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Trains from Craven Arms to
Preston (Lancs)

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Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) by train

A train trip from Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) takes about 3hrs 9 mins on average, covering roughly 91 miles (146 kilometres). With around 19 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 £12.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

Craven Arms

Frequency

19trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:20 / 23:50

Distance

91miles
(146 km)

5 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£12.50

Travelling from Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) by Train

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

Planning to travel from Craven Arms 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 3hrs 9 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 2hrs. With roughly 19 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 91-mile (146 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, 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 £12.50 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 Craven Arms and Preston (Lancs)

Curious about your trip from Craven Arms 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 Craven Arms and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The travel time between Craven Arms and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 9 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) is 2hrs.

How much does the train from Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) cost?

Train ticket prices from Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) can start from as little as £12.50 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 Craven Arms and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Craven Arms and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 19 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:20, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:50.

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

First class tickets on trains between Craven Arms 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 Craven Arms and Preston (Lancs)?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Craven Arms 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 Craven Arms 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 Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs)?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Craven Arms & Preston (Lancs). However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs)?

First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Craven Arms and Preston (Lancs).

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Craven Arms and Preston (Lancs)?

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

When are Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Craven Arms 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
06:19 Craven Arms08:50 Preston (Lancs)1 changeCrewe
2 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
07:25 Craven Arms09:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeCrewe
2 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
08:25 Craven Arms11:25 Preston (Lancs)1 changeManchester Piccadilly
3 hrs Get Tickets
08:56 Craven Arms11:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesChester
Warrington Bank Quay
2 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
09:29 Craven Arms11:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeCrewe
2 hrs 22 mins Get Tickets
09:35 Craven Arms12:51 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLudlow
Crewe
3 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
11:27 Craven Arms13:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeCrewe
2 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
13:28 Craven Arms15:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeCrewe
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
13:40 Craven Arms16:50 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLudlow
Crewe
3 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
14:56 Craven Arms17:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesChester
Warrington Bank Quay
2 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
15:27 Craven Arms17:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeCrewe
2 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
15:37 Craven Arms18:51 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLudlow
Crewe
3 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Craven Arms 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 Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) start from as little as £12.50

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 Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) start from £44.80 one way, or £64.00 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 Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) are available for £50.80 one way, or £101.60 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 Craven Arms to Preston (Lancs) is £4.25 & the average saving on this route is £4.25!

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 Craven Arms Station

Discovering Craven Arms Train Station

Nestled in the tranquil Shropshire countryside, Craven Arms train station serves as a quaint but essential hub for travelers in the region. While it offers various travel destinations, it ensures a seamless experience for both locals and visitors passing through. Delving into the amenities, transport links, and popular routes from this station can enrich your travel plans, whether for leisure or business.

Facilities and Amenities at Craven Arms Station

Craven Arms train station is designed to cater to the basic needs of its passengers. While the station lacks a ticket office, ticket machines are available, providing a convenient way to collect tickets purchased online. Although these machines only accept card payments, they are accessible and easy to use with touchscreen controls. In matters of security, the presence of CCTV provides reassurance to passengers.

Accessibility features include step-free access to platforms, making the station Category B2. Platform 1 leads to destinations like Shrewsbury and is reachable via a ramp from Ash Close, while Platform 2, which heads towards Hereford, can be accessed from the car park. However, travelers should note the lack of exceptional facilities such as waiting rooms, accessible toilets, and staffed assistance. For further support, a helpline is available for planning travel and arranging accommodation for those with mobility impairments.

Transport Connections from Craven Arms

When exploring beyond Craven Arms, various options are available. Although there aren't any notable cycle hire facilities at the station, it's conveniently equipped with bicycle stands to accommodate up to eight bicycles on the southbound platform, ready for those bringing their own bikes. For longer journeys or disruptions, a rail replacement service is easily accessible at the station entrance, ensuring that travel plans can continue smoothly without major interruptions.

Popular Travel Routes

Craven Arms station acts as a gateway to many fascinating destinations. Whether you're venturing to nearby towns or bustling cities, the choices for exploration are plentiful. For a scenic journey, trains from Craven Arms lead to Welsh gems like Cardiff Central and Llandrindod. Head northwards, and you can reach places like Shrewsbury, Church Stretton, and even as far as Manchester Piccadilly and Chester. Those requiring access to major airports have convenient links to Manchester Airport and Birmingham International.

For travelers looking to indulge in city life, regular train services whisk you away to the likes of London Euston, London Paddington, and Birmingham New Street. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy journeys towards Ludlow, while those keen on historical landmarks might find their interests in cherished locales like Hereford or Leominster.

Embrace Convenient and Comfortable Travel

Craven Arms train station, though modest, offers travelers the essentials needed for a smooth journey. While certain amenities may be absent, the station makes up for this with a strong network of connections to adjacent regions and essential travel links. Before you set off, check for any seasonal changes and book your tickets online for the convenience of easy collection.

As journeying from Craven Arms takes you across bustling cities and serene towns, every route begins with a simple step at this charming station. Let Craven Arms be the starting line for your remarkable travel stories. Embrace journeys untold, for from this modest node, adventure is but a short ride away.

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 Craven Arms