- Must visit
Ashmolean Museum
Oxford’s leading museum of art and archaeology, with Egyptian mummies, classical sculpture and paintings in an elegant university setting.
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Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Preston to Oxford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Oxford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £28 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, while a train costs an average of £33.
Distance: 245 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£33 Average Price | £28 Average Price Cheapest | £60 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 33m Average total duration 5h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Oxford is a coach with an average price of £28.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Oxford:
A coach is £5 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Oxford costing on average £33.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Oxford is by train with an average journey time of 3h 15m.
Other travel options to Oxford take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Oxford including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 6m faster (3h 15m by train vs 3h 21m by car) and roughly £27 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£33 vs £60). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Oxford 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.
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Why should you book Preston to Oxford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Oxford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Oxford.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Oxford.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Oxford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Oxford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Oxford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Oxford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Oxford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £26 but you can travel from only £25 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:20, the last at 21:09. The fastest train covers the 245 km distance in 3h 23m.
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 £25
Distance 245 km |
Average train duration 3h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price £26 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 23m |
First train 5:20 |
Last train 21:09 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 £25
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Oxford trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Oxford from £25. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
3h 53m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£26
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
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 23m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£38
Avanti West Coast frequency
11 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 52m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£79
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
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Oxford trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Oxford from £25. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
3h 53m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£26
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
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 23m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£38
Avanti West Coast frequency
11 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 52m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£79
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
Complete guide to Oxford
Things to do in Oxford
Discover the best of Oxford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oxford trip today.
- Must visit
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
A fascinating natural history museum known for dinosaur skeletons, minerals and a dramatic neo-Gothic hall. Great for families and curious adults alike.
- Must visit
Pitt Rivers Museum
A compact museum exploring world cultures through objects from many regions. Thoughtful displays make it a rewarding stop beside the natural history museum.
- Must visit
High Street
Oxford’s most famous street, lined with college buildings, churches and historic facades. Ideal for a first walk through the city’s academic heart.
- Must visit
Christ Church Meadow
A broad green beside the college, river and cathedral precincts. Popular for peaceful walks, picnics and classic views of Oxford’s historic skyline.
- Must visit
Radcliffe Square
A historic square framed by major university buildings and the Radcliffe Camera. It is one of the city’s most photogenic and recognisable urban spaces.
Oxford Sausage
Oxford sausages are seasoned pork sausages linked to the city since the 18th century, known for savoury herbs and a coarse texture.
- Vegetarian
Banbury Cake
Banbury cakes are small oval pastries from nearby Banbury, filled with spiced currants and dried fruit; a long-standing Oxfordshire teatime treat.
Oxford Sauce
Oxford sauce is a traditional dark, spicy table sauce made with malt vinegar, anchovies and spices, historically served with meats and game.
The Gardiners Arms
Busy Jericho pub known for Thai food and drinks, with a casual local atmosphere and one of Oxford’s most established dining pubs.
The Perch
Historic riverside pub serving classic British dishes, local ales and seasonal plates in a traditional, atmospheric setting.
The Chop House
Well-known covered market restaurant focused on British produce, steaks and cocktails in a lively, polished brasserie setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Oxford is pricier than many UK cities, with high hotel rates and dining costs, though buses and casual eats are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional, such as small change.
Oxford Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Oxford Railway Station -> Oxford City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel buses; buying in the Oxford Bus app can also be convenient.
- For unlimited travel across participating operators in Oxford, the SmartZone Adult 1 Day ticket costs £5.00.
FAQs: Preston to Oxford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Oxford 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 Oxford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Oxford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £26, while the average price tends to be around £33.
The train journey from Preston to Oxford covers a distance of 245 km and takes approximately 3h 23m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Oxford is 245 km.
The first train from Preston to Oxford leaves at 5:20.
The last train from Preston to Oxford departs at 21:09.
Trains from Preston to Oxford run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Oxford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Oxford.
To get from Preston to Oxford, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Oxford.
The train station in Preston that goes to Oxford is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Oxford station (OXF).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Oxford is by coach, costing approximately £25.
Booking trains from Preston to Oxford 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 Oxford offers varied scenery, including views of the picturesque English countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, providing a pleasant visual experience for travellers.
A day trip from Preston to Oxford is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 23m. However, there are 4 train journeys available per day. The distance is 245 km.
In Oxford, you can visit the University of Oxford to explore its historic colleges and libraries. Tour the Ashmolean Museum to discover an extensive collection of art and archaeology. Enjoy the diverse plant collections at the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest in the UK. Explore the Covered Market to browse local shops and eateries. Climb the Carfax Tower for panoramic views of the city. Don't miss the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and Christ Church College for their stunning architecture and historical significance.
To fully experience Oxford, including its historic university, museums, and picturesque streets, a 2 to 3-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Oxford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Oxford
Most Preston to Oxford trains use the Preston to Oxford station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Oxford 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 Oxford
Which Preston station do trains to Oxford leave from?
Trains from Preston to Oxford 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 Oxford station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Oxford arrive at Oxford. Oxford is 1 km from Oxford city centre.
OxfordOxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Oxford from Oxford city centre
BusS1, Ns1 · 6m · £0.90 · every ~12 min
5, 3, 3A, 400, N3, N400 · 9m · £2 · every ~66 min
X1, X15, 600 · 9m · £2 · every ~14 min
X20, 120 · 10m · every ~10 min
Oxford train station facilities and services
Oxford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Oxford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford. ATMs are available at Oxford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oxford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oxford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oxford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and an overbridge to access platform 4. Safety warning - Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please request staff assistance or call our free help line for, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Situated by the ticket office, 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 Oxford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Oxford and Preston
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