- 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.
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 Kilmarnock
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Kilmarnock run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £26 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:36, the last at 18:59. The fastest train covers the 235 km distance in 2h 50m.
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 235 km |
Average train duration 3h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price £26 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Preston to Kilmarnock trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Preston to Kilmarnock.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Kilmarnock can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £26, while the average price tends to be around £42.
The train journey from Preston to Kilmarnock covers a distance of 235 km and takes approximately 2h 50m. Trains run 6 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 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Kilmarnock.
Why should you book Preston to Kilmarnock trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Scotrail, Transpennine Express, Lumo and more 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 Scotrail, Transpennine Express or Lumo 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, Raileurope or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail, Transpennine Express or Lumo 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.
Train companies: Scotrail, Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Lumo from Preston to Kilmarnock trainsScotrail, Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Lumo trains will get you between Preston and Kilmarnock from £26. 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
2h 50m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£26
Scotrail frequency
2 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
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
3h 7m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£26
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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
3h 11m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£52
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
3h 15m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£37
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Preston and Kilmarnock
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Preston to Kilmarnock.
There is no night train service from Preston to Kilmarnock.
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.
Plan your visit to Kilmarnock
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 Kilmarnock.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Train stations for Preston to Kilmarnock
Check train stations information for Preston and Kilmarnock, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Preston that goes to Kilmarnock is Preston, and it arrives at Kilmarnock.
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
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.
