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Trains from Dartford to
Manchester Piccadilly

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Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly by train

A train trip from Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly takes about 3hrs 50 mins on average, covering roughly 174 miles (280 kilometres). With around 87 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 £52.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Departure Station

Dartford

Frequency

87trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 43 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:50 / 00:16

Distance

174miles
(280 km)

4 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£52.00

Travelling from Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly by Train

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

Planning to travel from Dartford 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 50 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 43 mins. With roughly 87 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 174-mile (280 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of East Midlands Railway, Southeastern, Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Thameslink, 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 £52.00 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 Dartford and Manchester Piccadilly

Curious about your trip from Dartford 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 Dartford and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The travel time between Dartford and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 50 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 43 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly is 3hrs 43 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly can start from as little as £52.00 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 Dartford and Manchester Piccadilly?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Dartford and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 87 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:50, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:16.

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

First class tickets on trains between Dartford 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 Dartford and Manchester Piccadilly?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Dartford 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 Dartford 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 Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Dartford & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 87 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly?

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

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

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

When are Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly on Sunday 20th July 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Sunday 20th July
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
07:35 Dartford12:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
4 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
08:35 Dartford13:02 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
4 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
09:35 Dartford13:49 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
4 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
10:35 Dartford14:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
10:50 Dartford14:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
11:20 Dartford15:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
11:35 Dartford15:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
11:50 Dartford15:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
12:20 Dartford16:06 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
12:35 Dartford16:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
12:50 Dartford16:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
13:20 Dartford17:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Dartford 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 Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly start from as little as £52.00

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 Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly start from £85.10 one way, or £121.60 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 Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly are available for £214.50 one way, or £429.00 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 Dartford to Manchester Piccadilly is £1.80 & the average saving on this route is £1.80!

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 Dartford Station

Welcome to Dartford Station

Steeped in history and bridging journeys between Kent and London, Dartford Station is more than just a transit point. With its seamless connections and array of facilities, it caters to both seasoned commuters and curious explorers. Whether you’re heading to the bustling streets of London or venturing into the serene Kentish countryside, Dartford Station serves as your convenient gateway.

Facilities at Dartford Station

Dartford Station is well-equipped to make your travel experience comfortable. The ticket office is open from early morning until late evening throughout the week, and ticket machines are readily available, ensuring you can easily collect tickets purchased online. For those with accessibility needs, there are induction loops, step-free access, accessible toilets, and ticket machines. The station is vigilant about security, with CCTV in operation, and it holds a Secure Station accreditation.

Refreshment facilities include a café and vending machines for quick drinks and snacks. For those industrious mornings, there's an ATM located right outside. However, if you're looking for a quiet space to unwind, note that there is no designated waiting room or First-Class Lounge at Dartford.

Onward Travel Options

Located strategically, Dartford Station connects travelers to various localities through multiple transport options. Those searching for public transport will find bus routes with information easily accessible online. Taxis are also conveniently available right outside the station, making it easy to catch onward connections even when traveling with luggage.

Need to plan your trip ahead? The station offers resources for onward journey plans, available in a printable format here.

Popular Destinations

Fancy a city escape or a quick hop between stations? Dartford trains connect to many exciting destinations. The likes of London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and London Waterloo East are all easily reachable for city adventures. Meanwhile, quiet escapes such as Greenhithe for some retail therapy at Bluewater are conveniently close.

For further travel reaches, options abound, from sightseeing in Tottenham Court Road to the serene charm of Lewisham.

Why Choose Dartford Station?

Dartford isn't just about making a journey but ensuring that the journey is a delightful and memorable experience. With its easy transfers, supportive amenities for diverse needs, and impressive connections, this station makes a compelling case for existing and potential travelers alike.

So whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional traveler craving adventure, Dartford Station stands ready to take you where you need to be. Secure your tickets today and step aboard a journey filled with convenience, assurance, and exciting destinations.

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 Dartford