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Trains from Gillingham (Dorset) to
Preston (Lancs)

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Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) by train

A train trip from Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) takes about 6hrs 42 mins on average, covering roughly 189 miles (304 kilometres). With around 16 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 £56.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

Gillingham (Dorset)

Frequency

16trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 19 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:12 / 23:20

Distance

189miles
(304 km)

3 Routes

2 Train Operators

Prices

from£56.00

Travelling from Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) by Train

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

Planning to travel from Gillingham (Dorset) 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 6hrs 42 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 5hrs 19 mins. With roughly 16 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 189-mile (304 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Avanti West Coast, South Western Railway, 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 £56.00 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 Preston (Lancs)!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Gillingham (Dorset) and Preston (Lancs)

Curious about your trip from Gillingham (Dorset) 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 Gillingham (Dorset) and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The travel time between Gillingham (Dorset) and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 42 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 19 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) is 5hrs 19 mins.

How much does the train from Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) cost?

Train ticket prices from Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) can start from as little as £56.00 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 Gillingham (Dorset) and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Gillingham (Dorset) and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 16 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:12, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:20.

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

First class tickets on trains between Gillingham (Dorset) 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 Gillingham (Dorset) and Preston (Lancs)?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Gillingham (Dorset) 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 Gillingham (Dorset) 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 Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs)?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Gillingham (Dorset) & Preston (Lancs). However, there are 16 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs)?

Avanti West Coast and South Western Railway are the main train operating companies running services between Gillingham (Dorset) and Preston (Lancs).

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Gillingham (Dorset) and Preston (Lancs)?

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

When are Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Gillingham (Dorset) 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
08:12 Gillingham (Dorset)13:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
09:18 Gillingham (Dorset)14:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
09:52 Gillingham (Dorset)15:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
10:51 Gillingham (Dorset)16:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
11:51 Gillingham (Dorset)17:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
12:51 Gillingham (Dorset)18:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
13:51 Gillingham (Dorset)19:38 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
14:51 Gillingham (Dorset)20:10 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
16:18 Gillingham (Dorset)21:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
16:51 Gillingham (Dorset)23:01 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
6 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
17:52 Gillingham (Dorset)23:46 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
5 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
18:52 Gillingham (Dorset)06:41 Preston (Lancs)3 changesLondon Waterloo
London Euston
Crewe
11 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Gillingham (Dorset) 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 Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) start from as little as £56.00

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 Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) start from £105.20 one way, or £150.30 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 Gillingham (Dorset) to Preston (Lancs) are available for £115.40 one way, or £230.80 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 Gillingham (Dorset) Station

Welcome to Gillingham (Dorset) Train Station

If you're setting off on an adventure from Gillingham (Dorset), you're starting from a station full of charm rooted deep in Dorset's picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re a local commuter or a curious traveler looking to explore the South West, Gillingham station promises convenience and comfort—a homey springboard to your next journey.

Facilities and Ticket Buying at Gillingham (Dorset)

Gillingham station is well-equipped to handle your travel needs. The ticket office is open from 06:00 to 18:00 on weekdays, 07:00 to 18:00 on Saturdays, and 09:30 to 17:00 on Sundays. For those who prefer quicker transactions or need to collect tickets purchased online, ticket machines are available and accessible, including for Disabled Persons Railcard discounts.

The station offers step-free access to Platform 1, making it manageable for most travelers, though further assistance can be arranged with the train guard. While staff help is not available directly at the station, customer help points are there for immediate queries. The entire station is covered by CCTV, and there's a seating area and waiting room open during similar hours as the ticket office.

Onward Travel Options

When it comes to moving beyond the station, Gillingham provides various transport links. Rail replacement services operate from the Station Forecourt on Station Road, and local bus services can be planned with information available in a handy poster format.

Though parking is self-managed, there are 126 parking spaces with special accommodations for six accessible spaces. RingGo is the station's designated payment method, offering various parking tariffs, including hourly, daily, and annual pricing.

Popular Destinations from Gillingham

With tickets in hand, your exploration possibilities are plentiful. From Gillingham, you can embark on vibrant city adventures or charming countryside retreats. Direct trains connect you to major hubs including London Waterloo and Salisbury, or scenic trips to places like Bath Spa and Exeter Central.

If you're headed further afield, the station is your gateway to destinations such as Gatwick Airport or connecting to cultural stops like Bristol Temple Meads. For the business traveler, Clapham Junction and Reading present themselves as efficient destinations.

Final Thoughts

Gillingham (Dorset) station might not dazzle with overt modernization, but it offers essential amenities for a seamless travel experience. Its understated presence and convenient access to popular travel routes make it a gem in Dorset's rail network. So whether you're heading to bustling cities or tranquil countryside, ensure you have your tickets ready and enjoy the journey ahead from this charming station.

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 Gillingham (Dorset)