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Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to
Carstairs

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Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 50 mins, covering approximately 163 miles (263 kilometres). With roughly 15 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 £13.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs Key Stats

Arrival Station

Carstairs

Departure Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Frequency

15trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 47 mins

Changes

01 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:57 / 00:24

Distance

163miles
(263 km)

8 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£13.00

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 50 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Piccadilly, the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 47 mins. With approximately 15 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 163-mile (263 km) route usually requires just one change, with First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Rail 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 £13.00, 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 Carstairs!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs

Curious about your trip from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs? 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 Piccadilly and Carstairs by train?

The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 50 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 47 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs is 2hrs 47 mins.

How much does the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs cost?

Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs can start from as little as £13.00 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 Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 15 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:57, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:24.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs by train?

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

Yes! There are usually around 1 direct services per day from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs

What train companies run services from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs?

First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, Caledonian Sleeper and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Carstairs?

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

When are Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs 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
04:57 Manchester Piccadilly07:44 CarstairsDirect2 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
05:49 Manchester Piccadilly10:27 Carstairs2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Glasgow Central
4 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
06:33 Manchester Piccadilly10:47 Carstairs2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Haymarket
4 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
07:50 Manchester Piccadilly12:24 Carstairs2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Glasgow Central
4 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
08:21 Manchester Piccadilly12:32 Carstairs1 changeEdinburgh
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
10:21 Manchester Piccadilly14:18 Carstairs1 changeEdinburgh
3 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
12:22 Manchester Piccadilly16:17 Carstairs1 changeEdinburgh
3 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
12:33 Manchester Piccadilly16:19 Carstairs2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Motherwell
3 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
14:21 Manchester Piccadilly18:29 Carstairs1 changeHaymarket
4 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
14:50 Manchester Piccadilly19:09 Carstairs2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Haymarket
4 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
15:50 Manchester Piccadilly20:30 Carstairs2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Glasgow Central
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
18:50 Manchester Piccadilly23:51 Carstairs2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Haymarket
5 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs 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 Piccadilly to Carstairs start from as little as £13.00

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 Manchester Piccadilly to Carstairs start from £73.00 one way, or £104.40 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 Piccadilly to Carstairs are available for £74.90 one way, or £149.80 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 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.

Everything you need to know about Carstairs Station

Discover Carstairs Train Station: A Hidden Gem in Scotland's Rail Network

Carstairs train station offers more than just a transit point; it's a gateway to some of Scotland's and the UK's most enchanting destinations. Nestled in the verdant landscapes of South Lanarkshire, catching a train from Carstairs could be your perfect start to explore beyond the ordinary. Whether you're a commuter or a tourist, this station offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern convenience.

Essential Facilities to Keep You on Track

The station's ticket office operates from 07:20 to 14:24, Monday through Saturday, although it's closed on Sundays. You can collect tickets purchased online directly from the office, and the station supports smartcard validators for ease of travel. Notably, step-free access is available throughout the station, with lifts to both platforms, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all passengers.

For those moments of waiting, the station provides a seating area and a waiting room, conveniently located within the ticket office building. However, be sure to plan ahead as there are no dining facilities or ATMs available on-site, which reflects the station's focus on efficient transport over commercial amenities.

A Helping Hand When You Need It

If you need assistance, there's help readily available from 07:20 to 14:24 during weekdays. The station is equipped with customer help points and departure screens to keep passengers informed. While there are no accessible toilets, baby changing facilities are on hand, and the station is under CCTV surveillance for your safety.

Seamless Connections Beyond Carstairs

Carstairs station is excellently connected to a variety of onward travel options. If your journey includes rail replacement services, buses serve the station via Strawfrank Road, making transitions easy. For those preferring a taxi, comprehensive details can be found on www.traintaxi.co.uk. To explore local areas further by bus, visit Travelinescotland.com or call their 24-hour service line.

Popular Routes from Carstairs: Where Can You Go?

From Carstairs, you’re well-positioned to access a variety of exciting destinations. Whether it's the cultural vibrancy of Edinburgh, the bustling streets of Glasgow, or extending your journey as far afield as London Euston. These connections make Carstairs a pivotal location for both city slickers and those seeking to escape to scenic retreats such as Aberdeen or Dundee.

Closing Thoughts: Why Carstairs Is Worth the Stop

In summary, Carstairs might be a smaller station, but its influence within the wider rail network is significant. It's well equipped with essential services and ensures excellent accessibility. With a range of destinations at your fingertips, it offers diverse travel opportunities for both regular commuters and adventurous explorers alike. Whether it's the start or the end of your journey, Carstairs is a station that guarantees you a pleasant transit experience. Don't forget to plan your itinerary and purchase your tickets online to make the most of your travel from this charming station.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Manchester Piccadilly