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Trains from City Thameslink to
Manchester Piccadilly

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City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly by train

A train trip from City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly takes about 3hrs on average, covering roughly 162 miles (261 kilometres). With around 47 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 £34.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Departure Station

City Thameslink

Frequency

47trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 48 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:21 / 22:15

Distance

162miles
(261 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly by Train

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

Planning to travel from City Thameslink 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. 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 2hrs 48 mins. With roughly 47 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 162-mile (261 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of First TransPennine Express, Thameslink, East Midlands Railway, 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 £34.00 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 City Thameslink and Manchester Piccadilly

Curious about your trip from City Thameslink 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 City Thameslink and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The travel time between City Thameslink and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 48 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly is 2hrs 48 mins.

How much does the train from City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly cost?

Train ticket prices from City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly can start from as little as £34.00 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 City Thameslink and Manchester Piccadilly?

The departure and arrival times for trains between City Thameslink and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 47 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:21, and the last train of the day leaves at 22:15.

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

First class tickets on trains between City Thameslink 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 City Thameslink and Manchester Piccadilly?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from City Thameslink 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 City Thameslink 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 City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between City Thameslink & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 47 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly?

First TransPennine Express, Thameslink, East Midlands Railway and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between City Thameslink and Manchester Piccadilly.

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

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

When are City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly on Tuesday 3rd June 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 3rd June
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:21 City Thameslink08:25 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
05:35 City Thameslink08:45 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
3 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
05:51 City Thameslink09:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
3 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
06:26 City Thameslink09:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
06:51 City Thameslink09:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
07:11 City Thameslink10:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
07:31 City Thameslink10:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
07:51 City Thameslink10:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
08:09 City Thameslink11:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
08:31 City Thameslink11:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
08:51 City Thameslink11:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
09:09 City Thameslink12:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
2 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for City Thameslink 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 City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly start from as little as £34.00

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 City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly start from £76.30 one way, or £105.00 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 City Thameslink to Manchester Piccadilly are available for £145.50 one way, or £278.00 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 City Thameslink Station

Welcome to City Thameslink: Gateway to London's Heart

Nestled in the bustling heart of London, City Thameslink station is perfectly positioned for commuters and leisure travelers looking to explore both sides of the River Thames. Situated between Blackfriars and Farringdon, it serves as a convenient junction for Londoners and visitors alike. With city attractions just a stone's throw away, City Thameslink provides essential services and connections tailored for both the seasoned traveler and the day trip adventurer.

Facilities and Amenities at City Thameslink

At City Thameslink, ticket buying facilities are robust, with a ticket office open from 07:15 to 19:45 on weekdays. For those purchasing tickets online, collection is straightforward and can be done through accessible machines at the station. These machines also support Disabled Persons Railcard discounts, ensuring inclusivity for all passengers.

For those requiring assistance, staff are available from 05:00 to 23:30 on weekdays and from 08:00 to 21:00 on Saturdays. While the station itself features step-free access via the Ludgate Hill entrance, note that the Holborn Viaduct entrance requires stair access. Help points are strategically located, ready to provide immediate assistance should it be needed.

Although there's no waiting room, seating is available on both platforms, which are below ground, offering a snug waiting experience. CCTV helps bolster security to enhance passenger safety. While the station has no luggage storage, refreshing facilities, including vending machines and shops, fulfill your needs should hunger strike. Although Wi-Fi isn't currently available, the station remains a hub of connectivity through its varied transport options.

Transport Connections: Seamless Onward Journeys

Whether you plan a brief visit or an extended stay, City Thameslink station supports onward travel with a range of transport connections. Although there's no dedicated rail replacement service detailed, the adjacent bus services outlined in the 'Onward Travel Information Map', ensure you're well-covered. For those looking for a more personalized transport option, taxi services are at hand, perfect for a direct journey to your next destination.

Where to Go: Popular Routes from City Thameslink

City Thameslink is more than a stopping point; it's a launchpad to exciting places. Head north aboard the trains to bustling destinations such as St Albans City and Luton Airport Parkway, ideal for commuters and tourists alike. Meanwhile, journeys southward open doors to regions like Brighton, where the seaside calls.

For a more metropolitan flavor, why not explore connections to London Bridge or St Pancras International? Each offers a unique taste of London life, enhancing your travels with rich historical and modern attractions.

Making the Most of City Thameslink

Whatever your journey entails, City Thameslink station promises a dynamic and adaptable travel experience. Ticket purchase and collection processes are streamlined and inclusive - easing your journeys through the heart of London and beyond. Essential amenities combine with a solid support system for accessible travel, providing a safe and welcoming setting. Comprehensive transport links ensure that whether you're heading for a nearby stop or embarking on a cross-country trip, City Thameslink sets the stage for a pleasant travel adventure. Start your journey here, and let the delights of the UK unfold on the tracks ahead.

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 City Thameslink