Preston to Chester train with Avanti West Coast

Wed 15 Jul
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
Caledonian Sleeper
Northern Trains Limited
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
Caledonian Sleeper
Northern Trains Limited
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Chester

Showing times and prices for 15 Jul

Cheapest price

£37

Average price

£37

Fastest journey

1 h 1 m

Average duration

1 h 16 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

65 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Preston to Chester will cost around £37 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £37.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Preston for Chester every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 65 km distance in an average of 1 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 1 m .

The slowest trains will take 1 h 24 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.

  • Northern Rail
    6:001h11
    Preston
    7:11Chester
    £371One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    16:181h24
    Preston
    17:42Chester
    £371One-way
    0 changes
  • Northern Rail
    9:001h01
    Preston
    10:01Chester
    £371One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    6:181h23
    Preston
    7:41Chester
    £371One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    7:181h23
    Preston
    8:41Chester
    £371One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Preston to Chester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Chester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £21, and a train costs an average of £16.

Distance: 65 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£33

Average Price

£21

Average Price

Cheapest

1h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

4h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Preston to Chester train times

The table below shows live departures for Preston to Chester trains for today, Tuesday 14 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW34029+Northern RailG89076
On time
8:01 Preston station (PRE)
1h01
9:02 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34271+Transport for WalesG38623
On time
8:17 Preston station (PRE)
1h27
9:44 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34271+Transport for WalesG38399
On time
8:17 Preston station (PRE)
1h32
9:49 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34181+Northern RailG89080
On time
9:00 Preston station (PRE)
1h01
10:01 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34265+Transport for WalesG38625
On time
9:19 Preston station (PRE)
1h25
10:44 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34265+Transport for WalesG38403
On time
9:19 Preston station (PRE)
1h30
10:49 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34028+Northern RailG89084
On time
10:00 Preston station (PRE)
1h01
11:01 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW33903+Transport for WalesG38627
On time
10:18 Preston station (PRE)
1h26
11:44 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW33903+Transport for WalesG38405
On time
10:18 Preston station (PRE)
1h33
11:51 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34039+Northern RailG89086
On time
11:00 Preston station (PRE)
1h01
12:01 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW33933+Transport for WalesG38629
On time
11:18 Preston station (PRE)
1h26
12:44 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW33933+Transport for WalesG38409
On time
11:18 Preston station (PRE)
1h31
12:49 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW33970+Northern RailG89092
On time
12:00 Preston station (PRE)
1h01
13:01 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastC01362+Transport for WalesG38631
On time
12:18 Preston station (PRE)
1h26
13:44 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastC01362+Transport for WalesG38413
On time
12:18 Preston station (PRE)
1h31
13:49 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW33973+Northern RailG89095
On time
13:00 Preston station (PRE)
1h01
14:01 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34060+Transport for WalesG38635
On time
13:17 Preston station (PRE)
1h27
14:44 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34060+Transport for WalesG38415
On time
13:17 Preston station (PRE)
1h32
14:49 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34172+Northern RailG89098
On time
14:00 Preston station (PRE)
1h01
15:01 Chester station (CTR)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW34160+Transport for WalesG38637
On time
14:18 Preston station (PRE)
1h26
15:44 Chester station (CTR)
1 change

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Preston to Chester by train or coach

Compare train and coach 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.

Wed
15 Jul
Thu
16 Jul
Fri
17 Jul
Sat
18 Jul
Sun
19 Jul
Mon
20 Jul
Tue
21 Jul

Why should you book Preston to Chester trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Preston to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Chester.

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, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Chester.
  • 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 Chester.

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, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Chester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Chester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Preston to Chester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Preston to Chester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £16 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:51, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 65 km distance in 1h 1m.

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
65 km
Average train duration
54m
Cheapest ticket price
£16
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
1h 1m
First train
3:51
Last train
22:50
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
3 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, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Preston to Chester trainsAvanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Preston and Chester from £16. 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 Duration
1h 1m
Cheapest Price
£36
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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 Duration
1h 1m
Cheapest Price
£16
Northern Rail frequency
2 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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
£37
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). 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 Duration
2h 14m
Cheapest Price
£33
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

Northern Trains Limited

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 47m
Cheapest Price
£30
Northern Trains Limited frequency
7 a day

TransPennine Express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 38m
Cheapest Price
£28
TransPennine Express frequency
5 a day

FAQs: Preston to Chester train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £16, while the average price tends to be around £33.
The train journey from Preston to Chester covers a distance of 65 km and takes approximately 1h 1m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Chester is 65 km.
The first train from Preston to Chester leaves at 3:51.
The last train from Preston to Chester departs at 22:50.
Trains from Preston to Chester run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Chester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Chester.
To get from Preston to Chester, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Chester.
The train station in Preston that goes to Chester is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Chester station (CTR).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Chester is by train, costing approximately £16.
Booking trains from Preston to Chester 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 Chester offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the English countryside, small towns, and occasional glimpses of the River Mersey, making it a pleasantly scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Preston to Chester is feasible. The journey takes 1h 1m and covers 65 km. Trains run 5 times per day.
In Chester, you can visit Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, or explore the Grosvenor Museum for local history and art. Enjoy a walk or boat trip along the River Dee, or experience cultural offerings at Storyhouse. The Cheshire Military Museum provides insights into military history. Don't miss the stunning Chester Cathedral, the historical Chester Roman Amphitheatre, and the well-preserved Chester City Walls for panoramic views. The Eastgate Clock and The Rows offer iconic sights and unique shopping experiences.
A stay of two to three days in Chester is typically sufficient to explore its historic sites, such as Chester Cathedral, the Roman walls, and the Rows, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Chester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Chester

Most Preston to Chester trains use the Preston to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Chester 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 Chester

Which Preston station do trains to Chester leave from?

Trains from Preston to Chester 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 Chester

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

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Chester Preston to Chester train

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