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Trains from Fort William to
Manchester Piccadilly

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Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly by train

A train trip from Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly takes about 9hrs 18 mins on average, covering roughly 257 miles (414 kilometres). With around 3 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 £25.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Departure Station

Fort William

Frequency

3trains
per day

Journey Time

from8hrs 42 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

07:44 / 04:35

Distance

257miles
(414 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£25.50

Travelling from Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly by Train

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

Planning to travel from Fort William 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 9hrs 18 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 8hrs 42 mins. With roughly 3 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 257-mile (414 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Caledonian Sleeper, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, ScotRail, 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 £25.50 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 Manchester Piccadilly!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Fort William and Manchester Piccadilly

Curious about your trip from Fort William 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 Fort William and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The travel time between Fort William and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 9hrs 18 mins & the fastest journey takes 8hrs 42 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly is 8hrs 42 mins.

How much does the train from Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly cost?

Train ticket prices from Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly can start from as little as £25.50 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 Fort William and Manchester Piccadilly?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Fort William and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 3 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 07:44, and the last train of the day leaves at 04:35.

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

First class tickets on trains between Fort William 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 Fort William and Manchester Piccadilly?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Fort William 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 Fort William 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 Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Fort William & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 3 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly?

Caledonian Sleeper, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail and ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between Fort William and Manchester Piccadilly.

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

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

When are Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly on Sunday 1st June 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Sunday 1st June
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
19:00 Fort William08:27 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesGlasgow Queen Street
Glasgow Central
13 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Fort William 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 Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly start from as little as £25.50

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 Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly start from £113.10 one way, or £161.70 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 Fort William to Manchester Piccadilly are available for £117.50 one way, or £235.00 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 Fort William Station

Welcome to Fort William Train Station

Fort William train station, nestled in the scenic Scottish Highlands, is more than just a mere stop on a railway line; it's a gateway to adventure and discovery. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first visit to this picturesque locale, you’ll find all the necessary details about the station’s facilities and services here. Conveniently located to serve enthusiasts of both urban and rustic charms, Fort William station remains a key hub of transportation in the region.

Station Facilities and Amenities

The Fort William train station offers a range of facilities designed to enhance your travel experience. Ticketing services are available both at the ticket office and via ticket machines, ensuring that purchasing or collecting rail tickets, including those bought online, is a breeze. Opening hours vary throughout the week, with ample time to manage your travel plans comfortably.

Accessibility is a strong feature at this station, classified as a Category A station with step-free access throughout. While the station does not have accessible taxis, dedicated parking bays are present for Blue Badge holders. Unfortunately, there's no luggage storage facility, so plan accordingly.

For those who might require assistance, staff help and customer help points are readily available. Don't hesitate to communicate your needs; your comfort and safety are prioritized. In case you lose any belongings, the ScotRail Lost Property service is accessible with specified hours of operation for assistance.

Onward Travel from Fort William

Continuing your journey from Fort William station is simple, thanks to its extensive transport connectivity. The station serves as a vital link between multiple modes of transport including local buses—check Traveline Scotland for schedules—taxis, and even cycle hire through Nevis Cycles, which offers discounted rates for train ticket holders. For precise bus pickup locations, refer to this helpful what3words link.

Popular Destinations

Fort William station is your launchpad to breathtaking locales. Perhaps embark on a scenic journey to Mallaig, or explore cultural hubs like Edinburgh and Glasgow Queen Street. For those aiming for epic adventure, a trip to London Euston or the tranquility of Glenfinnan might be just what you seek. With such a range of destinations, Fort William offers something for every traveler.

Final Thoughts

Fort William train station represents the convergence of practicality and possibility. Equipped with essential amenities while serving as a doorstep to some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, it caters to diverse travel needs. Whether catching a train to bustling metropolises or quaint rural towns, this station facilitates a seamless start to your journey.

Now is the perfect time to purchase your tickets and set off on an adventure from Fort William. Let your next memorable journey begin with the ease and convenience that only this splendid station can offer.

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 Fort William