- Recommended
Thomas Paine National Research Centre
Museum dedicated to Thomas Paine, with exhibits on his life, political ideas and the town he once lived in.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Thetford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 07 Oct
Cheapest price on 07 Oct
£76
Average ticket price on 07 Oct
£112
Fastest journey on 07 Oct
3 h 59 m
Average journey duration on 07 Oct
4 h
Trains on 07 Oct
14
Distance
232 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Thetford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Thetford will cost around £112 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £76.
Fast trains
On Wed 07 Oct, we found 14 trains from Manchester to Thetford, including 10 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 232 km distance in an average of 4 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 59 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 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.
7:434h00Manchester11:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes- 8:434h00Manchester12:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes
- 9:434h00Manchester13:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes
- 10:434h00Manchester14:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes
- 11:434h00Manchester15:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes
- 16:433h59Manchester20:42Thetford£761One-way0 changes
- 7:434h00Manchester11:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes
- 8:434h00Manchester12:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes
- 9:434h00Manchester13:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes
- 10:434h00Manchester14:43Thetford£761One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Thetford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Thetford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £43 but you can travel from only £24 by coach.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:52, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 232 km distance in 3h 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 £24
Distance 232 km |
Average train duration 3h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £43 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 3h 2m |
First train 2:52 |
Last train 21:45 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 £24
Live departures
Manchester to Thetford train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Thetford trains for today, Tuesday 6 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W33886+ G00821+ P01179 | Delayed 12:33 13:34Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h16 | 16:53 16:53Thetford station (TTF) | 2 changes | |
| Wednesday 7 October | |||||
| 5:05 Manchester | 4h40 | 9:45 Thetford | 2 changes | |
| 6:30 Manchester | 4h13 | 10:43 Thetford | 2 changes | |
| 7:43 Manchester | 4h00 | 11:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:43 Manchester | 4h00 | 12:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:43 Manchester | 4h00 | 13:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:43 Manchester | 4h00 | 14:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:43 Manchester | 4h00 | 15:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:43 Manchester | 4h00 | 16:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:35 Manchester | 4h34 | 18:09 Thetford | 2 changes | |
| 14:43 Manchester | 4h00 | 18:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 15:43 Manchester | 4h03 | 19:46 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:43 Manchester | 3h59 | 20:42 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:35 Manchester | 4h30 | 22:05 Thetford | 2 changes | |
| 18:43 Manchester | 4h00 | 22:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Thetford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as East Midlands Railway or London North Eastern Railway offer trains services from Manchester to Thetford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Thetford.
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 East Midlands Railway or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Thetford.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Thetford.
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway from Manchester to Thetford trainsEast Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Manchester and Thetford from £24. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
3h 55m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£43
East Midlands Railway frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
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
3h 32m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£116
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
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
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
3h 2m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£123
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Thetford
Things to do in Thetford
Discover the best of Thetford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thetford trip today.
- Recommended
Ancient House Museum of Thetford Life
Town museum in a former court building, covering local archaeology, wildlife, industry and daily life across centuries.
Thetford Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum
Volunteer-run military museum exploring the regiment’s history through uniforms, medals and stories linked to Norfolk service.
- Must visit
Thetford Forest
Broad heathland and forest landscape near Thetford, popular for walking, cycling and experiencing the distinctive Breckland scenery.
- Recommended
Riverside Walk
Riverside green space ideal for gentle walks, wildlife spotting and views of nearby historic buildings in the heart of town.
Melford Common
Central public garden with lawns, seating and a war memorial, offering a peaceful stop close to shops and historic streets.
- Gluten-free
Norfolk Ham
A Norfolk staple of cured ham, traditionally sliced thick and served cold. It reflects the county’s long pig-rearing and curing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Norfolk Turkey
Free-range turkey reared in Norfolk, commonly roasted for Sunday lunch or festive meals. The county is strongly associated with British turkey farming.
Rabbit Pie
A rustic game dish using rabbit, often slow-cooked in pie or stew. It reflects Breckland’s historic heathland hunting and country cooking traditions.
Thetford Spice
Popular Indian restaurant and takeaway known for reliable curries and a casual atmosphere, well established with local diners in Thetford.
OMG Steakhouse
Casual steakhouse and grill serving burgers, steaks and hearty mains. A familiar choice for relaxed group meals in the town centre.
The Red Lion
Traditional riverside pub in Thetford serving British classics, roasts and drinks in a relaxed historic setting near the Little Ouse.
Pound sterling (£)
Thetford is generally cheaper than larger UK tourist cities, with lower dining and lodging costs and limited public transport spending for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-3.80 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Greater Anglia
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- : null
- Day pass
- : null
To the city centre
Thetford station -> Thetford Town Centre / Bus Interchange
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Thetford Town Centre / Bus Interchange is about a 10-minute walk from Thetford station.
- Buy rail tickets from the station ticket machine or Greater Anglia app; no official current local bus fare page was verified from the sources used.
Best day trips from Thetford by train
The most popular day trips by train from Thetford are Cambridge, Norwich, Ely, Bury Saint Edmunds and Ipswich. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Thetford on Omio.
Day trip from Thetford to Cambridge by train
Why visit Cambridge for the day?
Cambridge is a historic university city on the River Cam, known for its colleges and punting. Its compact centre, museums and green spaces give it an academic yet lively feel.
How to get from Thetford to Cambridge by train?
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:17, the last at 23:37. The fastest train covers the 49 km distance in 36m.
Day trip from Thetford to Norwich by train
Why visit Norwich for the day?
Norwich is known for its Norman cathedral, medieval lanes and strong independent character. Its historic market, literary links and mix of old churches and creative spaces give it a lively but relaxed feel.
How to get from Thetford to Norwich by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:37, the last at 23:37. The fastest train covers the 44 km distance in 28m.
Day trip from Thetford to Ely by train
Why visit Ely for the day?
Ely is a small Cambridgeshire cathedral city known for Ely Cathedral and its setting above the fens. The compact centre and riverside on the Great Ouse give it a calm historic character.
How to get from Thetford to Ely by train?
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 33 km distance in 22m.
Day trip from Thetford to Bury Saint Edmunds by train
Why visit Bury Saint Edmunds for the day?
Bury Saint Edmunds is a historic Suffolk market town known for its abbey ruins, cathedral and Georgian centre. It has a compact feel, with Abbey Gardens, independent shops and a long brewing heritage giving it character.
Day trip from Thetford to Ipswich by train
Why visit Ipswich for the day?
Ipswich is one of England’s oldest towns, known for its waterfront and maritime past. Its medieval streets, parks and Suffolk atmosphere make it feel historic yet lived-in.
How to get from Thetford to Ipswich by train?
The earliest train runs at 01:00, the last at 22:07. The fastest train covers the 48 km distance in 1h 7m.
FAQs: Manchester to Thetford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Thetford 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 Thetford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Thetford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £43, while the average price tends to be around £75.
The train journey from Manchester to Thetford covers a distance of 232 km and takes approximately 3h 2m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Thetford is 232 km.
The first train from Manchester to Thetford leaves at 2:52.
The last train from Manchester to Thetford departs at 21:45.
Trains from Manchester to Thetford run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Manchester to Thetford.
Yes, there is a direct train between Manchester and Thetford. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by East Midlands Railway.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Thetford.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Thetford is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), and it arrives at Thetford station (TTF).
Booking trains from Manchester to Thetford 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 Thetford offers varied scenery, including the picturesque Pennines, charming rural landscapes, and glimpses of historic towns, providing a pleasant visual experience for travellers.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Thetford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Thetford
Most Manchester to Thetford trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Thetford station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Thetford 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 Thetford
Which Manchester station do trains to Thetford leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Thetford 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 · £0.89 · 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 Thetford station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Thetford arrive at Thetford. Thetford is from Thetford city centre.
ThetfordThetford station, Station Road, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 1AH
City-centre transport
Getting to Thetford from Thetford city centre
BusT2, T3, T1 · 26m · every ~6 min
Thetford train station facilities and services
Thetford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Thetford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Thetford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thetford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thetford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Thetford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thetford: Staff help available: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: On platform 2, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Thetford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Thetford and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Thetford
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