Stafford station (STA) to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Mon 02 Nov
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CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
Cheapest price on 02 Nov
£13
Average ticket price on 02 Nov
£22
Fastest journey on 02 Nov
54 m
Average journey duration on 02 Nov
56 m
Trains on 02 Nov
6
Distance
76 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester will cost around £22 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.

Fast trains

On Mon 02 Nov, we found 6 trains from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester, including 5 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 54 m .

The slowest trains will take 56 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.

  • CrossCountryG00887
    0 changes
  • CrossCountryG00879
    0 changes
  • CrossCountryG00876
    0 changes
  • CrossCountryG00883
    0 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW33963
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £15 if you book in advance.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:11, the last at 17:33. The fastest train covers the 76 km distance in 54m.

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
76 km
Average train duration
1h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
£15
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
54m
First train
6:11
Last train
17:33
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 Stafford station (STA) to Manchester trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester.

The cost of a train ticket from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £15, while the average price tends to be around £24.
The train journey from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester covers a distance of 76 km and takes approximately 54m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester is 76 km.
The first train from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester leaves at 6:11.
The last train from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester departs at 17:33.
Trains from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester run approximately 7 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Stafford station (STA) and Manchester. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast.

Live departures

Stafford station (STA) to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Stafford station (STA) to Manchester trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
CrossCountryG00784
On time
9:32 Stafford station (STA)
1h05
10:37 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW33357 · W33103
On time
9:47 Stafford station (STA)
1h09
10:56 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 change
Avanti West CoastW33266+Northern RailC32507
On time
10:25 Stafford station (STA)
1h20
11:45 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 change
West Midlands TrainsW70447+Avanti West CoastW33098
On time
10:43 Stafford station (STA)
1h22
12:05 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 change
CrossCountryG00885
On time
17:33 Stafford station (STA)
0h56
18:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW33280
On time
17:50 Stafford station (STA)
0h54
18:44 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
CrossCountryG00890
On time
18:33 Stafford station (STA)
0h56
19:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW33302
On time
18:50 Stafford station (STA)
0h54
19:44 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
CrossCountryG00897
On time
19:33 Stafford station (STA)
0h56
20:29 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW33187
On time
19:50 Stafford station (STA)
0h54
20:44 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Stafford station (STA) to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester.

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, Northern Rail or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester.
  • 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester.

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Stafford station (STA) and Manchester from £15. 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
55m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£16
CrossCountry frequency
4 a day
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
54m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£31
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

Northern Rail

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
1h 13m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£15
Northern Rail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
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 dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
1h 2m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£32
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
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 cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Stafford station (STA) and Manchester

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 Stafford station (STA) to Manchester.
There is no night train service from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester.

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Major science and industry museum on historic railway land, with galleries on textiles, transport and Manchester’s role in modern innovation.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

Large university museum with natural history, archaeology and cultural collections, plus changing exhibitions in a prominent Oxford Road building.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Leading art museum with British and European paintings, design, costume and craft collections in a landmark city-centre building.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK city. Hotels can be pricey at peak times, but dining, pubs and local transport are usually cheaper than London.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is good and not already added. Round up taxi fares; cafés usually do not require tips.

Plan your visit to Manchester

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 Manchester.

The train journey from Stafford to Manchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque Cheshire countryside and some charming small towns, providing travellers with a pleasant visual experience.

FAQs: Stafford station (STA) to Manchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester 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 Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Booking trains from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester 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 Stafford station (STA) to Manchester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Stafford station (STA) and Manchester

Most Stafford station (STA) to Manchester trains use the Stafford to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Stafford station (STA) and Manchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Stafford
Arrival train stations in Manchester
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AAShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.

Stafford train station facilities and services

Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Stafford.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Stafford.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Stafford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 Stafford: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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 Stafford station (STA)

More options for your journey from Stafford station (STA) to Manchester

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Manchester and Stafford station (STA)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to Manchester Stafford station (STA) to Manchester train

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