- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Swanley to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £23, and a flight costs an average of £275.
Distance: 328 km
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£92 Average Price | £275 Average Price | £23 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 17m Average total duration 2h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 10m Average total duration 6h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
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.
Trains from Swanley to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £92 but you can travel from only £23 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 20:11. The fastest train covers the 328 km distance in 3h 34m.
Distance 328 km |
Average train duration 2h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price £92 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 34m |
First train 5:33 |
Last train 20:11 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Swanley to Preston 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, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Swanley to Preston trains use the Swanley to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Swanley and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Swanley has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Swanley.
ATMs are available at Swanley.
Available at Swanley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Swanley: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Swanley.
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need