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Trains from Manchester Airport to
Stansted Airport

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Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport? The trip usually takes about 5hrs 28 mins, covering approximately 147 miles (237 kilometres). With roughly 18 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 £19.60, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport Key Stats

Arrival Station

Stansted Airport

Departure Station

Manchester Airport

Frequency

18trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 7 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:07 / 00:06

Distance

147miles
(237 km)

4 Routes

7 Train Operators

Prices

from£19.60

Travelling from Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 5hrs 28 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Airport, the quickest trains can get you there in just 5hrs 7 mins. With approximately 18 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 147-mile (237 km) route usually requires just one change, with East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Abellio Greater Anglia 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 £19.60, 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 Stansted Airport!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport

Curious about your trip from Manchester Airport to Stansted 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 Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport by train?

The travel time between Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 28 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 7 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport is 5hrs 7 mins.

How much does the train from Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport cost?

Train ticket prices from Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport can start from as little as £19.60 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 Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 18 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:07, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:06.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Manchester Airport & Stansted Airport. However, there are 18 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport?

East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, CrossCountry and Abellio Greater Anglia are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Airport and Stansted Airport?

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

When are Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:43 Manchester Airport11:24 Stansted Airport2 changesSheffield
Ely
5 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
07:04 Manchester Airport11:41 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
07:17 Manchester Airport12:24 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Ely
5 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
08:17 Manchester Airport13:24 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Ely
5 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
09:04 Manchester Airport13:41 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
09:17 Manchester Airport14:24 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Ely
5 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
10:17 Manchester Airport15:24 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Ely
5 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
11:04 Manchester Airport15:55 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
4 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
11:17 Manchester Airport16:24 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Ely
5 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
12:17 Manchester Airport17:24 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Ely
5 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
13:04 Manchester Airport17:41 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
15:04 Manchester Airport19:41 Stansted Airport2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Airport to Stansted 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 Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport start from as little as £19.60

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 Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport start from £90.70 one way, or £129.70 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 Manchester Airport to Stansted Airport are available for £131.50 one way, or £188.50 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 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!

Everything you need to know about Stansted Airport Station

Explore Stansted Airport Train Station: Gateway to Your Adventures

Stansted Airport train station is not just a transit point; it's an integral part of the travel experience for those flying into or out of one of London's bustling airports. With its seamless blend of convenience and connectivity, this station serves as a crucial link, bringing together rail services with air travel.

Facilities and Innovations at Stansted Airport Station

Open every day from 06:30 to 00:00, the ticket office at Stansted Airport train station ensures that you're all set for your journey, whether it's purchasing tickets or collecting pre-booked ones. Ticket machines are available for quick access, and you can also enjoy the option of smartcard issuance – though, mentionable, there are no smartcard validators on-site.

In terms of accessibility, the station prides itself on being a category A access point, offering step-free access throughout. Lifts are available, and there are accessible toilets and seating areas for passengers with reduced mobility. Unfortunately, while wheelchairs are available, the lack of accessible taxis and vehicle set-down points might require some advance planning for those needing additional assistance.

Onward Travel from Stansted Airport

Stansted Airport station offers various onward travel options seamlessly designed to cater to different passenger needs. Whether you're connecting to local buses and national coach routes, all services are conveniently located within the airport's bus station. For those preferring the direct rail services, the station itself is nestled within the Stansted Airport terminal, simplifying connections. Should you wish to explore further by car, car hire facilities can be found within the airport terminal.

Bus and National Express coach services further extend your travel options, providing connections to destinations all over the UK. Rail replacement services, when needed, are managed efficiently from the main coach station.

Popular Railway Routes from Stansted Airport

Journeying from Stansted Airport offers you more than just a path to London's heart; it's your ticket to a plethora of destinations waiting to be explored. Head directly to bustling hubs with frequent trains such as London Liverpool Street, or delve into academia and history with a ride to Cambridge. For those with business or leisure in their sights, traversing to places like Birmingham New Street or Nottingham becomes straightforward and hassle-free.

If plans call for local discoveries or short commutes, trips to Bishops Stortford and many more await at the platforms of Stansted Airport station.

Concluding Your Experience at Stansted Airport Station

Every traveller’s needs can find solace at Stansted Airport train station. Be it tickets ready at the click of a button, refreshments at the stations’ coffee shops, or connecting seamlessly from planes to trains. This station excels at weaving an easygoing travel journey. Make it your starting point for explorations and, with accessible offerings and numerous destinations, your hub for adventures yet not planned.

For efficient ticket booking, be it advance or spontaneous, countless online platforms are available. Get your train travel mapped out with ease, ensure your journey is smooth, and let Stansted Airport train station be the gateway to your next memorable journey.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Manchester Airport