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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Thurso
Showing times and prices for 25 May
Cheapest price
£197
Average price
£241
Fastest journey
10 h 42 m
Average duration
14 h 11 m
Trains per day
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 £241 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £197.
Fast trains
To travel from Manchester to Thurso you need to make at least 2 changes.
10:2411h55Manchester22:19Thurso£1971One-way2 changes- 16:2518h33Manchester10:58Thurso£1971One-way2 changes
- 20:2521h24Manchester17:49Thurso£1971One-way2 changes
5:5211h57Manchester17:49Thurso£2751One-way3 changes- 11:3710h42Manchester22:19Thurso£2891One-way3 changes
- 11:3710h42Manchester22:19Thurso£2891One-way3 changes
- 10:2411h55Manchester22:19Thurso£1971One-way2 changes
- 5:5211h57Manchester17:49Thurso£2751One-way3 changes
- 20:3717h46Manchester14:23Thurso£2891One-way3 changes
- 16:2518h33Manchester10:58Thurso£1971One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Manchester to Thurso
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Thurso among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £78. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 10h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £78, and a train costs an average of £197.
Distance: 574 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£244 Average Price | £78 Average Price Cheapest |
11h 0m Average total duration Fastest 10h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 16m Average total duration 12h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Manchester to Thurso train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Thurso trains for today, Sunday 24 May. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20:30 Manchester | 17h53 | 14:23 Thurso | 3 changes | |
| Monday 25 May | |||||
| 5:52 Manchester | 11h57 | 17:49 Thurso | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Thurso by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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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25 May
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Why should you book Manchester to Thurso trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express 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 Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express 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.
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 10h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £197 but you can travel from only £78 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 06:26, the last at 12:30. The fastest train covers the 574 km distance in 10h 26m.
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 £78
Distance 574 km |
Average train duration 10h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price £197 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 10h 26m |
First train 6:26 |
Last train 12:30 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £78
Train companies: Scotrail, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Manchester to Thurso trainsScotrail, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Manchester and Thurso from £78. 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 Duration
12h 5m
Cheapest Price
£136
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
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 26m
Cheapest Price
£275
Northern Trains Limited frequency
2 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 55m
Cheapest Price
£197
TransPennine Express frequency
2 a day
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 £197, while the average price tends to be around £244.
The train journey from Manchester to Thurso covers a distance of 574 km and takes approximately 10h 26m. 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.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Thurso.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Thurso.
To get from Manchester to Thurso, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
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).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Thurso is by coach, costing approximately £78.
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.
A day trip from Manchester to Thurso is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 26m. The distance is 574 km. There are 2 trains per day.
In Thurso, you can surf at Thurso East, a prominent surfing spot known for its powerful waves. Enjoy a leisurely walk along Thurso Beach with scenic views of the North Sea. Visit the Castlehill Heritage Centre to explore local heritage exhibits and participate in workshops. Take a boat tour from Scrabster Harbour to discover marine wildlife and stunning coastal landscapes. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at Thurso Golf Club, which offers a course with beautiful countryside views. For sightseeing, explore the historic Thurso Castle ruins, the Caithness Horizons Museum showcasing local history, Old St Peter's Church, and the picturesque Holburn Head Lighthouse.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Thurso is ideal to explore the town, visit the nearby attractions such as the Castle of Mey and Dunnet Head, and enjoy some time on the stunning beaches.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Thurso.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Thurso
Manchester
Thurso
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Manchester Oxford Road. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Oxford Road for your trip from Manchester to Thurso.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:40 Sunday 07:30 - 22:00
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: There will be no toilet provision at Manchester Oxford Road from 15th July to 25th July to allow for existing toilets to be refurbished
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: on Platform 4/5
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Manchester Oxford Road
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stops on Whitworth St West (200 yards from station) (station side for Liverpool, opposite side for Piccadilly)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:20 - 23:40 Sunday 08:10 - 23:30
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station From Whitworth Street, up a ramp (43 paces, 1:25 slope) and level access through the entrance into the foyer. Or from the junction of Chester Road, Whitworth Street and Deansgate, level access through the entrance, along the corridor and up 21 steps into the foyer. Then, to Manchester: Past the ticket office, via the lift in the foyer. Or up a ramp (34 paces), up 17 steps onto the platform. To Bolton, Warrington and Wigan : Via the lift in the foyer or along the subway (26 paces), up a ramp (32 paces) and up 18 steps onto the platform. Level access to Manchester platform also via overbridge from Metrolink G-Mex Metrolink stop. Lift available first to last train, currently 06:20 - 23:40 Monday to Saturday. 08:10 - 23:30 Sunday.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Deansgate
- Onward travel information: Free Metro shuttle bus link from station front serving Manchester City centre including Victoria Station On both sides of Whitworth Street, Deansgate and Chester Road for buses to Piccadilly Gardens, Altrincham or Sale. Contact Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at bus stops on Whitworth St.
- Metro: Metrolink G-Mex tram stop linked by footbridge from Manchester platform. 0161 228 7811
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
- Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Dining
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Carluccio’s
- Hotel Chocolat
- Starbucks
- The Pasty Shop
- Costa Coffee
- Pret a Manger
- Upper Crust
- McDonald's
- & more
Accessibility
- There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
- Premier Inn Manchester City
- Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Information Desk
- Located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Public transport options for Manchester Piccadilly
- Bus lines: 1, 2, 3, 147
- Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales
The major train station for arrivals in Thurso is Thurso. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Thurso for your journey to Thurso from Manchester.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 09:50 - 16:54 Saturday 10:10 - 16:54 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: Available during ticket office opening hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Part of the ticket office
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transport options for Thurso
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the bus stop at the station entrance
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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