- Must visit
The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum
Cheltenham's main museum and art gallery, covering local history, decorative arts and changing exhibitions in a central Regency building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Cheltenham
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£40
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£47
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
2 h 56 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
3 h 19 m
Trains on 18 Sept
2
Distance
212 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Cheltenham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Cheltenham will cost around £47 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £40.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 trains from Preston to Cheltenham, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 212 km distance in an average of 3 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 56 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 41 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.
12:182h56Preston15:14Cheltenham£401One-way0 changes
5:503h41Preston9:31Cheltenham£541One-way0 changes
- 12:182h56Preston15:14Cheltenham£401One-way0 changes
- 5:503h41Preston9:31Cheltenham£541One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Preston to Cheltenham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Cheltenham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £89 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 4m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £89, while a train costs an average of £89.
Distance: 212 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£89 Average Price Cheapest | £41 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Cheltenham is a train with an average price of £89.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Cheltenham is by train with an average journey time of 2h 34m.
Yes, you can take a train between Preston and Cheltenham.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 19m sooner (2h 34m by train vs 2h 53m by car). Tickets start at around £89 compared to roughly £41 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.
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Cheltenham by train
Compare 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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18 Sept
18 Sept
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19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
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21 Sept
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24 Sept
Why should you book Preston to Cheltenham trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Cheltenham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Cheltenham.
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 Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Cheltenham.
- 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 Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Cheltenham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Cheltenham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Cheltenham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £87 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:50, the last at 20:40. The fastest train covers the 212 km distance in 2h 30m.
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 212 km |
Average train duration 2h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £87 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 30m |
First train 5:50 |
Last train 20:40 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
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, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Cheltenham trainsAvanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Cheltenham from £87. 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
2h 30m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£87
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
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Caledonian Sleeper Duration
3h 37m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£95
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Cheltenham
Things to do in Cheltenham
Discover the best of Cheltenham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cheltenham trip today.
- Recommended
Holst Victorian House Spa Museum
Museum in Pittville Pump Room exploring Cheltenham's spa history, with displays on mineral waters, visitors and Regency society.
- Recommended
Holst Victorian House
Composer Gustav Holst's birthplace, furnished with period rooms and musical displays that bring Victorian Cheltenham to life.
- Must visit
Imperial Gardens
Formal Regency gardens beside the Promenade, popular for walks, floral displays, events and views of historic Cheltenham buildings.
- Must visit
Pittville Park
Large ornamental park with lake, playgrounds and broad paths, ideal for relaxed walks near the famous Pump Room.
- Recommended
Montpellier
Leafy district known for Regency architecture, boutiques and garden spaces, offering one of Cheltenham's most elegant walking areas.
- Gluten-free
Gloucester Old Spot Pork
Gloucester Old Spot pork from a traditional local breed, often served as roast or sausages. It is closely linked to Gloucestershire farming heritage.
- Gluten-free
Gloucester Cheese
Single or double Gloucester is a historic local cheese from Gloucestershire, prized for its rich, creamy taste and long county tradition.
- Gluten-free
Stinking Bishop Cheese
A hard-pressed cow’s milk cheese from nearby Gloucestershire, traditionally matured for a full, nutty flavour and strong regional identity.
Le Champignon Sauvage
Refined modern British dining in elegant surroundings, known for polished tasting menus and carefully sourced seasonal ingredients.
Petit Coco
Long-established French bistro with a lively, relaxed feel. Known for steak frites, seafood and classic brasserie dishes.
The Ox
Stylish contemporary restaurant serving seasonal British cooking, craft drinks and brunch in a smart but informal setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining are pricier than smaller towns, but cheaper than London; local buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 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
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafés: rounding up is fine. Taxis: round up or tip about 10% for good service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Cheltenham Spa -> Cheltenham Town Centre, Promenade
- Distance
- 3.4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless payment is available on all Stagecoach buses in Cheltenham.
- Cheltenham local buses are operated by Stagecoach; buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app or on board.
FAQs: Preston to Cheltenham train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Cheltenham can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £87, while the average price tends to be around £89.
The train journey from Preston to Cheltenham covers a distance of 212 km and takes approximately 2h 30m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Cheltenham is 212 km.
The first train from Preston to Cheltenham leaves at 5:50.
The last train from Preston to Cheltenham departs at 20:40.
Trains from Preston to Cheltenham run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Cheltenham.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Cheltenham.
To travel from Preston to Cheltenham, you can take a train.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Cheltenham.
The train station in Preston that goes to Cheltenham is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Cheltenham Spa (CNM).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Cheltenham is by train, costing approximately £87.
Booking trains from Preston to Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds and the rolling hills of the English countryside, providing a visually pleasant experience.
A day trip from Preston to Cheltenham is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 30m. However, there are 5 trains per day available for this route, covering a distance of 212 km.
In Cheltenham, you can attend the Cheltenham Literature Festival, enjoy a scenic walk or boat ride at Pittville Park, explore art at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, and experience horse racing at Cheltenham Racecourse. Discover vibrant cafes and boutique shops in Montpellier District. Key sights include the historic Pittville Pump Room, Sandford Parks Lido, and the Regency architecture of Montpellier District.
A stay of around two to three days in Cheltenham is ideal to enjoy its Regency architecture, explore the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty nearby, and visit attractions such as Pittville Park and the Holst Birthplace Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Cheltenham.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Cheltenham
Most Preston to Cheltenham trains use the Preston to Cheltenham Spa station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham
Which Preston station do trains to Cheltenham leave from?
Trains from Preston to Cheltenham 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.
Which Cheltenham station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Cheltenham arrive at Cheltenham Spa. Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · £4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Cheltenham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cheltenham and Preston
Most popular train connections to Cheltenham
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