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Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to
Folkestone Central

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Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 22 mins, covering approximately 219 miles (352 kilometres). With roughly 34 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 £49.50, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Folkestone Central

Departure Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Frequency

34trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 47 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:05 / 01:26

Distance

219miles
(352 km)

4 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£49.50

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 22 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Piccadilly, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 47 mins. With approximately 34 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 219-mile (352 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southeastern, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, CrossCountry 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 £49.50, 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 Folkestone Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Piccadilly and Folkestone Central

Curious about your trip from Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central? 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 Folkestone Central by train?

The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and Folkestone Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 22 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 47 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central is 3hrs 47 mins.

How much does the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central can start from as little as £49.50 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 Folkestone Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Folkestone Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 34 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:05, and the last train of the day leaves at 01:26.

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

First class tickets on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Folkestone Central 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 Folkestone Central?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central 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 Folkestone Central. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Folkestone Central, 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 Folkestone Central?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Manchester Piccadilly & Folkestone Central. However, there are 34 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central?

Southeastern, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Piccadilly and Folkestone Central.

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

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

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central 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 Folkestone Central start from as little as £49.50

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 Folkestone Central start from £100.50 one way, or £143.70 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 Piccadilly to Folkestone Central are available for £233.40 one way, or £466.80 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Folkestone Central is £3.80 & the average saving on this route is £3.80!

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 Folkestone Central Station

Welcome to Folkestone Central Station

Nestled in the picturesque county of Kent, Folkestone Central train station serves as a vital hub for travelers heading towards the scenic coastline or venturing further afield. Whether you're setting off for a day at the beach, exploring the captivating landscapes of southeast England, or embarking on a journey to bustling London, Folkestone Central provides convenient and reliable services. Let's delve into the array of amenities that ensure your journey from Folkestone is both comfortable and efficient.

Facilities at Folkestone Central

Stepping into Folkestone Central, you're greeted by a welcoming environment that caters to all your travel necessities. For those purchasing or collecting tickets, the station boasts a ticket office open from Monday to Saturday, 6:00 to 19:00, and on Sundays from 8:10 to 17:40. Ticket machines are available for added convenience, with the capability to collect pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is a priority here, with an induction loop and accessible ticket machines located in the booking hall.

For individuals requiring assistance, there are customer help points and detailed staff support available. Travel information features through comprehensive departure screens and announcements, ensuring you are always updated with the latest schedule information. While luggage storage isn't available, you can rest easy knowing CCTV is in operation for enhanced security.

Passengers with mobility needs can navigate the station effortlessly thanks to step-free access across all platforms. Facilities such as accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and wheelchairs ensure a barrier-free environment. The station also offers four accessible parking spaces, although accessible car park equipment is not installed. Heated waiting rooms and adequate seating areas make waiting for your train a comfortable experience.

Travel Connections

Beyond rail services, Folkestone Central is well-connected by other modes of transport. If your journey continues by bus, you'll find information for onward travel plans and services easily accessible from the station. The rail replacement bus stop is conveniently located just beyond the station, details of which can be accessed through this link.

The station hosts a taxi rank at the front, ready to whisk you away to your next destination with little fuss. If you're planning routes either locally or further afield, various bus services also run near the station. More detailed information and printable timetables can be found here.

Popular Routes from Folkestone Central

When it comes to destinations, Folkestone Central opens up a world of possibilities. Direct trains to bustling hubs like London St Pancras International and London Bridge allow for swift access to the capital's numerous attractions. For international journeys, a quick hop to Ashford International connects you to Eurostar services.

Coastal escapes abound with trains to Dover Priory and Ramsgate. The historic city of Canterbury, known for its stunning cathedral, is also a short journey away. The station makes it easy to set off on adventures across Kent's enchanting countryside.

A Concluding Note on Folkestone Central

Folkestone Central isn't just a station; it's a gateway to countless experiences awaiting exploration. From leisure travelers to daily commuters, the station assures a smooth and accommodating travel experience. With various connections and travel conveniences, your journey from Folkestone Central could just be the start of your next great adventure. So, why not jump on board and see where the tracks might take you next?

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Manchester Piccadilly