- Must visit
Dove Cottage
Romantic-era writer's house museum in Grasmere with preserved rooms, manuscripts and guided access to Wordsworth's domestic world.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Ambleside
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 07 Oct
Cheapest price on 07 Oct
£13
Average ticket price on 07 Oct
£24
Fastest journey on 07 Oct
47 m
Average journey duration on 07 Oct
49 m
Trains on 07 Oct
12
Distance
76 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Ambleside is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Ambleside will cost around £24 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.
Fast trains
On Wed 07 Oct, we found 12 trains from Preston to Ambleside, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 47 m .
The slowest trains will take 52 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.
G890629:450h49Preston station (PRE)10:34Staveley station (SVL)£131One-way0 changes- G890629:450h56Preston station (PRE)10:41Windermere station (WDM)£131One-way0 changes
- G8907112:461h01Preston station (PRE)13:47Staveley station (SVL)£181One-way0 changes
- G8907112:461h08Preston station (PRE)13:54Windermere station (WDM)£201One-way0 changes
W85182+G8907112:590h48Preston station (PRE)13:47Staveley station (SVL)£271One-way1 change
- W85174+G853578:580h47Preston station (PRE)9:45Staveley station (SVL)£371One-way1 change
- W85182+G8907112:590h48Preston station (PRE)13:47Staveley station (SVL)£271One-way1 change
- G890629:450h49Preston station (PRE)10:34Staveley station (SVL)£131One-way0 changes
- W85179+G8537412:030h49Preston station (PRE)12:52Staveley station (SVL)£271One-way1 change
W34254+G8536510:420h52Preston station (PRE)11:34Staveley station (SVL)£271One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Ambleside
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Ambleside run on average 12 times per day, taking around 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:42, the last at 21:43. The fastest train covers the 76 km distance in 41m.
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 76 km |
Average train duration 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 41m |
First train 6:42 |
Last train 21:43 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
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
Why should you book Preston to Ambleside trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Preston to Ambleside.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Ambleside.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Ambleside.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Ambleside.
Train companies: Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast from Preston to Ambleside trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Preston and Ambleside from £13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Northern Rail Duration
1h 1m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£13
Northern Rail frequency
4 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 Transpennine Express Duration
42m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£27
Transpennine Express frequency
4 a day
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
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
41m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£27
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 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
Complete guide to Ambleside
Things to do in Ambleside
Discover the best of Ambleside — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ambleside trip today.
- Recommended
Armitt Library and Museum Centre
Local museum and gallery with Lakeland history, art, archaeology and Beatrix Potter material, suitable for a deeper understanding of the area.
- Recommended
Beatrix Potter Gallery
House museum linked to Beatrix Potter and William Heelis, showing period rooms and personal collections in nearby Hawkshead.
- Must visit
Stock Ghyll Force
Popular waterfall walk from the town centre through woodland and rocky scenery. It is short, accessible in parts and rewarding after rain.
- Must visit
Loughrigg Fell
Open hill above Ambleside with a clear path and wide views over Windermere, the town and surrounding fells. Popular at sunrise or sunset.
- Recommended
Borrans Park
Large lakeside green with jetties, picnic space and mountain views. A practical base for walking, boating and relaxing by Windermere.
Cumberland Sausage
A Cumberland sausage served in a spiral coil, seasoned with pepper and herbs. A Lake District and Cumbria classic often seen on local pub menus.
- Gluten-free
Hotpot
Slow-cooked lamb or mutton with onions and sliced potatoes. Long linked to Cumbrian farming life and traditional fellside home cooking.
Cumbrian Rum Nicky
A rich fruitcake made with dried fruit, spice and tea, traditionally baked in Cumbria for fairs, holidays and family gatherings.
The Old Stamp House
Smart yet welcoming dining room serving refined British cooking with seasonal produce in a historic Ambleside setting.
Fellinis
Established vegetarian restaurant with creative plant-based dishes and a relaxed, modern feel in the centre of Ambleside.
Lucy’s on a Plate
Popular old-town restaurant known for tapas-style small plates, local ingredients and a lively but cosy atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Ambleside is pricier than many UK small towns, with higher hotel rates in peak season and dining aimed at visitors, though buses and casual cafés help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food, bakery items, or a simple café meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining or tasting menus.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés do not require tips, but leaving small change is appreciated.
Best day trips from Ambleside by train
The most popular day trips by train from Ambleside are Windermere, Kendal, Lancaster and Oxenholme. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Ambleside on Omio.
Day trip from Ambleside to Windermere by train
Why visit Windermere for the day?
Windermere is best known as a base for exploring England’s largest lake and the wider Lake District. The town has a lively Victorian centre, while nearby Bowness-on-Windermere connects visitors with the water and fell views.
Day trip from Ambleside to Kendal by train
Why visit Kendal for the day?
Kendal is a Cumbrian market town on the edge of the Lake District, known for Kendal Castle and Kendal Mint Cake. Its stone streets, River Kent setting and strong local identity make it feel more lived-in than purely touristic.
Day trip from Ambleside to Lancaster by train
Why visit Lancaster for the day?
Lancaster is known for its castle, Georgian architecture and ties to the House of Lancaster. Its compact centre, River Lune setting and student energy give the city a historic yet easy-going feel.
How to get from Ambleside to Lancaster by train?
The earliest train runs at 05:59, the last at 22:28.
Day trip from Ambleside to Oxenholme by train
Why visit Oxenholme for the day?
Oxenholme is a small Cumbrian settlement best known for its station linking Kendal with the wider Lake District. Close to rolling countryside and the market town of Kendal, it feels quiet, practical and distinctly rural.
FAQs: Preston to Ambleside train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Ambleside 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 Ambleside, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Ambleside can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £22.
The train journey from Preston to Ambleside covers a distance of 76 km and takes approximately 41m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Ambleside is 76 km.
The first train from Preston to Ambleside leaves at 6:42.
The last train from Preston to Ambleside departs at 21:43.
Trains from Preston to Ambleside run approximately 12 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Ambleside.
Yes, there is a direct train between Preston and Ambleside. The service operates 4 times per day, provided by Northern Rail.
There is no night train service from Preston to Ambleside.
The train station in Preston that goes to Ambleside is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Staveley station (SVL).
Booking trains from Preston to Ambleside in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Preston to Ambleside offers scenic views, particularly as it approaches the Lake District, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and glimpses of lakes and charming countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Ambleside.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Ambleside
Most Preston to Ambleside trains use the Preston to Staveley station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Ambleside train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Preston
Arrival train stations in Ambleside
Which Preston station do trains to Ambleside leave from?
Trains from Preston to Ambleside leave from Preston. The station is 1 km from Preston city centre at Fishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom.
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 Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Ambleside
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ambleside and Preston
Most popular train connections to Ambleside
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