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Trains from London Kings Cross to
Manchester Piccadilly

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London Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly by train

Planning a train journey from London Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 40 mins, covering approximately 161 miles (259 kilometres). With roughly 35 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 Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Departure Station

London Kings Cross

Frequency

35trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 11 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:55 / 02:17

Distance

161miles
(259 km)

6 Routes

7 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from London Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 40 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Kings Cross, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 11 mins. With approximately 35 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 161-mile (259 km) route usually requires just one change, with London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Grand Central, First Hull Trains, East Midlands Railway, Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express 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 Kings Cross and Manchester Piccadilly

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

The travel time between London Kings Cross and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 40 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 11 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from London Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly is 3hrs 11 mins.

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

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

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Kings Cross and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 35 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:55, and the last train of the day leaves at 02:17.

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

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

Amenities on trains between London Kings 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 Kings 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 Kings 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 Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Kings Cross & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 35 possible journeys which require a change.

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

London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Grand Central, First Hull Trains, East Midlands Railway, Northern Rail and First TransPennine Express are the main train operating companies running services between London Kings Cross and Manchester Piccadilly.

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

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Kings 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 Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly on Friday 2nd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 2nd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
13:03 London Kings Cross16:38 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesWakefield Kirkgate
3 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
13:48 London Kings Cross17:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeDoncaster
3 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
14:03 London Kings Cross17:39 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesWakefield Kirkgate
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
14:56 London Kings Cross18:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeDoncaster
3 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
15:03 London Kings Cross18:35 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesDoncaster
Sheffield
3 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
15:48 London Kings Cross19:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeDoncaster
3 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
16:27 London Kings Cross19:38 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeWakefield Kirkgate
3 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
16:33 London Kings Cross20:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeDoncaster
3 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
17:00 London Kings Cross20:38 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeYork
3 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
17:03 London Kings Cross20:49 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeLeeds
3 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
17:33 London Kings Cross21:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeDoncaster
3 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
18:03 London Kings Cross21:49 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeLeeds
3 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Kings 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 Kings 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 Kings 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 Kings 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.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from London Kings Cross to Manchester Piccadilly is £6.75 & the average saving on this route is £2.25!

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 London Kings Cross Station

Introduction to London Kings Cross Station

Welcome to the bustling hub of London Kings Cross train station, a key piece of London's extensive rail network and a gateway to many parts of the UK. In addition to its essential role in the rail network, Kings Cross has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. This transformation includes a vast refurbishment that has rejuvenated the station into a modern, passenger-friendly terminal. Whether you're a seasoned commuter, a tourist on a grand adventure, or simply passing through, Kings Cross offers amenities and conveniences that cater to diverse needs.

Facilities at London Kings Cross

For anyone navigating through the busy corridors of London Kings Cross, rest assured, all your travel-related needs are thoroughly looked after. With the ticket office open from early morning until late in the evening, buying and collecting tickets couldn't be more convenient. If you find yourself needing assistance, the information points, help desks, and staff assistance service — available almost throughout the station's operating hours — ensure you are never without guidance.

Those with mobility challenges will find Kings Cross accommodating as it offers step-free access and accessible ticket machines that comply with disability standards. Additionally, there are accessible toilets, as well as an availability of ramps for train access. Rest assured, if you require assistance, trained staff are available to help you throughout the day.

Passenger Conveniences

The station boasts various amenities that transform travel waiting times into smoother experiences. The lounge areas offer comfort, with a First Class Lounge providing additional luxuries. For those traveling with infants, baby-changing facilities are accessible, alongside regular and accessible toilets located conveniently around the station.

Apart from the basic amenities, Kings Cross is a shopper's delight. The station hosts a range of shops, from pharmacies and clothing stores to cafes, making it a one-stop location for travelers who seek to unwind or pick up essentials while waiting. If you need cash or currency exchange, ATMs and exchange services are readily available on the concourse.

Connectivity and Onward Travel

London Kings Cross is nothing short of a transportation hub, linking seamlessly with a plethora of onward travel options. Outside the station, a bustling taxi rank awaits to whisk you away to your next destination. For bus travelers, various routes wind through and around the station, providing easy transfers and accessibility information detailed on Transport for London’s website.

No underground or metro services directly connect Kings Cross, but the nearby connections on St Pancras Road offer straightforward transition points to those needing rail replacement services or Lumo pick-up and drop-off points. The airport connection from the London Underground offers travelers connections to international and national air services.

Popular Destinations and Routes

If you're looking for travel inspiration, London Kings Cross is a gateway to some of the UK's most cherished destinations. Adventure through beautiful eastern England and beyond with regular trains from London Kings Cross to Cambridge, or head north with swift services to Edinburgh and Newcastle. Closer connections include short jaunts to places like Stevenage, and comprehensive services make it easy to plan your next trip.

Conclusion

London Kings Cross station is more than just a place to catch a train. Rich in history and brilliantly connected, it plays a pivotal role in your journey, whether you're starting or ending your adventure here. It’s a station that has modernized without losing its essence, ready to support all your travel needs with maximum convenience and extensive services. Here's to your adventures starting at, passing through, or ending at one of London's favorite stations!

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 Kings Cross