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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Manchester Airport

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London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport? The trip usually takes about 5hrs 56 mins, covering approximately 157 miles (253 kilometres). With roughly 25 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 Waterloo East to Manchester Airport Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Airport

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

25trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 45 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:09 / 23:13

Distance

157miles
(253 km)

3 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

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

Typically, the trip takes about 5hrs 56 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 5hrs 45 mins. With approximately 25 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 157-mile (253 km) route usually requires just one change, with Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway, First TransPennine Express, Southeastern, Thameslink, 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 Airport!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport? 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 Waterloo East and Manchester Airport by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 56 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 45 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport is 5hrs 45 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport 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 Waterloo East and Manchester Airport?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 25 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:09, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:13.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Airport, 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 Waterloo East to Manchester Airport?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Manchester Airport. However, there are 25 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport?

Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway, First TransPennine Express, Southeastern, Thameslink and East Midlands Railway are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Manchester Airport?

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

When are London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport on Tuesday 6th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 6th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:09 London Waterloo East10:09 Manchester Airport3 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
Leeds
11 hrs Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Manchester Airport 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 Waterloo East to Manchester Airport 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 Waterloo East to Manchester Airport 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 Waterloo East to Manchester Airport 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 Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

Everything you need to know about Manchester Airport Station

Discover Manchester Airport Train Station

For both the wanderlust-laden traveler and the business commuter, Manchester Airport train station is a pivotal gateway in the UK’s vast rail network. Sitting comfortably within the airport complex, it provides easy access to Manchester's bustling city and beyond, simplifying the journey for those flying in or out.

The station’s strategic location makes it a favored stop for passengers transitioning between air and rail, offering smooth connections to major cities across the UK.

Facilities at Manchester Airport Station

The amenities at Manchester Airport station are designed to ensure a smooth and pleasant travel experience. Ticket purchasing is convenient, with a ticket office open from 06:30 to 22:30 daily and multiple ticket machines available for swift service. Smartcards can also be issued at this station although validators are not present. Accessibility is a core focus, with step-free access throughout, plus accessible ticket machines and toilets.

For those with disabilities or requiring extra support, staff assistance is readily available. If you're feeling peckish, head to platforms 2 and 3 where you'll find shops and refreshment facilities. Warm waiting rooms provide comfort during chilly moments, and you can stay connected with public Wi-Fi access across the station.

Onward Travel Connections

Manchester Airport station isn’t just about the trains. It's well-linked with other transport modes to smoothly transition you to your next destination. The taxi rank is conveniently located right outside the station, offering a quick transfer option. For those interested in buses, you can find more information on your options to plan your onward journey here.

If you’re keen to explore on four wheels, car hire services are available right within the airport terminal, making it simple to hit the road and discover more of the UK’s picturesque landscapes.

Popular Train Routes from Manchester Airport

From Manchester Airport station, a tapestry of train routes stretches out, connecting you to some of the most vibrant and historic spots in the north. Catch a train to Manchester Piccadilly and dive into a city pulsating with cultural activity. Or, why not head to Liverpool Lime Street and lose yourself in the birthplace of the Beatles? For those who appreciate the blend of history and modernity, a journey to Leeds is but a ticket away.

For practical day trips or business appointments, catch a train to local stops like Manchester Oxford Road or Deansgate. Whether your destination is York, Chester, or Blackpool North, train travel from Manchester Airport station offers both versatility and convenience.

Conclusion

As a key transport hub, Manchester Airport train station offers much more than just transit; it is a portal into adventure, convenience, and the opportunity to connect with the world beyond. Whether you’re coming or going, for business or leisure, the station’s facilities and extensive travel connections make it a friendly and efficient beginning or end to your journey. So, grab yourself a ticket today and let the rails take you on your next adventure!

Bon voyage!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East