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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Watford
Showing times and prices for 10 Nov
Cheapest price
£54
Average price
£73
Fastest journey
2 h 42 m
Average duration
2 h 55 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
282 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Watford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Watford will cost around £73 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £54.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Preston for Watford every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 282 km distance in an average of 2 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 42 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 19 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
04:332h42
Preston07:15Watford
£541One-way
0 changes
12:192h44
Preston15:03Watford
£701One-way
0 changes
10:183h19
Preston13:37Watford
£961One-way
0 changes
04:332h42
Preston07:15Watford
£541One-way
0 changes
12:192h44
Preston15:03Watford
£701One-way
0 changes
10:183h19
Preston13:37Watford
£961One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Preston to Watford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Watford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £35, and a flight costs an average of £57.
Distance: 282 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£75 Average Price | £35 Average Price Cheapest | £151 Average Price |
3h 29m Average total duration 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 45m Average total duration 7h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 2m Average total duration Fastest 1h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Preston to Watford train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Watford trains for today, Sunday 9 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 05:28
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:17 Preston | 3h29 | 12:46 Watford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:18 Preston | 3h30 | 13:48 Watford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:18 Preston | 3h20 | 14:38 Watford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:17 Preston | 3h32 | 20:49 Watford | 0 changesdirect | |
| Monday 10 November | |||||
| 04:33 Preston | 2h42 | 07:15 Watford | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Watford 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.
Mon
10 Nov
10 Nov
Tue
11 Nov
11 Nov
Wed
12 Nov
12 Nov
Thu
13 Nov
13 Nov
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16 Nov
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Watford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Watford run on average 16 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £46 but you can travel from only £35 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:09, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 282 km distance in 2h 42m.
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 £35
Distance 282 km |
Average train duration 2h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £46 |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 04:09 |
Last train 21:45 |
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 £35
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Watford trainsAvanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Watford from £35. 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 Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
£46
Avanti West Coast frequency
15 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 Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
£84
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
FAQs: Preston to Watford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Watford 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 Watford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
To fully explore Watford's attractions, including Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter, Cassiobury Park, and Watford Palace Theatre, a two to three-day visit is recommended.
Booking trains from Preston to Watford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train distance from Preston to Watford is 282 km.
The train journey from Preston to Watford covers a distance of 282 km and takes approximately 2h 42m. Trains run 16 per day.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Watford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £46, while the average price tends to be around £75.
In Watford, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as attending performances at the Watford Palace Theatre or exploring the shops and dining options at Intu Watford. For entertainment, try Topgolf Watford, or attend community arts events at The Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre. Nature enthusiasts can visit the Rickmansworth Aquadrome for walking and cycling, or explore Cassiobury Park and its nature reserve. Don't miss the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London for a behind-the-scenes look at the Harry Potter films. Additionally, Watford Museum offers insights into the town's history, while Cheslyn House and Gardens provide a tranquil escape. For luxury, The Grove features beautiful gardens, a golf course, and spa facilities.
The first train from Preston to Watford leaves at 4:09.
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Watford is by coach, costing approximately £35.
Yes, there is a direct train between Preston and Watford. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper.
To get from Preston to Watford, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
The train station in Preston that goes to Watford is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Watford Junction (WFJ).
The last train from Preston to Watford departs at 21:45.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Watford.
Trains from Preston to Watford run approximately 16 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Watford.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Watford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Watford
Preston
Watford
The major train station for departures in Preston is Preston. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston for your trip from Preston to Watford.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24 hours, located adjacent to the station with access from Butler Street.
Dining
- Rise
- The Olive Tree Brasserie
- Turtle Bay
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Preston - South
- Delta Hotels Preston
- Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for long-distance services
- Hall 2: platforms 4-6 for regional and local services
Public transport options for Preston
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Northern, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express services
The major train station for arrivals in Watford is Bushey. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bushey for your journey to Watford from Preston.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:45 - 21:00 Saturday 08:15 - 15:15 Sunday 09:15 - 16:30
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: Bushey Station
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: behind the Ticket Office
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Bushey
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:00 Saturday 10:30 - 12:30
Distance to city center
3 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Local shops nearby
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Accessibility category B2. Long sloping ramp from station entrance to booking hall. Level access from booking hall to platforms.
- Accessible public telephones: Outside booking office. Sloped passage from entrance to booking hall.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Carpenders Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop C in Prestwick Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Prestwick Road for southbound services to Euston
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:30 - 10:00 Saturday 09:30 - 12:15
Shopping
- Type of shops available: High Street shops located nearby
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only
- Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Watford High Street
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Lower High Street for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Lower High Street for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
- Metro: Watford London Underground station (Metropolitan line) is approximately 34 minutes' walk away
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:30 - 23:00 Saturday 05:30 - 23:00 Sunday 06:30 - 22:30 Booking Office and Travel Centre
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible on platform 6
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 6. The toilet facilities are available: Monday - Sunday 04:00-23:00. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from station staff upon request. The National key toilet facilities are available: Monday - Saturday 04:00-14:00 and Sunday 06:00-14:00.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Station forecourt
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Watford Junction
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from bay 1 of the bus station at the side of the railway station.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Watford North
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Towards Watford - Public Service bus stop A/Rail Replacement bus stop on Bushey Mill Lane between level crossing and junction of Southfield Avenue. Towards St Albans - Public Service bus stop B/Rail Replacement bus stop on Bushey Mill Lane between level crossing and opposite Sandown Road junction.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Watford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Watford and Preston
Most popular train connections to Watford
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