A train trip from Cardiff Central to Preston (Lancs) takes about 4hrs 39 mins on average, covering roughly 159 miles (255 kilometres). With around 26 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 £27.40, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Preston (Lancs) |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Central |
Frequency | 26trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 57 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:32 / 23:54 |
Distance | 159miles (255 km) |
7 Routes | Via Crewe Via Bristol Parkway & Birmingham New Street Via Manchester Piccadilly Via Chester & Warrington Bank Quay Via Birmingham New Street Via Crewe & Manchester Piccadilly Via Newport (South Wales) & Crewe |
6 Train Operators | Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, GWR, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail |
Prices | from£27.40 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Preston (Lancs) – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Central 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 39 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 57 mins. With roughly 26 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 159-mile (255 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, GWR, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, 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 £27.40 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)!
The travel time between Cardiff Central and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 39 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 57 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Preston (Lancs) is 3hrs 57 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Preston (Lancs) can start from as little as £27.40 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 26 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:32, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:54.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Preston (Lancs) typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Preston (Lancs) can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Central 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.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Central & Preston (Lancs). However, there are 26 possible journeys which require a change.
Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, GWR, First TransPennine Express and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Preston (Lancs).
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Preston (Lancs), but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Tuesday 1st July | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 05:49 Cardiff Central | 09:51 Preston (Lancs) | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 2 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 05:54 Cardiff Central | 09:51 Preston (Lancs) | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Birmingham New Street | 3 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 06:46 Cardiff Central | 11:25 Preston (Lancs) | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 39 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:19 Cardiff Central | 11:39 Preston (Lancs) | 2 changes | Chester Warrington Bank Quay | 4 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:53 Cardiff Central | 11:51 Preston (Lancs) | 1 change | Crewe | 3 hrs 58 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:53 Cardiff Central | 12:51 Preston (Lancs) | 1 change | Crewe | 3 hrs 58 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:53 Cardiff Central | 13:51 Preston (Lancs) | 1 change | Crewe | 3 hrs 58 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:53 Cardiff Central | 15:25 Preston (Lancs) | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 32 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:23 Cardiff Central | 15:39 Preston (Lancs) | 2 changes | Chester Warrington Bank Quay | 4 hrs 16 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:53 Cardiff Central | 15:51 Preston (Lancs) | 1 change | Crewe | 3 hrs 58 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:53 Cardiff Central | 16:50 Preston (Lancs) | 1 change | Crewe | 3 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:23 Cardiff Central | 17:39 Preston (Lancs) | 2 changes | Chester Warrington Bank Quay | 4 hrs 16 mins | Get Tickets | |
Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.
Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.
The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.
This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!
Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.
Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.