Manchester to Watford train with Avanti West Coast

Mon 03 Aug
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Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
Great Western Railway
Regionale
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
Great Western Railway
Regionale
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Watford

Showing times and prices for 03 Aug

Cheapest price

£13

Average price

£80

Fastest journey

2 h 19 m

Average duration

2 h 35 m

Trains per day

12

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 £80 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.

Fast trains

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

  • Northern RailL89647+West Midlands TrainsC16927 · Y80859
    9:064h27
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    13:33Watford Junction (WFJ)
    £131One-way
    2 changes
  • Northern RailL89640+West Midlands TrainsC16923 · Y80847
    8:064h27
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    12:33Watford Junction (WFJ)
    £131One-way
    2 changes
  • Northern RailL89640+West Midlands TrainsC17854 · Y80847
    8:064h27
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    12:33Watford Junction (WFJ)
    £341One-way
    2 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW34104+West Midlands TrainsW70316
    8:342h55
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    11:29Watford Junction (WFJ)
    £511One-way
    1 change
  • Avanti West CoastW34134+London OvergroundL22393+West Midlands TrainsY80835
    9:142h34
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    11:48Watford High Street (WFH)
    £511One-way
    2 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Manchester to Watford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Watford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £13, and a flight costs an average of £65.

Distance: 238 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£43

Average Price

Cheapest

£54

Average Price

£149

Average Price

3h 29m

Average total duration

2h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 46m

Average total duration

6h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.7 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Manchester to Watford train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Watford trains for today, Sunday 2 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33110+West Midlands TrainsW70271
Delayed
8:20 9:20Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h41
11:05 11:05Watford Junction (WFJ)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW33110+West Midlands TrainsW70271+London OvergroundC34226
Delayed
8:20 9:20Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h53
11:23 11:23Watford High Street (WFH)
2 changes
Monday 3 August
Northern RailL89640+West Midlands TrainsC16923 · Y808478:06 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h27
12:33 Watford Junction (WFJ)2 changes
Northern RailL89640+West Midlands TrainsC17854 · Y808478:06 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h27
12:33 Watford Junction (WFJ)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33952+West Midlands TrainsY808238:14 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h19
10:33 Watford Junction (WFJ)1 change
Avanti West CoastW33952+West Midlands TrainsY80823+London OvergroundL223818:14 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h34
10:48 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW34170+West Midlands TrainsY80835+London OvergroundL22393+Transport for WalesG388708:30 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h18
11:48 Watford High Street (WFH)3 changes
Avanti West CoastW34170+West Midlands TrainsY80835+Transport for WalesG388708:30 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h03
11:33 Watford Junction (WFJ)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW34104+West Midlands TrainsW703168:34 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h55
11:29 Watford Junction (WFJ)1 change
Northern RailL89647+West Midlands TrainsC16927 · Y808599:06 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h27
13:33 Watford Junction (WFJ)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW34134+West Midlands TrainsY80835+London OvergroundL223939:14 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h34
11:48 Watford High Street (WFH)2 changes
Avanti West CoastW34119+West Midlands TrainsY80847+London OvergroundL22405+Transport for WalesG38873
Delayed
9:23 9:30Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h18
12:48 Watford High Street (WFH)
3 changes
Avanti West CoastW34182+West Midlands TrainsY80859+London OvergroundL22417+Transport for WalesG3887410:30 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h18
13:48 Watford High Street (WFH)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 Watford by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach and flight 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.

Mon
03 Aug
Tue
04 Aug
Wed
05 Aug
Thu
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug
Sun
09 Aug

Why should you book Manchester to Watford trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as West Midlands Trains 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 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 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.

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 21 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. 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 2h 33m.

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 59m
Cheapest ticket price
£13
Trains per day
21
Fastest train
2h 33m
First train
1:00
Last train
22:32
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
14 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: Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains from Manchester to Watford trainsAvanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains 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 Duration
2h 33m
Cheapest Price
£49
Avanti West Coast frequency
16 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 Duration
3h 47m
Cheapest Price
£13
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

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.

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
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 £43.
The train journey from Manchester to Watford covers a distance of 238 km and takes approximately 2h 33m. Trains run 21 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 21 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Watford.
Yes, there is a direct train between Manchester and Watford. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
To get from Manchester to Watford, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Watford.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Watford is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), and it arrives at Watford Junction (WFJ).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Watford is by train, costing approximately £13.
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.
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.
A day trip from Manchester to Watford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 33m. However, there are 20 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 238 km.
In Watford, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as attending performances at the Watford Palace Theatre or exploring the shops and dining options at Intu Watford. For entertainment, try Topgolf Watford, or attend community arts events at The Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre. Nature enthusiasts can visit the Rickmansworth Aquadrome for walking and cycling, or explore Cassiobury Park and its nature reserve. Don't miss the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London for a behind-the-scenes look at the Harry Potter films. Additionally, Watford Museum offers insights into the town's history, while Cheslyn House and Gardens provide a tranquil escape. For luxury, The Grove features beautiful gardens, a golf course, and spa facilities.
To fully explore Watford's attractions, including Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter, Cassiobury Park, and Watford Palace Theatre, a two to three-day visit is recommended.
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 · £4 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · £0.90 · 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.

Manchester VictoriaManchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WYParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

More options for your journey from Manchester to Watford

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

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Watford Manchester to Watford train

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