- Must visit
Caithness Horizons Museum and Art Gallery
Town museum covering Caithness life, archaeology and geology, with clear displays that introduce Thurso and the wider north Highlands.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Thurso
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 22 Oct
Cheapest price on 22 Oct
£192
Average ticket price on 22 Oct
£234
Fastest journey on 22 Oct
10 h 42 m
Average journey duration on 22 Oct
14 h 11 m
Trains on 22 Oct
6
Distance
574 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Thurso is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Thurso will cost around £234 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £192.
Fast trains
To travel from Manchester to Thurso you need to make at least 2 changes.
10:2411h55Manchester22:19Thurso£1921One-way2 changes- 16:2518h33Manchester10:58Thurso£1921One-way2 changes
- 20:2521h24Manchester17:49Thurso£1921One-way2 changes
5:5211h57Manchester17:49Thurso£2671One-way3 changes- 11:3710h42Manchester22:19Thurso£2811One-way3 changes
- 11:3710h42Manchester22:19Thurso£2811One-way3 changes
- 10:2411h55Manchester22:19Thurso£1921One-way2 changes
- 5:5211h57Manchester17:49Thurso£2671One-way3 changes
- 20:3717h46Manchester14:23Thurso£2811One-way3 changes
- 16:2518h33Manchester10:58Thurso£1921One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Thurso
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Thurso run on average 3 times per day, taking around 11h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £133 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:26, the last at 12:30. The fastest train covers the 574 km distance in 10h 16m.
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 574 km |
Average train duration 11h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price £133 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 10h 16m |
First train 6:26 |
Last train 12:30 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Manchester to Thurso trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Manchester to Thurso.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Thurso can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £133, while the average price tends to be around £163.
The train journey from Manchester to Thurso covers a distance of 574 km and takes approximately 10h 16m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Thurso is 574 km.
The first train from Manchester to Thurso leaves at 6:26.
The last train from Manchester to Thurso departs at 12:30.
Trains from Manchester to Thurso run approximately 3 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Thurso.
Live departures
Manchester to Thurso train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Thurso trains for today, Wednesday 21 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20:25 Manchester | 21h24 | 17:49 Thurso | 2 changes | |
| 20:37 Manchester | 17h46 | 14:23 Thurso | 3 changes | |
| Thursday 22 October | |||||
| 5:52 Manchester | 11h57 | 17:49 Thurso | 3 changes | |
| 10:24 Manchester | 11h55 | 22:19 Thurso | 2 changes | |
| 11:37 Manchester | 10h42 | 22:19 Thurso | 3 changes | |
| 16:25 Manchester | 18h33 | 10:58 Thurso | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Thurso trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as London North Eastern Railway offer trains services from Manchester to Thurso.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Thurso.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Thurso.
- 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Thurso.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Thurso.
Train companies: Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway from Manchester to Thurso trainsScotrail, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Manchester and Thurso from £133. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
10h 16m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£133
Scotrail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
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
13h 0m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£166
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Manchester and Thurso
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 Thurso.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Thurso.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Thurso.
Complete guide to Thurso
Things to do in Thurso
Discover the best of Thurso — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thurso trip today.
- Recommended
North Coast Visitor Centre Gallery
Gallery space at North Coast Visitor Centre in nearby Bettyhill, presenting local art and interpretation of the far north's landscape and culture.
Castletown Heritage Society Museum
Compact local museum in nearby Castletown exploring flagstone quarrying and village heritage, useful for understanding the area's industry.
- Must visit
Thurso Beach
Broad sandy beach popular for walks and surfing, with open views across the bay and easy access from the town centre.
- Recommended
Riverside Walk and Sir George's Park
Riverside park with paths, a play area and picnic space, ideal for a relaxed walk close to central Thurso.
- Recommended
Holburn Head Walk
Dramatic clifftop walk west of town with sea stacks, lighthouse views and frequent birdlife along the Pentland Firth.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A classic Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Deeply linked to northern coastal fishing communities and often served warming hot.
- Gluten-free
Caithness Langoustines
Fresh North Atlantic langoustines landed in Caithness waters, usually simply boiled or grilled to showcase the sweet local shellfish.
- Vegetarian
Scottish Porridge
Traditional porridge made from Scottish oats and water or milk. A Highland staple long associated with crofting life in the far north.
Park Hotel Restaurant
Established hotel restaurant serving Scottish dishes, seafood and grills in a smart but relaxed dining room near the harbour.
Y-Not Bar & Grill
Popular casual spot on Thurso seafront for fish and chips, seafood and takeaway favourites in an informal setting.
Commercial Hotel
Well-known local café and bistro with soups, baked goods, lunches and coffee in a friendly town-centre setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the Highlands: lodging can be limited and pricier in peak season, while dining is mid-range and local buses are modestly priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple café meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35-60+ per person for an upscale meal.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £6.50
To the city centre
Thurso Station -> Sir George Street, Thurso
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Stagecoach says you can buy mobile tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app, and contactless Tap and Go is available on Stagecoach buses.
- Thurso Station is on Princes Street, within easy walking distance of the town centre, so walking may be simpler than waiting for a bus.
Plan your visit to Thurso
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 Thurso.
The train journey from Manchester to Thurso offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, including mountains, lochs, and remote countryside.
FAQs: Manchester to Thurso train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Thurso 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 Thurso, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Thurso can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £133, while the average price tends to be around £163.
The train journey from Manchester to Thurso covers a distance of 574 km and takes approximately 10h 16m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Thurso is 574 km.
The first train from Manchester to Thurso leaves at 6:26.
The last train from Manchester to Thurso departs at 12:30.
Trains from Manchester to Thurso run approximately 3 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Manchester to Thurso.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Thurso.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Thurso.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Thurso is Manchester Oxford Road (MCO), and it arrives at Thurso station (THS).
Booking trains from Manchester to Thurso 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 Thurso offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, including mountains, lochs, and remote countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Thurso.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Thurso
Most Manchester to Thurso trains use the Manchester Oxford Road to Thurso station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Thurso 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 Thurso
Which Manchester station do trains to Thurso leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Thurso leave from Manchester Oxford Road. The station is 1 km from Manchester city centre at Manchester Oxford Road station, Station Approach, Oxford Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FU.
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.
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 · £1 · 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 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.
Which Thurso station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Thurso arrive at Thurso. Thurso is from Thurso city centre.
ThursoThurso station, Princes Street, Thurso, Highland, KW14 7DL
City-centre transport
Getting to Thurso from Thurso city centre
Bus921 · 1m · £2
800, 803 · 2m
Thurso train station facilities and services
Thurso has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Thurso.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thurso. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thurso: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Thurso: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thurso: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 1, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Manchester to Thurso
Check train stations information for Manchester and Thurso, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Thurso is Manchester Oxford Road, and it arrives at Thurso.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Thurso
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Thurso and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Thurso
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