Preston to Cambridge train with Avanti West Coast

Mon 12 Oct
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Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
East Midlands Railway
London North Eastern Railway
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
East Midlands Railway
London North Eastern Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Cambridge

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 12 Oct

Cheapest price on 12 Oct

£126

Average ticket price on 12 Oct

£163

Fastest journey on 12 Oct

3 h 15 m

Average journey duration on 12 Oct

3 h 34 m

Trains on 12 Oct

32

Distance

257 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Preston to Cambridge will cost around £163 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £126.

Fast trains

To travel from Preston to Cambridge you need to make at least one change.

  • Caledonian Sleeper
    3:144h59
    Preston
    8:13Cambridge
    £1261One-way
    1 change
  • Caledonian Sleeper
    4:224h21
    Preston
    8:43Cambridge
    £1261One-way
    1 change
  • Avanti West Coast
    19:073h32
    Preston
    22:39Cambridge
    £1611One-way
    1 change
  • Avanti West Coast
    5:333h40
    Preston
    9:13Cambridge
    £1651One-way
    1 change
  • Avanti West Coast
    6:583h15
    Preston
    10:13Cambridge
    £1651One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Train from Preston to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Preston to Cambridge run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £43 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 05:11, the last at 22:51. The fastest train covers the 257 km distance in 3h 2m.

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
257 km
Average train duration
3h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
£43
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
3h 2m
First train
5:11
Last train
22:51
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
35 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

Live departures

Preston to Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Preston to Cambridge trains for today, Sunday 11 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West Coast11:18 Preston
3h56
15:14 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast13:02 Preston
3h12
16:14 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast13:18 Preston
3h56
17:14 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast15:00 Preston
3h14
18:14 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast15:18 Preston
3h56
19:14 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast17:02 Preston
3h12
20:14 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast17:18 Preston
3h56
21:14 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast18:00 Preston
4h14
22:14 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast18:17 Preston
4h51
23:08 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast19:05 Preston
3h45
22:50 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast19:18 Preston
5h07
0:25 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast20:05 Preston
5h34
1:39 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast20:59 Preston
9h20
6:19 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast21:18 Preston
10h51
8:09 Cambridge2 changes
Monday 12 October
Caledonian Sleeper3:14 Preston
4h59
8:13 Cambridge1 change
Caledonian Sleeper4:22 Preston
4h21
8:43 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast5:33 Preston
3h40
9:13 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast6:58 Preston
3h15
10:13 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast7:19 Preston
3h54
11:13 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast8:01 Preston
3h42
11:43 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast8:17 Preston
3h56
12:13 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast9:00 Preston
3h43
12:43 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast9:19 Preston
3h54
13:13 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast10:00 Preston
3h43
13:43 Cambridge1 change
Avanti West Coast10:18 Preston
3h55
14:13 Cambridge2 changes
Avanti West Coast11:00 Preston
3h43
14:43 Cambridge1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Preston to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Northern Rail, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway and more offer trains services from Preston to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Cambridge.

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 Northern Rail, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Cambridge.
  • 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Cambridge.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Cambridge.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Transpennine Express from Preston to Cambridge trainsAvanti West Coast, Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Preston and Cambridge from £43. 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
3h 2m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£72
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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

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
3h 50m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£43
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

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 East Midlands Railway Duration
4h 23m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£52
East Midlands Railway frequency
1 a day
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

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
3h 54m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£43
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
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 pets per passenger
Quiet zone

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
4h 14m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£116
CrossCountry frequency
1 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

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
4h 8m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£104
Transpennine Express frequency
1 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

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

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

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with classical sculptures, paintings, antiquities, and decorative arts. Strong choice for a broad first visit.

  • Recommended

Kettle's Yard

Contemporary art gallery in a former chapel, showing changing exhibitions by modern and international artists near the city centre.

  • Recommended

Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

Museum of Earth sciences with dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and minerals. Compact, family-friendly, and useful for a rainy day.

Pound sterling (£)

Cambridge is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels and dining are above average, but walking and buses help keep transport costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for fine dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips.

Best day trips from Cambridge by train

The most popular day trips by train from Cambridge are London, Ely, Norwich, Peterborough and Bury Saint Edmunds. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cambridge on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Cambridge to London by train

Why visit London for the day?

London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.

How to get from Cambridge to London by train?

There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 79 km distance in 46m.

A view of Ely

Day trip from Cambridge to Ely by train

Why visit Ely for the day?

Ely is a small Cambridgeshire cathedral city known for Ely Cathedral and its setting above the fens. The compact centre and riverside on the Great Ouse give it a calm historic character.

How to get from Cambridge to Ely by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 11m.

A view of Norwich

Day trip from Cambridge to Norwich by train

Why visit Norwich for the day?

Norwich is known for its Norman cathedral, medieval lanes and strong independent character. Its historic market, literary links and mix of old churches and creative spaces give it a lively but relaxed feel.

How to get from Cambridge to Norwich by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 93 km distance in 1h 3m.

A view of Peterborough

Day trip from Cambridge to Peterborough by train

Why visit Peterborough for the day?

Peterborough is known for its magnificent Norman cathedral, Roman heritage and broad modern city centre. It balances historic character with a practical, multicultural feel, while Ferry Meadows and the nearby Fens bring welcome open space.

How to get from Cambridge to Peterborough by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 48 km distance in 43m.

A view of Bury Saint Edmunds

Day trip from Cambridge to Bury Saint Edmunds by train

Why visit Bury Saint Edmunds for the day?

Bury Saint Edmunds is a historic Suffolk market town known for its abbey ruins, cathedral and Georgian centre. It has a compact feel, with Abbey Gardens, independent shops and a long brewing heritage giving it character.

How to get from Cambridge to Bury Saint Edmunds by train?

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 37m.

FAQs: Preston to Cambridge train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £43, while the average price tends to be around £108.
The train journey from Preston to Cambridge covers a distance of 257 km and takes approximately 3h 2m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Cambridge is 257 km.
The first train from Preston to Cambridge leaves at 5:11.
The last train from Preston to Cambridge departs at 22:51.
Trains from Preston to Cambridge run approximately 5 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Preston to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Cambridge.
There is no night train service from Preston to Cambridge.
The train station in Preston that goes to Cambridge is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Cambridge station (CBG).
Booking trains from Preston to Cambridge 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 Cambridge offers a mix of urban and countryside views. As you travel south, you pass through the scenic landscapes of the Pennines and the picturesque countryside of East Anglia, providing a pleasant visual experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Cambridge.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Cambridge

Most Preston to Cambridge trains use the Preston to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge South. Use this guide to compare Preston and Cambridge 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 Cambridge

Which Preston station do trains to Cambridge leave from?

Trains from Preston to Cambridge 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 4950WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 Preston to Cambridge

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

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