- 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 and prices for 23 Aug
Cheapest price
£55
Average price
£57
Fastest journey
4 h 2 m
Average duration
4 h 43 m
Trains per day
3
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 £57 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £55.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Manchester for Thetford every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 232 km distance in an average of 4 h 43 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 2 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 39 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.
9:154h28Manchester13:43Thetford£551One-way0 changes
10:205h39Manchester15:59Thetford£551One-way0 changes- 10:414h02Manchester14:43Thetford£611One-way0 changes
- 10:414h02Manchester14:43Thetford£611One-way0 changes
- 9:154h28Manchester13:43Thetford£551One-way0 changes
- 10:205h39Manchester15:59Thetford£551One-way0 changes
Live departures
Manchester to Thetford train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Thetford trains for today, Saturday 22 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W84649+C04343+G07956 | Delayed 5:14 6:13Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h30 | 10:43 Thetford station (TTF) | 2 changes | |
| Sunday 23 August | |||||
| 9:15 Manchester | 4h28 | 13:43 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:20 Manchester | 5h39 | 15:59 Thetford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:41 Manchester | 4h02 | 14:43 Thetford | 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 Thetford by train
Compare train 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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23 Aug
23 Aug
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24 Aug
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25 Aug
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26 Aug
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27 Aug
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29 Aug
29 Aug
Why should you book Manchester to Thetford trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as east_midlands_trains, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express and more 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 East Midlands Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of east_midlands_trains, Avanti West Coast or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Thetford.
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Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of east_midlands_trains, Avanti West Coast or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Thetford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Thetford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Thetford run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £27 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:52, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 232 km distance in 4h 0m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 232 km |
Average train duration 4h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price £27 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 4h 0m |
First train 2:52 |
Last train 21:45 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
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
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express from Manchester to Thetford trainsEast Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Manchester and Thetford from £27. 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 Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
£27
East Midlands Railway frequency
6 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
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 Duration
4h 13m
Cheapest Price
£203
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 59m
Cheapest Price
£75
east_midlands_trains frequency
8 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 13m
Cheapest Price
£140
TransPennine Express frequency
1 a day
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.
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 £27, while the average price tends to be around £29.
The train journey from Manchester to Thetford covers a distance of 232 km and takes approximately 4h 0m. Trains run 8 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 8 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 2 times per day, provided by East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains.
To travel from Manchester to Thetford, you can take a train.
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).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Thetford is by train, costing approximately £27.
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.
A day trip from Manchester to Thetford is not feasible due to the journey duration of 4h 0m. However, there are 5 train services available per day. The distance is 232 km.
To fully enjoy Thetford's historical sites, nature reserves, and local attractions, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal.
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 · £0.90 · 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.
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 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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