- Must visit
Dean Castle
Medieval castle with period interiors, collections, and musical instruments set in a large country park. It is Kilmarnock’s standout heritage attraction.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Kilmarnock
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Sept
Cheapest price on 15 Sept
£94
Average ticket price on 15 Sept
£111
Fastest journey on 15 Sept
2 h 58 m
Average journey duration on 15 Sept
3 h 5 m
Trains on 15 Sept
15
Distance
235 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Kilmarnock is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Kilmarnock will cost around £111 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £94.
Fast trains
To travel from Preston to Kilmarnock you need to make at least one change.
3:504h01Preston7:51Kilmarnock£941One-way1 change
6:443h13Preston9:57Kilmarnock£1111One-way1 change- 8:143h37Preston11:51Kilmarnock£1111One-way1 change
- 12:543h03Preston15:57Kilmarnock£1111One-way1 change
- 14:543h03Preston17:57Kilmarnock£1111One-way1 change
10:592h58Preston13:57Kilmarnock£1131One-way1 change- 12:543h03Preston15:57Kilmarnock£1111One-way1 change
- 14:543h03Preston17:57Kilmarnock£1111One-way1 change
- 9:413h10Preston12:51Kilmarnock£1121One-way1 change
- 12:413h10Preston15:51Kilmarnock£1121One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Preston to Kilmarnock
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Kilmarnock among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £53 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £53, while a train costs an average of £112.
Distance: 235 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£112 Average Price | £53 Average Price Cheapest | £49 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 44m Average total duration Fastest 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 44m Average total duration 5h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Kilmarnock is a coach with an average price of £53.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Kilmarnock:
A coach is £59 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Kilmarnock costing on average £112.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Kilmarnock is by train with an average journey time of 3h 14m.
Other travel options to Kilmarnock take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Kilmarnock including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 8m sooner (3h 14m by train vs 3h 22m by car). Tickets start at around £112 compared to roughly £49 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.
Live departures
Preston to Kilmarnock train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Kilmarnock trains for today, Monday 14 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:41 Preston | 3h11 | 14:52 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 12:41 Preston | 3h10 | 15:51 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 12:54 Preston | 3h03 | 15:57 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 13:41 Preston | 3h10 | 16:51 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 14:41 Preston | 3h11 | 17:52 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 14:54 Preston | 3h03 | 17:57 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 15:41 Preston | 3h09 | 18:50 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 16:04 Preston | 3h47 | 19:51 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 16:42 Preston | 3h00 | 19:42 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 16:53 Preston | 3h28 | 20:21 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 17:41 Preston | 3h13 | 20:54 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 18:41 Preston | 3h16 | 21:57 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 18:53 Preston | 3h32 | 22:25 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 19:42 Preston | 3h09 | 22:51 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 21:43 Preston | 9h31 | 7:14 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 3:50 Preston | 4h01 | 7:51 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 5:36 Preston | 4h15 | 9:51 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 6:44 Preston | 3h13 | 9:57 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 8:14 Preston | 3h37 | 11:51 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 8:53 Preston | 3h27 | 12:20 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 9:41 Preston | 3h10 | 12:51 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 10:42 Preston | 3h12 | 13:54 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 10:53 Preston | 3h28 | 14:21 Kilmarnock | 1 change | |
| 10:59 Preston | 2h58 | 13:57 Kilmarnock | 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 Kilmarnock by coach or train
Compare coach and 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.
Tue
15 Sept
15 Sept
Wed
16 Sept
16 Sept
Thu
17 Sept
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
20 Sept
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21 Sept
21 Sept
Why should you book Preston to Kilmarnock trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Caledonian Sleeper or TransPennine Express offer trains services from Preston to Kilmarnock.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Kilmarnock.
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 or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Kilmarnock.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Kilmarnock.
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 or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Kilmarnock.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Kilmarnock.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Kilmarnock
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Kilmarnock run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £94 but you can travel from only £31 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:36, the last at 18:59. The fastest train covers the 235 km distance in 2h 58m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £31
Distance 235 km |
Average train duration 3h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price £94 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 58m |
First train 5:36 |
Last train 18:59 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £31
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express from Preston to Kilmarnock trainsAvanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Preston and Kilmarnock from £31. 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 59m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£111
Avanti West Coast frequency
12 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 58m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£94
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
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
£113
TransPennine Express frequency
4 a day
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express from Preston to Kilmarnock trainsAvanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Preston and Kilmarnock from £31. 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 59m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£111
Avanti West Coast frequency
12 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 58m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£94
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
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
£113
TransPennine Express frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Kilmarnock
Things to do in Kilmarnock
Discover the best of Kilmarnock — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kilmarnock trip today.
- Must visit
The Dick Institute
Town-centre museum gallery presenting local history, changing exhibitions, and cultural displays. A useful introduction to Kilmarnock and East Ayrshire.
- Recommended
Burns Monument Centre Museum
Small museum in the Burns Monument Centre exploring the life and influence of poet Robert Burns in Ayrshire. A rewarding stop for literature enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Dean Castle Country Park
Large country park with woodland walks, play areas, ponds, and the castle. It is ideal for an easy half-day visit combining nature and heritage.
- Recommended
Kay Park
Victorian park with broad paths, mature trees, and a pond near the town centre. It is a pleasant place for a walk and local people-watching.
King Street
Pedestrianised central street lined with shops and historic buildings. It is useful for seeing everyday town life and exploring the heart of Kilmarnock.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Irn-Bru
A famous Ayrshire soft drink made with citrus oils and secret flavourings. It was first produced in Kilmarnock and remains the town’s best-known local drink.
Scotch Broth
Traditional Scottish broth of lamb or mutton, barley and root vegetables. It is a hearty staple long associated with Ayrshire farm cooking.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onion and milk or cream. It is a classic west coast comfort dish served across Ayrshire.
The Indian by Vineel
Stylish Indian restaurant known for curries, grilled dishes and attentive service in a polished but relaxed setting.
La Dragonera
Long-established Italian venue serving pizza, pasta and classic mains in a busy, family-friendly town-centre setting.
The First Edition
Popular steakhouse and grill with burgers, ribs and mixed grills, offering a lively casual atmosphere for groups and families.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Meals, lodging and local travel are usually cheaper than in Glasgow or Edinburgh, but costs are above many smaller towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares. Cafe tipping is optional.
FAQs: Preston to Kilmarnock train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Kilmarnock can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £94, while the average price tends to be around £112.
The train journey from Preston to Kilmarnock covers a distance of 235 km and takes approximately 2h 58m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Kilmarnock is 235 km.
The first train from Preston to Kilmarnock leaves at 5:36.
The last train from Preston to Kilmarnock departs at 18:59.
Trains from Preston to Kilmarnock run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Kilmarnock.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Kilmarnock.
To get from Preston to Kilmarnock, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Kilmarnock.
The train station in Preston that goes to Kilmarnock is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Kilmarnock station (KMK).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Kilmarnock is by coach, costing approximately £31.
Booking trains from Preston to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with scenic landscapes particularly noticeable as the train passes through the rolling hills and greenery of the Lake District and southern Scotland.
A day trip from Preston to Kilmarnock is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 58m. Trains run with a frequency of 2 per day, and the distance is 235 km.
For a visit to Kilmarnock, two to three days are generally sufficient to explore its local attractions, enjoy the parks, and experience the town's cultural highlights.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Kilmarnock.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Kilmarnock
Most Preston to Kilmarnock trains use the Preston to Kilmarnock station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock
Which Preston station do trains to Kilmarnock leave from?
Trains from Preston to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Kilmarnock arrive at Kilmarnock. Kilmarnock is from Kilmarnock city centre.
KilmarnockKilmarnock station, Hill Street, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, KA1 2AF
City-centre transport
Getting to Kilmarnock from Kilmarnock city centre
Bus3, 6, 7 · 37m · £2 · every ~23 min
Kilmarnock train station facilities and services
Kilmarnock has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Kilmarnock.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kilmarnock.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kilmarnock. 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 Kilmarnock: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kilmarnock: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kilmarnock: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. Level to platforms 1,2&3 underpass with lifts connecting platform 4. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 6, 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 Kilmarnock
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kilmarnock and Preston
Most popular train connections to Kilmarnock
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