Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) train with Northern Rail

Fri 18 Sept
+ Add return
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE)

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept

Cheapest price on 18 Sept

£25

Average ticket price on 18 Sept

£39

Fastest journey on 18 Sept

1 h 3 m

Average journey duration on 18 Sept

1 h 27 m

Trains on 18 Sept

5

Distance

113 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) 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 Preston station (PRE) will cost around £39 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £25.

Fast trains

On Fri 18 Sept, we found 5 trains from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE), including 5 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 113 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 3 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 2 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.

  • CrossCountry
    18:032h02
    Stafford station (STA)
    20:05Preston station (PRE)
    £251One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    19:371h03
    Stafford station (STA)
    20:40Preston station (PRE)
    £421One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    18:502h02
    Stafford station (STA)
    20:52Preston station (PRE)
    £421One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    16:471h04
    Stafford station (STA)
    17:51Preston station (PRE)
    £421One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West Coast
    10:471h03
    Stafford station (STA)
    11:50Preston station (PRE)
    £421One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) 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 1h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, while a train costs an average of £45.

Distance: 113 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Driving

£45

Average Price

£28

Average Price

Cheapest

£21

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 53m

Average total duration

4h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 27m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) is a coach with an average price of £28.

This is compared to other travel options from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE):

A coach is £16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) costing on average £45.

The fastest way to travel from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) is by train with an average journey time of 1h 14m.

Other travel options to Preston station (PRE) take longer:

Coach takes on average 4h 23m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Stafford station (STA) and Preston station (PRE) including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 13m sooner (1h 14m by train vs 1h 27m by car). Tickets start at around £45 compared to roughly £21 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.

Direct services run with Avanti West Coast.

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

Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) train times

The table below shows live departures for Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
CrossCountryG00777+Avanti West CoastW34177+Transpennine ExpressW84651
On time
6:33 Stafford station (STA)
3h06
9:39 Preston station (PRE)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW34213
On time
6:48 Stafford station (STA)
1h03
7:51 Preston station (PRE)
0 changesdirect
CrossCountryG66607+Avanti West CoastW34144+East Midlands RailwayC04439
On time
7:03 Stafford station (STA)
2h48
9:51 Preston station (PRE)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW34046
On time
7:47 Stafford station (STA)
1h03
8:50 Preston station (PRE)
0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW34204 · W34254+Transpennine ExpressW84656
On time
7:50 Stafford station (STA)
2h49
10:39 Preston station (PRE)
2 changes
CrossCountryG00781+Avanti West CoastC01369+East Midlands RailwayC04444
On time
8:00 Stafford station (STA)
2h50
10:50 Preston station (PRE)
2 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) 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.

Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept

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

Northern Rail as well as CrossCountry or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).

Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).
  • 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).

Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) run on average 4 times per day, taking around 1h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £42 but you can travel from only £17 by coach.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:47, the last at 19:50. The fastest train covers the 113 km distance in 1h 0m.

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 £17
Distance
113 km
Average train duration
1h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
£42
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 0m
First train
9:47
Last train
19:50
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 £17

Train companies: Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) trainsNorthern Rail, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Stafford station (STA) and Preston station (PRE) from £17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 49m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£43
Northern Rail frequency
1 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

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
1h 32m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£43
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
1h 0m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£42
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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

FAQs: Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £42, while the average price tends to be around £45.
The train journey from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) covers a distance of 113 km and takes approximately 1h 0m. Trains run 4 per day.
The first train from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) leaves at 9:47.
The train distance from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) is 113 km.
The last train from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) departs at 19:50.
Trains from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).
Yes, there is a direct train between Stafford station (STA) and Preston station (PRE). The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
To get from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE), you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) is by coach, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Stafford to Preston offers some scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the West Midlands and the rolling hills of the North West, providing glimpses of charming countryside and historic towns along the route.
Yes, a day trip from Stafford to Preston is feasible, as the journey takes 1h 0m and trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 113 km.
Yes, you can take the train from Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE).

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Stafford station (STA) and Preston station (PRE)

Most Stafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) trains use the Stafford to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Stafford station (STA) and Preston station (PRE) 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 Preston
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.

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

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

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomStafford station (STA) to Preston station (PRE) train

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone