- Must visit
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Main local museum covering Highland history, archaeology, Jacobite stories and natural heritage. A strong introduction to Inverness and the region.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Inverness
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 27 Sept
Cheapest price on 27 Sept
£133
Average ticket price on 27 Sept
£138
Fastest journey on 27 Sept
6 h 5 m
Average journey duration on 27 Sept
6 h 13 m
Trains on 27 Sept
3
Distance
423 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Inverness will cost around £138 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £133.
Fast trains
To travel from Preston to Inverness you need to make at least one change.
W85184+
C1469213:056h05Preston station (PRE)19:10Inverness station (INV)£1331One-way1 change
G80220+
W3337313:546h16Preston station (PRE)20:10Inverness station (INV)£1381One-way1 change- W85178+C1469111:086h17Preston station (PRE)17:25Inverness station (INV)£1451One-way1 change
- W85184+C1469213:056h05Preston station (PRE)19:10Inverness station (INV)£1331One-way1 change
- G80220+W3337313:546h16Preston station (PRE)20:10Inverness station (INV)£1381One-way1 change
- W85178+C1469111:086h17Preston station (PRE)17:25Inverness station (INV)£1451One-way1 change
Live departures
Preston to Inverness train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Inverness trains for today, Saturday 26 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:59 Preston | 7h06 | 20:05 Inverness | 0 changesdirect | |
| Sunday 27 September | |||||
| W85178+C14691 | 11:08 Preston station (PRE) | 6h17 | 17:25 Inverness station (INV) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Inverness by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight 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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27 Sept
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Why should you book Preston to Inverness trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as London North Eastern Railway, Scotrail, Lumo, Avanti West Coast and more offer trains services from Preston to Inverness.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Inverness.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, Scotrail, Lumo or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Inverness.
- 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Inverness.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, Scotrail, Lumo or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Inverness.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Inverness.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Inverness run on average 4 times per day, taking around 6h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £57 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 423 km distance in 5h 45m.
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 423 km |
Average train duration 6h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price £57 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 5h 45m |
First train 0:20 |
Last train 20:45 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 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: Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Lumo from Preston to Inverness trainsScotrail, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Lumo trains will get you between Preston and Inverness from £57. 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
5h 52m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£123
Scotrail frequency
1 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
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
5h 45m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£57
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
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
5h 54m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£80
Avanti West Coast 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
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
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
6h 7m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£114
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
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£68
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Inverness
Things to do in Inverness
Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.
- Recommended
The Highlanders' Museum
Small military museum at Fort George with regimental collections, uniforms and medals. Best for visitors interested in Highland army history.
Highland Archive Centre
Community museum in a former church telling the story of Highland life through local artefacts, archives and changing displays near central Inverness.
- Must visit
Ness Islands
Tree-lined riverside walk linking islands, bridges and paths on the River Ness. Popular for gentle walks, views and a peaceful break near the centre.
- Recommended
Ness Walk
Attractive promenade along the River Ness with mature trees, historic buildings and access to the cathedral, theatre and city centre walks.
- Recommended
Muirtown Locks
Canal-side walking area south-west of the city where boats pass through locks. It offers easy waterside views and a different side of Inverness.
- Vegetarian
Scottish Porridge
Classic Highland porridge made with oats, water or milk, and salt. A staple breakfast in the Highlands, prized for warmth and simplicity.
- Gluten-free
Black Isle Smoked Salmon
Cured salmon from the nearby Black Isle, often lightly smoked. It showcases the region’s excellent fish and traditional smoking methods.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet and spice, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s most famous traditional dish.
MacGregor's Bar
Well-known traditional venue for haggis, pies and Scottish comfort food, with a lively, informal feel in the city centre.
The Mustard Seed
Popular modern bistro serving Scottish seafood, steaks and classics in a relaxed central setting by the River Ness.
Rocpool Restaurant
Stylish restaurant focused on local Highland produce, including venison, beef and seafood, with a smart but welcoming atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: accommodation can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are similar to other regional tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafés do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Inverness Airport -> Inverness Bus Station, Inverness
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses in Inverness. You can also buy mobile tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Inverness bus fares are currently capped at £2 single on included Highlands services. Check the operator before travel if you are using a non-Stagecoach or council-run route.
FAQs: Preston to Inverness train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Inverness 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 Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Inverness can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £57, while the average price tends to be around £118.
The train journey from Preston to Inverness covers a distance of 423 km and takes approximately 5h 45m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Inverness is 423 km.
The first train from Preston to Inverness leaves at 0:20.
The last train from Preston to Inverness departs at 20:45.
Trains from Preston to Inverness run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Inverness.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Inverness.
There is no night train service from Preston to Inverness.
The train station in Preston that goes to Inverness is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Inverness station (INV).
Booking trains from Preston to Inverness in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Preston to Inverness offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the Lake District, rolling hills, and the stunning Scottish Highlands.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Inverness.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Inverness
Most Preston to Inverness trains use the Preston to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Inverness 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 Inverness
Which Preston station do trains to Inverness leave from?
Trains from Preston to Inverness 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 Inverness station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Inverness arrive at Inverness. Inverness is from Inverness city centre.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. 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, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: 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 automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3, 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: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Inverness
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Inverness and Preston
Most popular train connections to Inverness
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