- Must visit
West Highland Museum
Town museum covering local archaeology, Jacobite history, the West Highland railway and mountain life in Lochaber.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Fort William
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Fort William run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £50 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 07:44, the last at 14:41. The fastest train covers the 371 km distance in 6h 12m.
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 371 km |
Average train duration 6h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price £50 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 6h 12m |
First train 7:44 |
Last train 14:41 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Preston to Fort William trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Preston to Fort William.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Fort William can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £50, while the average price tends to be around £70.
The train journey from Preston to Fort William covers a distance of 371 km and takes approximately 6h 12m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Fort William is 371 km.
The first train from Preston to Fort William leaves at 7:44.
The last train from Preston to Fort William departs at 14:41.
Trains from Preston to Fort William run approximately 2 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Fort William.
Why should you book Preston to Fort William trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Fort William.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Fort William.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Fort William.
- 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Fort William.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- 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 Fort William.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Fort William.
Train companies: Scotrail, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Fort William trainsScotrail, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Fort William from £50. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
6h 12m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£50
Scotrail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance 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
8h 27m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£77
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Preston and Fort William
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Fort William.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Fort William.
Complete guide to Fort William
Things to do in Fort William
Discover the best of Fort William — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Fort William trip today.
- Recommended
The Ice Factor National Centre for Mountain Rescue
Small museum on Scotland's mountain rescue history, with equipment, stories and displays connected to Ben Nevis and Lochaber.
- Recommended
Glenfinnan Station Museum
Seasonal heritage centre at Glenfinnan Station with exhibits on the West Highland Line, local history and famous film locations.
- Must visit
Glen Nevis
Scenic glen south of town with walking and cycling routes, river views and the main access area for Ben Nevis footpaths.
- Recommended
Cow Hill Circuit
Popular long-distance walking and cycling route along a former railway, linking Fort William with countryside and lochside scenery.
- Recommended
Fort William Seafront
Promenade area beside Loch Linnhe for short walks, sunsets and views across the water towards the Ardgour hills.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A warming Highland soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Popular across the west coast and well suited to the local fishing tradition.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding made with sheep offal, oats and spices. A classic supper in Highland inns and restaurants.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Clapshot
A traditional side of mashed potatoes with butter and greens, often kale or cabbage. Common with Highland meat and game dishes.
The Wildcat
Well-known local café and bakery for breakfasts, soups, sandwiches and cakes. Casual, dependable stop in the town centre.
Ben Nevis Inn
Lively traditional pub serving hearty Scottish meals and local drinks. Good choice for haggis, fish dishes and an easy-going evening.
Crannog Seafood Restaurant
Relaxed modern bistro known for Highland produce, seafood and steaks. Popular central spot with a polished but informal atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the Highlands: lodging and tours can be pricey in peak season, but pub meals, buses and casual cafés are manageable versus busier UK tourist hubs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food, bakery items or a simple café meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a pub or restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35+ per person for a higher-end dinner.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional but appreciated. In restaurants, leave 10-12.5% for good service if not included. Round up in cafés and taxis.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Fort William Station -> Fort William Transport Centre
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment cards are accepted on Highland Council buses, and mobile tickets are available in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Fort William Station is close to the town centre, so walking is often quickest for central stops and the Transport Centre.
Plan your visit to Fort William
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Fort William.
Yes, the train journey from Preston to Fort William is considered scenic, offering views of the Lake District, the Scottish Highlands, and crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
FAQs: Preston to Fort William train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Fort William 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 Fort William, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Preston to Fort William in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Fort William.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Fort William
Most Preston to Fort William trains use the Preston to Fort William station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Fort William 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 Fort William
Which Preston station do trains to Fort William leave from?
Trains from Preston to Fort William 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 Fort William station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Fort William arrive at Fort William. Fort William is 1 km from Fort William city centre.
Fort WilliamFort William station, Tom-na-Faire, Station Square, Fort William, Highland, PH33 6TQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Fort William from Fort William city centre
Bus521, 147, 146, 46, 47, 522, X47 · 6m · £2 · every ~6 min
592 · 11m
Fort William train station facilities and services
Fort William has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Fort William.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Fort William.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Fort William. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Fort William: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Fort William: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Fort William: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Preston to Fort William
Check train stations information for Preston and Fort William, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Preston that goes to Fort William is Preston, and it arrives at Fort William.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Fort William
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Fort William and Preston
Most popular train connections to Fort William
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
