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Trains from London Charing Cross to
Manchester Piccadilly

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London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly by train

Planning a train journey from London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly? The trip usually takes about 5hrs 26 mins, covering approximately 162 miles (261 kilometres). With roughly 11 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £34.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Departure Station

London Charing Cross

Frequency

11trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 23 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:06 / 16:16

Distance

162miles
(261 km)

1 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly by Train

Jump on a Train from London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 5hrs 26 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Charing Cross, the quickest trains can get you there in just 5hrs 23 mins. With approximately 11 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 162-mile (261 km) route usually requires just one change, with Thameslink, Southeastern, East Midlands Railway providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £34.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Manchester Piccadilly!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly

Curious about your trip from London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The travel time between London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 26 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 23 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly is 5hrs 23 mins.

How much does the train from London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly cost?

Train ticket prices from London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 11 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:06, and the last train of the day leaves at 16:16.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly?

First class tickets on trains between London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Charing Cross & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 11 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly?

Thameslink, Southeastern and East Midlands Railway are the main train operating companies running services between London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Charing Cross and Manchester Piccadilly?

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

When are London Charing Cross to Manchester Piccadilly Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Charing Cross 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
06:06 London Charing Cross11:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
07:08 London Charing Cross12:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
08:12 London Charing Cross13:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
09:08 London Charing Cross14:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
10:08 London Charing Cross15:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
11:08 London Charing Cross16:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
12:08 London Charing Cross17:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
13:08 London Charing Cross18:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
14:08 London Charing Cross19:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
15:08 London Charing Cross20:36 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
16:08 London Charing Cross21:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross Station

An Overview of London Charing Cross Train Station

London Charing Cross is not just a train station; it's a gateway to an exciting exploration of the UK, conveniently nestled in the heart of London's bustling atmosphere. Serving as a vibrant hub to many popular destinations, this station intertwines historical charm with modern amenities to make travel as effortless as possible.

Station Facilities and Services

Charing Cross station provides a range of facilities designed to make your journey as smooth and accessible as possible. For starters, the ticket office is open every day of the week, and ticket machines are available round the clock, allowing for seamless ticket purchases and collections. The station ensures accessibility with step-free access throughout and wheelchair assistance. You can find accessible toilets and induction loops installed at various points for those who are hearing impaired.

Waiting times at Charing Cross are comfortable with partially or fully covered canopies stretching across platforms, though there is no dedicated first-class lounge or seating area. For dining and retail therapy, the main concourse offers refreshment facilities, shops, and ATM machines, although a currency exchange service isn’t available on-site.

Transport Connections

Reaching your next destination from London Charing Cross is a breeze, thanks to the numerous transport links available. A 24-hour taxi rank is located just outside the station's main entrance. Things get even more convenient with buses operating on The Strand. For those preferring to navigate the city below ground, both the Bakerloo and Northern lines are accessible from Charing Cross.

Should you want to embrace some pedal power, Santander hire cycles are located near the station. Details are available here.

Popular Routes from Charing Cross

Charing Cross isn't just about local commutes; it’s a launchpad for venturing into a plethora of fantastic destinations. If you're heading to iconic sites, consider a short trip from London Bridge, or for a scenic journey, you can opt for Tunbridge Wells. Whether you’re commuting to Sevenoaks or visiting historical towns like Tonbridge, the options are plentiful!

Embracing Rail Travel

For train enthusiasts and city explorers alike, London Charing Cross offers a robust start or end to any journey. With its central location, extensive facilities, and direct links to further destinations, it stands as one of London's steadfast pillars of railway travel. Whether you're a commuter, a tourist, or even just someone needing a day out, Charing Cross should certainly mark its place on your travel map.

So, why wait? Embark on a journey today and experience the ease of booking and traveling through London Charing Cross. Whether it’s the excitement of bustling city life or a serene escape, the possibilities await right from your train seat.

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 London Charing Cross