
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
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
50m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£22
Avanti West Coast 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
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 Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£8
Northern Rail frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
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 dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
53m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£29
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
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 cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Manchester and Stafford
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Manchester to Stafford.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Stafford.
Complete guide to Stafford
Things to do in Stafford
Discover the best of Stafford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stafford trip today.
- Recommended
Shire Hall Gallery
Town-centre art space in the Shire Hall showing temporary exhibitions, contemporary work and community-focused displays.
Lock House Museum
Small heritage museum in a restored lock cottage, explaining the county’s waterways through artefacts, models and canal history.
- Recommended
Victoria Park
Riverside park with open lawns, sports facilities, family space and a pleasant walk close to the centre.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic market square framed by civic buildings and shops, often used for events and an easy base for exploring Stafford.
- Recommended
Stafford Castle Meadows
Open green space beside the castle, good for short walks and views towards the ruins and surrounding countryside.
Staffordshire Oatcake with Cheese and Bacon
A savoury Staffordshire oatcake filled with melted cheese and bacon. It is a local staple from the Potteries and widely eaten across Staffordshire.
Staffordshire Oatcake
A plain Staffordshire oatcake served with butter or cheese. This soft oat pancake is one of the county’s most recognisable traditional foods.
- Vegetarian
Staffordshire Tea Loaf
A rich fruit loaf made with tea-soaked dried fruit and spices, then sliced and spread with butter. It is a long-standing tea-time favourite in Staffordshire.
Joxer Brasserie
Popular Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service. Lively yet comfortable for casual lunches and dinners.
The Dog House
Stylish restaurant in Stafford town centre serving modern British dishes, steaks and grills in a relaxed, polished setting.
The Soup Kitchen
Traditional pub and dining room known for British classics, cask ales and a historic atmosphere near Stafford town centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in London, while rail travel and central pub meals can still add up for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up in taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
MyStaffs
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £8.50
To the city centre
Stafford Railway Station -> Stafford Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10–15 min
- The Knot day ticket gives unlimited same-day travel on most Staffordshire bus operators for £8.50. Check your operator is included before you buy.
- Stafford Railway Station has a taxi rank, and National Rail states the town centre is about a 10–15 min walk away.
Plan your visit to Stafford
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Stafford.
The train journey from Manchester to Stafford offers views of the English countryside, passing through areas with green fields, small towns, and occasional woodlands, providing a pleasant but not particularly dramatic scenic experience.
FAQs: Manchester to Stafford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Stafford 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 Stafford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Manchester to Stafford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Stafford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Stafford
Most Manchester to Stafford trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Stafford station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Stafford 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 Stafford
Which Manchester station do trains to Stafford leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Stafford 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 · £5 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · £1 · 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.
ManchesterManchester Piccadilly, Piccadilly Station Approach, Greater, Manchester M60 7RA, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester from Manchester city centre
TRUE
Manchester train station facilities and services
Manchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple food outlets and cafes available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available in the station. ATMs are several ATMs located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester: Step-free access throughout the station.
Which Stafford station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Stafford arrive at Stafford. Stafford is from Stafford city centre.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.
Stafford train station facilities and services
Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stafford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stafford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stafford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stafford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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.
Train stations for Manchester to Stafford
Check train stations information for Manchester and Stafford, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Stafford is Manchester Piccadilly, and it arrives at Stafford.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Stafford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Stafford and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Stafford
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