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Trains from Bedford to
Manchester Piccadilly

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Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly by train

A train trip from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly takes about 3hrs 39 mins on average, covering roughly 118 miles (190 kilometres). With around 41 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 £21.20, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Departure Station

Bedford

Frequency

41trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 6 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:13 / 00:53

Distance

118miles
(190 km)

5 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£21.20

Travelling from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly by Train

Hop on a Train from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly 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 3hrs 39 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Manchester Piccadilly), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 6 mins. With roughly 41 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 118-mile (190 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Thameslink, Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, 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 £21.20 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 Manchester Piccadilly!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly

Curious about your trip from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly? 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 Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The travel time between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 39 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 6 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly is 3hrs 6 mins.

How much does the train from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly cost?

Train ticket prices from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly can start from as little as £21.20 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 Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 41 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:13, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:53.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly?

First class tickets on trains between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly?

Amenities on trains between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Piccadilly, 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 Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bedford & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 41 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly?

Thameslink, Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Bedford and Manchester Piccadilly, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly on Monday 5th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 5th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:26 Bedford09:32 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesWellingborough
Sheffield
3 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
07:11 Bedford10:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLeicester
Nuneaton
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
08:08 Bedford11:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesBletchley
Milton Keynes Central
3 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
09:01 Bedford12:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesKettering
Nottingham
3 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
09:17 Bedford13:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesBletchley
Milton Keynes Central
3 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
09:56 Bedford13:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesKettering
Nottingham
3 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
10:47 Bedford14:10 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesBletchley
Milton Keynes Central
3 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
10:56 Bedford14:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesKettering
Nottingham
3 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
11:47 Bedford15:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesBletchley
Milton Keynes Central
3 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
11:56 Bedford15:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesKettering
Nottingham
3 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
12:47 Bedford16:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesBletchley
Milton Keynes Central
3 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
12:56 Bedford16:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesKettering
Nottingham
3 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly start from as little as £21.20

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 Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly start from £75.10 one way, or £86.30 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 Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly are available for £99.00 one way, or £141.50 return

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

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly is £115.10 & the average saving on this route is £48.28!

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 Bedford Station

Exploring Bedford Station

Welcome to Bedford Railway Station, a bustling hub located in the historic town of Bedfordshire. Known for its connections to major destinations and its prominent role in local transport, Bedford Station provides a vital link for daily commuters and travelers exploring the UK. If you’re planning a journey from Bedford, you’re in the right place to gather all the necessary information for a smooth start to your trip.

Station Facilities and Services

At Bedford Station, you'll find a range of facilities designed to make your travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible. The ticket office is open every day, with hours extending from early morning to late evening, ensuring you can pick up your tickets easily. Automated ticket machines are available, providing the option to collect tickets purchased online.

The station is well-equipped to support travelers with accessibility needs. Step-free access is provided across all platforms, and accessible ticket machines accommodate those with the Disabled Persons Railcard. Though there’s no designated waiting room, the seating area ensures comfort while you wait for your train. For added convenience, an induction loop is available for those who require it.

Onward Travel Options

Once you've reached Bedford, continuing your journey is straightforward with a variety of transport links. A taxi rank is conveniently located at the front of the station, allowing for easy and quick access to local areas. Looking to plan your journey by bus? There’s an onward travel information map to help with your plans. Should there be service disruptions, detailed information on rail replacement bus services is available to ensure you're never caught off guard.

Popular Travel Routes

Whether you're commuting for work or planning a leisure trip, Bedford Station offers seamless connections to numerous destinations. Popular routes include journeys to bustling London destinations such as St Pancras International, London Bridge, and London Blackfriars. Other convenient routes include travel to nearby towns like Luton, Flitwick, and Wellingborough. For those flying out, connections like Luton Airport Parkway are perfect for catching your next flight.

For a bit further afield, routes to Brighton and Nottingham are also available, offering an abundance of options no matter your destination.

Conclusion

Bedford Station offers a comprehensive travel experience for everyone, from the daily commuter to the adventurer seeking new towns to explore. With a variety of amenities and connections, it is well-suited to accommodate all travelers. Be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time, and enjoy your journey from this wonderfully connected station. Happy travels!

Everything you need to know about Manchester Piccadilly Station

Exploring Manchester Piccadilly Train Station

Manchester Piccadilly is an iconic travel hub, bustling with energy and packed with features to smooth your journey. Serving millions of passengers each year, it stands as a crucial entry and exit point for both the city of Manchester and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a daily commuter or a tourist navigating the UK rail system, understanding the facilities and services at Manchester Piccadilly can enhance your travel experience significantly.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Manchester Piccadilly expertly caters to passenger needs with a variety of facilities. The ticket office operates diligently from as early as 4:30 am to 10:30 pm through the week, ensuring you can grab a ticket for those early morning travels. For those tech-savvy commuters, ticket machines are readily available and accessible, allowing smooth online ticket collection. The station is well-equipped for accessibility; offering step-free access, ramps, and tactile warning strips for the visually impaired make it a user-friendly place for all travelers.

The station boasts free public Wi-Fi, ATM machines, and a plethora of shops and dining options. Coffee lovers will appreciate the numerous kiosks, while those in need of essentials can visit the mini supermarkets and pharmacies located within the station. The station even went the extra mile to ensure comfort by providing lounges, including a 1st Class Lounge and an Assisted Travel Lounge, making it an amenable waiting experience.

Transport Links and Connectivity

Getting to and from Manchester Piccadilly is a breeze with its robust transport links. Metrolink trams connect you to key destinations like Bury, Rochdale, and Manchester Airport, among others. For those preferring buses, a network of frequent local services are operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach'. There's also a free bus service that runs every ten minutes around the city center—a convenient option for quick city hops.

The taxi rank located at the Fairfield Street exit offers service between 2 am to 5 am, giving you round-the-clock availability. If you're looking to explore the city on two wheels, Brompton bicycles are available for hire with two flexible tariffs. Additionally, if you're embarking on a flight, Manchester International Airport is just 9-10 miles away with several direct train services throughout the day. Car hire agents are also a short walk from the station, providing flexibility in travel.

Popular Destinations from Manchester Piccadilly

If you have a penchant for exploring, Manchester Piccadilly serves as the starting point for many fascinating journeys. The station offers direct links to major destinations such as London Euston, Liverpool Lime Street, and Glasgow Central. Local routes include convenient trips to nearby spots like Stockport and Manchester Airport, ensuring you're never far from a new adventure.

Your Gateway to Adventure

Whether your travels stem from business, leisure, or curiosity, Manchester Piccadilly is more than just a train station—it's a gateway to new experiences and connections. Leveraging its exceptional facilities and detailed information will set you up for a successful journey, unlocking the vast and vibrant landscapes of the UK. Don't just arrive; embark on your journey with enthusiasm and ease from Manchester Piccadilly, where the rhythm of the railways meets the heartbeat of the city.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bedford