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Trains from Althorne (Essex) to
Preston (Lancs)

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Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) by train

A train trip from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) takes about 4hrs 43 mins on average, covering roughly 205 miles (330 kilometres). With around 17 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £49.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

Althorne (Essex)

Frequency

17trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 53 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:34 / 00:05

Distance

205miles
(330 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£49.50

Travelling from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) by Train

Hop on a Train from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 4hrs 43 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Preston (Lancs)), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 53 mins. With roughly 17 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 205-mile (330 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Abellio Greater Anglia, Elizabeth Line, Avanti West Coast, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £49.50 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Preston (Lancs)!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs)

Curious about your trip from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs)? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The travel time between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 43 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 53 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) is 3hrs 53 mins.

How much does the train from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) cost?

Train ticket prices from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) can start from as little as £49.50 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 17 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:34, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:05.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs)?

First class tickets on trains between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs) typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs)?

Amenities on trains between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs) can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs). On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Preston (Lancs), and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs)?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Althorne (Essex) & Preston (Lancs). However, there are 17 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs)?

Abellio Greater Anglia, Elizabeth Line and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs).

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs)?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Althorne (Essex) and Preston (Lancs), but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) on Tuesday 1st July 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Tuesday 1st July
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:34 Althorne (Essex)09:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
06:17 Althorne (Essex)10:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 22 mins Get Tickets
07:46 Althorne (Essex)11:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesStratford (London)
Tottenham Court Road (Elizabeth Line)
London Euston
3 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
08:25 Althorne (Essex)12:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
09:04 Althorne (Essex)13:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
10:22 Althorne (Essex)14:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
11:02 Althorne (Essex)15:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
12:22 Althorne (Essex)16:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
13:02 Althorne (Essex)17:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
14:22 Althorne (Essex)18:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
15:02 Althorne (Essex)19:38 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
15:42 Althorne (Essex)20:10 Preston (Lancs)3 changesWickford
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
4 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) start from as little as £49.50

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) start from £94.90 one way, or £135.70 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Althorne (Essex) to Preston (Lancs) are available for £220.10 one way, or £440.20 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Althorne (Essex) Station

Discover Althorne (Essex) Train Station

Situated in the picturesque county of Essex, Althorne station offers a unique blend of charm and convenience for travelers. Despite its modest size, Althorne is an essential stop for those journeying to and from the village of Althorne and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring the Essex coast, this station provides reliable connectivity to many popular destinations.

Facilities at Althorne (Essex) Station

While Althorne (Essex) station might not boast the extensive amenities found at larger stations, it offers essential facilities to ensure a seamless travel experience. It features accessible ticket machines, which allow passengers to collect pre-purchased tickets efficiently. The station is equipped with an induction loop, ensuring clear communication for all passengers.

Importantly, Althorne station maintains step-free access across the platform, categorized as a level A station for accessibility. While there are no refreshment or shopping facilities, the provision of seating areas ensures travelers can wait comfortably for their trains. Additionally, although there's no luggage storage, the presence of CCTV ensures a secure environment.

Travel Connections at Althorne

Getting to and from Althorne (Essex) is straightforward with several transport connections available nearby. For those requiring bus services, the closest stops are just a short three-minute walk at the junction of Fambridge Road. In case of any train service interruptions, a rail replacement service conveniently picks up and drops off on the Fords of Athorne forecourt.

Popular Routes from Althorne (Essex)

For those seeking adventure or a simple day trip, Althorne (Essex) station offers several popular train routes. You can opt for a leisurely ride to London Liverpool Street, or perhaps head towards the coastal town of Southend Victoria for a day at the seaside. Other favorites include traveling to the bustling area of Stratford or the vibrant town of Wickford. For exact train times and fares, it’s easy to check online and plan your journey.

Catch a train from Althorne (Essex) to one of these vibrant destinations:

Plan Your Trip

Whether you're a seasoned commuter or a weekend traveler, Althorne (Essex) station meets all basic needs without any fuss, making it a gateway to both everyday errands and spontaneous adventures. So why wait? Start planning your next journey with us today, and purchase your tickets with ease online or at the station's ticket machine. Happy travels!

Everything you need to know about Preston (Lancs) Station

Welcome to Preston (Lancs) Train Station

Whether you're setting off for a scenic trip through the UK, commuting for work, or heading to visit friends and family, Preston (Lancs) train station acts as a gateway to your journey. Situated in the vibrant heart of Lancashire, Preston station offers a comprehensive range of facilities that cater to your travel needs, making it a crucial hub for both local and long-distance travel.

The station is efficiently managed by Avanti West Coast and ensures a seamless experience for travelers, thanks to its extensive amenities and services that cater to millions of passengers each year. From ticketing to refreshments, everything is designed to make your travel as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Station Facilities & Amenities

Preston (Lancs) train station is well-equipped to handle the demands of modern travel. The ticket office is open from early morning until late at night, and with ticket machines available, it's convenient to purchase and collect your tickets, including those bought online. While smartcards aren't issued at the station, helpful staff are always available to assist you at help points, information points, and the ticket office itself.

Accessibility is a key strength of the station, with step-free access throughout, ramps for train access, and accessible ticket machines. Waiting rooms with automatic doors are located on platforms 3 and 4. Although there's no first-class lounge, seating and accessible toilets are available, providing a comfortable environment for everyone. CCTV coverage enhances the safety and security of the station premises.

For those needing to stay connected, the station provides accessible pay phones, although public Wi-Fi isn't available. Should you wish to explore local amenities or grab a quick refreshment, a selection of shops and eateries are conveniently located within the station.

Onward Travel Options

The station is a well-connected transport node that offers a variety of onward travel options. Taxis are readily accessible outside the station entrance, and a freephone service is available within the ticket office area to book them. Preston's local bus services also provide an efficient means of travel within and around the city, albeit with no Metro services available.

Should your journey require car hire, the nearest Eurocar branch is located approximately half a mile from the station. For the environmentally conscious or recreation-minded, a cycle hire is available from Leisure Lakes Bikes, offering a convenient bike shop adjacent to Platform 7. Additionally, the station allows easy pick-up and drop-off for Rail Replacement Services at the short-stay car park on Butler Street.

Popular Destinations from Preston

Preston station serves as a gateway to a plethora of bustling cities and tranquil towns across the UK. With direct routes to major cities like London Euston and Manchester Piccadilly, the station provides fast and frequent services that cater to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're heading off to the seaside charm of Blackpool North or the cultural richness of Edinburgh, you'll find the station's connections both comprehensive and convenient.

Don't forget, journeys to closer destinations like Liverpool Lime Street or Manchester Airport can be a breeze with excellent train services. Explore more rural settings such as Blackburn or plan your next adventure to vibrant Glasgow Central. Whatever your destination, Preston's connectivity ensures you're never too far from your next adventure.

Your Ticket to Exploring

Whether you're a seasoned commuter or an enthusiastic explorer, Preston (Lancs) train station opens the door to an exciting world of travel opportunities. It stands as a testament to Lancashire's vibrant rail history while seamlessly integrating modern conveniences for today's traveler.

As each train departs, the promise of discovering new places or reconnecting with loved ones begins. Make Preston (Lancs) your starting point for countless journeys, and don't hesitate to snag your travel tickets to make the most of your trip. With a wealth of connections and a rich tapestry of destinations at your disposal, there's no better time than now to explore the wonders that lie beyond Preston's tracks.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Althorne (Essex)