- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Nottingham to Preston
Showing times and prices for 03 Aug
Cheapest price
£24
Average price
£26
Fastest journey
2 h 47 m
Average duration
3 h 3 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
138 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nottingham to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nottingham to Preston will cost around £26 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £24.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Nottingham for Preston 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 138 km distance in an average of 3 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 47 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 12 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.
8:453h12Nottingham11:57Preston£241One-way0 changes- 4:213h11Nottingham7:32Preston£241One-way0 changes
- 7:452h47Nottingham10:32Preston£301One-way0 changes
- 7:452h47Nottingham10:32Preston£301One-way0 changes
- 4:213h11Nottingham7:32Preston£241One-way0 changes
- 8:453h12Nottingham11:57Preston£241One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Nottingham to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Nottingham to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £25, and a train costs an average of £22.
Distance: 138 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£46 Average Price | £37 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 29m Average total duration Fastest 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 6m Average total duration 5h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Nottingham to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Nottingham to Preston trains for tomorrow, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:21 Nottingham | 3h11 | 7:32 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:45 Nottingham | 2h47 | 10:32 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:45 Nottingham | 3h12 | 11:57 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Nottingham to Preston by coach or train
Compare coach and 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.
Mon
03 Aug
03 Aug
Tue
04 Aug
04 Aug
Wed
05 Aug
05 Aug
Thu
06 Aug
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug
08 Aug
Sun
09 Aug
09 Aug
Why should you book Nottingham to Preston trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Nottingham to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Nottingham to Preston.
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 Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham to Preston.
- 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 East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Nottingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Nottingham to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Nottingham to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Nottingham to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £22 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:08, the last at 22:47. The fastest train covers the 138 km distance in 2h 47m.
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 138 km |
Average train duration 2h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £22 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 47m |
First train 5:08 |
Last train 22:47 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country from Nottingham to Preston trainsEast Midlands Railway, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Nottingham and Preston from £22. 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
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
£22
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
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 52m
Cheapest Price
£62
Northern Rail frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
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 dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Price
£54
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest Price
£38
east_midlands_trains frequency
22 a day
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
£76
Cross Country frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
The Egypt Centre
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
- Recommended
Ribble Steam Railway and Museum
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
- Must visit
Avenham Park
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
- Recommended
Miller Park
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
- Recommended
Preston Docklands
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
- Vegetarian
Simnel Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
263 Restaurant
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Angelo's
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
The Continental
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 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 expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Preston Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.50
To the city centre
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Most local buses in Preston support contactless Tap and Go; fares are capped at the Day Ticket price on participating Preston Bus services.
- Check the operator before boarding. Preston fares and app tickets may differ from other bus operators in the city.
FAQs: Nottingham to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nottingham to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Nottingham to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £22, while the average price tends to be around £46.
The train journey from Nottingham to Preston covers a distance of 138 km and takes approximately 2h 47m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Nottingham to Preston is 138 km.
The first train from Nottingham to Preston leaves at 5:08.
The last train from Nottingham to Preston departs at 22:47.
Trains from Nottingham to Preston run approximately 7 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Nottingham to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Nottingham to Preston.
To get from Nottingham to Preston, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Nottingham to Preston.
The train station in Nottingham that goes to Preston is Nottingham station (NOT), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Nottingham to Preston is by train, costing approximately £22.
Booking trains from Nottingham to Preston in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Nottingham to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with stretches of picturesque countryside, charming villages, and views of the Peak District, making it a pleasant and varied route.
A day trip from Nottingham to Preston is not feasible because the journey takes 2h 47m. Trains run 7 times per day, covering a distance of 138 km.
To fully explore Preston's key attractions, such as the Harris Museum, Avenham and Miller Parks, and the Ribble Steam Railway, a stay of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Nottingham to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Nottingham and Preston
Most Nottingham to Preston trains use the Nottingham to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Nottingham and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Nottingham
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Nottingham station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Nottingham to Preston leave from Nottingham. The station is 1 km from Nottingham city centre at Nottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ.
NottinghamNottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to Nottingham from Nottingham city centre
Bus9B, 8, 11, 6, 10, 9, 11C, 10C, 10X, 7, 5, 5A, 11B, 12, 12C, 12E, 10A · 3m · every ~58 min
48, 1, 3, 48X, 1A, 48A, 3A, N4, 1B, 1E · 4m · every ~24 min
Kc · 5m · £4 · every ~12 min
20 · 10m
TramTram · 4m · £4 · every ~58 min
Nottingham train station facilities and services
Nottingham has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Nottingham.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Nottingham.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Nottingham. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Nottingham: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Nottingham: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nottingham: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a category A access station. There are lifts available to all platforms and there is level and ramp access to the concourse and ticket office/machines. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: none, Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on useful information poster at station, 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.
Which Preston station do trains from Nottingham arrive at?
Trains from Nottingham to Preston most often arrive at Preston. Some services arrive at Bamber Bridge, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Preston arrival station.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · £8 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Nottingham
More options for your journey from Nottingham to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Nottingham
Most popular train connections to Preston
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
