- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
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Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Poole to Preston
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Poole to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £72 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 29m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £72, while a train costs an average of £298.
Distance: 343 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£298 Average Price | £72 Average Price Cheapest | £68 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 29m Average total duration Fastest 4h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 14m Average total duration 9h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Poole to Preston is a coach with an average price of £72.
This is compared to other travel options from Poole to Preston:
A coach is £226 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Poole to Preston costing on average £298.
The fastest way to travel from Poole to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 4h 59m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Coach takes on average 9h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Poole and Preston including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 34m sooner (4h 59m by train vs 5h 33m by car). Tickets start at around £298 compared to roughly £68 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Poole to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Poole to Preston trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:07 Poole | 5h44 | 14:51 Preston | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Poole 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.
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Why should you book Poole to Preston trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from Poole to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Poole to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Poole 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Poole to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Poole to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Poole to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Poole to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Poole to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £283 but you can travel from only £56 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:57, the last at 19:07. The fastest train covers the 343 km distance in 5h 39m.
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 £56
Distance 343 km |
Average train duration 4h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £283 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 39m |
First train 4:57 |
Last train 19:07 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 £56
Train companies: CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Poole to Preston trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Poole and Preston from £56. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
5h 44m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£133
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
5h 39m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£283
South Western Railway frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
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: Poole to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Poole 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 Poole to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £283, while the average price tends to be around £298.
The train journey from Poole to Preston covers a distance of 343 km and takes approximately 5h 39m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Poole to Preston is 343 km.
The first train from Poole to Preston leaves at 4:57.
The last train from Poole to Preston departs at 19:07.
Trains from Poole to Preston run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Poole to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Poole to Preston.
To get from Poole to Preston, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Poole to Preston.
The train station in Poole that goes to Preston is Poole station (POO), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Poole to Preston is by coach, costing approximately £56.
Booking trains from Poole 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 Poole to Preston offers a mix of urban and countryside views. Travellers can enjoy sights of the English countryside, including rolling hills and charming villages, especially as the train passes through areas in the Southwest and the Midlands. While not considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK, it still provides pleasant and varied landscapes along the way.
A day trip from Poole to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 39m. However, there are 4 trains per day covering a distance of 343 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 Poole to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Poole and Preston
Most Poole to Preston trains use the Poole to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Poole and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Poole
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Poole station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Poole to Preston leave from Poole. The station is 1 km from Poole city centre at Poole station, Serpentine Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BQ.
PoolePoole station, Serpentine Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Poole from Poole city centre
Poole is 1 km from Poole city centre. Public transport options include:
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation forecourt, off Serpentine Road
Poole train station facilities and services
Poole has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Poole.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Poole. ATMs are available at Poole.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Poole.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Poole: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Poole: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Poole: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - There is level access to both sides of the station by ramps. Interchange between platforms is via a ramped underpass at the London end of the platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Parkstone (Dorset)Parkstone station, Station Road, Parkstone, Dorset, BH14 8UD
City-centre transport
Getting to Parkstone (Dorset) from Poole city centre
Parkstone (Dorset) is 3 km from Poole city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPoole - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Southampton Central, Weymouth - Bournemouth, Poole - Brockenhurst, Poole - Winchester, Poole - Bournemouth, Weymouth - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Poole - Southampton Central · 3m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Buscity_sightseeing_bournemouth · 7m · every ~2 min
m1, 419, 449, N1 · 13m · £2 · every ~34 min
m1, U2, N1 · 14m · £2 · every ~47 min
Parkstone (Dorset) train station facilities and services
Parkstone (Dorset) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Parkstone (Dorset).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Parkstone (Dorset).
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Parkstone (Dorset): Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Parkstone (Dorset): Bike Parking.
Which Preston station do trains from Poole arrive at?
Trains from Poole to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Poole to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Poole
Most popular train connections to Preston
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