Manchester to Watford train with Avanti West Coast

Mon 02 Nov
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
Lumo
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
Lumo
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Watford

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
Cheapest price on 02 Nov
£14
Average ticket price on 02 Nov
£91
Fastest journey on 02 Nov
2 h 19 m
Average journey duration on 02 Nov
2 h 19 m
Trains on 02 Nov
42
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Watford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Manchester to Watford will cost around £91 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £14.

Fast trains

To travel from Manchester to Watford you need to make at least one change.

  • Northern RailL89655+West Midlands TrainsC17874 · Y80859
    2 changes
  • Northern RailL89647+West Midlands TrainsC17837 · Y80847
    2 changes
  • Northern RailL89685+West Midlands TrainsC17791 · C17796
    2 changes
  • Northern RailL89682+West Midlands TrainsC18015 · Y80903
    2 changes
  • Northern RailL89640+West Midlands TrainsC17854 · Y80835
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Watford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Watford run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 01:00, the last at 22:32. The fastest train covers the 238 km distance in 1h 57m.

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
238 km
Average train duration
2h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
£13
Trains per day
15
Fastest train
1h 57m
First train
1:00
Last train
22:32
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
42 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 Watford trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Manchester to Watford.

The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Watford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £71.
The train journey from Manchester to Watford covers a distance of 238 km and takes approximately 1h 57m. Trains run 15 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Watford is 238 km.
The first train from Manchester to Watford leaves at 1:00.
The last train from Manchester to Watford departs at 22:32.
Trains from Manchester to Watford run approximately 15 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Watford.

Live departures

Manchester to Watford train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Watford trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW331028:05 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h31
10:36 Watford Junction (WFJ)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW33102+London OvergroundL223838:05 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h43
10:48 Watford High Street (WFH)1 change
CrossCountryG01008+Avanti West CoastW332538:26 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h49
11:15 Watford Junction (WFJ)1 change
CrossCountryG01008+Avanti West CoastW33253+London OvergroundL223928:26 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h07
11:33 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33110+West Midlands TrainsW70271+London OvergroundC342269:20 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h53
12:13 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33110+West Midlands TrainsW702719:20 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h41
12:01 Watford Junction (WFJ)1 change
CrossCountryG01012+Avanti West CoastW33309+West Midlands TrainsC17882+London OvergroundL224079:27 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h21
12:48 Watford High Street (WFH)3 changes
CrossCountryG01012+Avanti West CoastW33309+West Midlands TrainsC178829:27 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h00
12:27 Watford Junction (WFJ)2 changes
West Midlands TrainsC17879 · Y80804+Northern RailC326839:59 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h36
13:35 Watford Junction (WFJ)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33105+West Midlands TrainsW7028810:20 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h46
13:06 Watford Junction (WFJ)1 change
Avanti West CoastW33105+West Midlands TrainsW70288+London OvergroundL2241310:20 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h58
13:18 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33109+West Midlands TrainsY8080411:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h20
13:35 Watford Junction (WFJ)1 change
Avanti West CoastW33109+London OvergroundL22419+West Midlands TrainsY8080411:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h33
13:48 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33049+West Midlands TrainsY8081312:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h21
14:36 Watford Junction (WFJ)1 change
Avanti West CoastW33049+West Midlands TrainsY80813+London OvergroundL2243012:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h33
14:48 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33030 · W33256 · W3333312:55 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h47
16:42 Watford Junction (WFJ)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33221+West Midlands TrainsY8082413:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h20
15:35 Watford Junction (WFJ)1 change
Avanti West CoastW33221+West Midlands TrainsY80824+London OvergroundL2244313:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h33
15:48 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33031 · W33369 · W3324813:55 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h46
17:41 Watford Junction (WFJ)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33239+West Midlands TrainsY80836+London OvergroundL2245514:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h33
16:48 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33178+West Midlands TrainsY80848+London OvergroundL2246715:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h33
17:48 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33167+West Midlands TrainsY80860+London OvergroundL2247916:15 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h33
18:48 Watford High Street (WFH)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 Watford trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as West Midlands Trains or Lumo offer trains services from Manchester to Watford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Watford.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Watford.
  • 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Watford.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Watford.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Watford.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Lumo from Manchester to Watford trainsAvanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Lumo trains will get you between Manchester and Watford from £13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
1h 57m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£37
Avanti West Coast frequency
12 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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£13
West Midlands Trains frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Lumo

About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£73
Lumo frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Manchester and Watford

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 Watford.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Watford.

Complete guide to Watford

Things to do in Watford

Discover the best of Watford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Watford trip today.

  • Must visit

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

A visitor attraction and working studio where tours reveal how Harry Potter films were made, with original sets and props.

  • Recommended

Watford Museum

Watford's local museum in a historic house, with exhibitions on the town's people, industry and changing streets.

Watford Palace Theatre

An arts centre with galleries, performances and cinema, making it a useful stop for contemporary local visual culture.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for southern England. Hotels can be pricey on London commuter routes, but dining and local transport are usually a little cheaper than central London.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants may add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, 10% is usual for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually just small change.

Plan your visit to Watford

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 Watford.

The train journey from Manchester to Watford offers a mix of urban and rural views. Travellers can enjoy glimpses of the rolling countryside and charming small towns, interspersed with industrial landscapes as the train travels through the heart of England.

FAQs: Manchester to Watford train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Watford 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 Watford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Booking trains from Manchester to Watford 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 Watford.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Watford

Most Manchester to Watford trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Watford Junction station pair, with some services arriving at Watford High Street. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Watford 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 Watford

Which Manchester station do trains to Watford leave from?

Trains from Manchester to Watford 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 3457114141WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 3RRWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
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.

DeansgateDeansgate station, Whitworth Street West, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4LGParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Deansgate from Manchester city centre

Deansgate is 1 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainManchester Airport - Corkickle, Manchester Airport - Blackpool North, Manchester Airport - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Barrow-in-Furness, Manchester Airport - Windermere, Wilmslow - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Preston, Stockport - Blackpool North · 5m · £1 · every ~7 min
Bus33, 255, 30 · 5m · £2 · every ~22 min
T1 · 1h 6m
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line · 6m · £2 · every ~38 min

Deansgate train station facilities and services

Deansgate has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Deansgate.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Deansgate.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Deansgate: Parking, Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Deansgate: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Deansgate: 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.

Train stations for Manchester to Watford

Check train stations information for Manchester and Watford, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Manchester that goes to Watford is Manchester Piccadilly, and it arrives at Watford Junction.

More options for your journey from Manchester to Watford

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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