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Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to
Gretna Green

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Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 33 mins, covering approximately 110 miles (178 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 £11.50, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green Key Stats

Arrival Station

Gretna Green

Departure Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Frequency

15trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 16 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:57 / 01:36

Distance

110miles
(178 km)

3 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£11.50

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 33 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Piccadilly, the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 16 mins. With approximately 15 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 110-mile (178 km) route usually requires just one change, with ScotRail, Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast 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 £11.50, 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 Gretna Green!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Piccadilly and Gretna Green

Curious about your trip from Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green? 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 Gretna Green by train?

The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and Gretna Green by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 33 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 16 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green is 2hrs 16 mins.

How much does the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green cost?

Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green can start from as little as £11.50 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 Gretna Green?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Gretna Green 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 01:36.

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

First class tickets on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Manchester Piccadilly & Gretna Green. However, there are 15 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green?

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

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

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

When are Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green on Wednesday 30th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Wednesday 30th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
11:33 Manchester Piccadilly14:20 Gretna Green2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Carlisle
2 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
12:50 Manchester Piccadilly15:21 Gretna Green2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Carlisle
2 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
13:50 Manchester Piccadilly16:20 Gretna Green2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Carlisle
2 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
15:21 Manchester Piccadilly17:41 Gretna Green1 changeCarlisle
2 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
16:50 Manchester Piccadilly19:36 Gretna Green2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Carlisle
2 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
18:50 Manchester Piccadilly21:23 Gretna Green2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Carlisle
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
20:33 Manchester Piccadilly23:22 Gretna Green2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Carlisle
2 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
21:15 Manchester Piccadilly06:20 Gretna Green2 changesWatford Junction
Carlisle
9 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
23:32 Manchester Piccadilly07:13 Gretna Green2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Carlisle
7 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
23:56 Manchester Piccadilly09:06 Gretna Green2 changesLeeds
Carlisle
9 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green start from as little as £11.50

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 Gretna Green start from £57.40 one way, or £82.00 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green are available for £61.00 one way, or £122.00 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Gretna Green is £40.90 & the average saving on this route is £40.90!

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 Gretna Green Station

Discover Gretna Green Train Station

Nestled in the village renowned for its romantic elopements, Gretna Green train station is a quaint and storied stop on the UK rail network. While the village itself boasts a rich history that dates back centuries—a beacon for lovers crossing the border—modern-day travelers will find an unassuming yet charming railway station that serves as a gateway to both local adventures and destinations further afield.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Gretna Green station is all about simplicity and maintaining a connection to its charming surroundings without the hustle of large urban stations. While this compact station does not have onsite ticket purchasing facilities or machines, it makes up for it with ease of use. There is no dedicated ticket office, but travelers can pre-purchase tickets online, ensuring a smooth travel experience. The presence of smartcard validators adds a touch of modern convenience for regular rail users. Additionally, despite being small, the station is partially accessible with step-free access available to both platforms, making it welcoming for passengers with reduced mobility.

Other amenities focus on the essentials. There are no refreshment facilities, shops, or ATMs, so plan accordingly before you arrive. For those needing transportation, the station provides clear options for taxis via Train Taxi services. Bus travel is supported through local services detailed at TravelLine Scotland’s website, offering flexibility for those exploring the surrounding areas.

Onward Travel Opportunities

Whether you're staying local or embarking on a longer journey, Gretna Green station serves as a springboard for all destinations. With the station's proximity to the Scottish border, exciting cities like Carlisle and Dumfries are a short ride away—a brief train journey from Gretna Green to Carlisle opens up a world of shops, museums, and the historic Carlisle Castle. Further afield, options are aplenty with direct trains reaching larger cities such as Glasgow and London. For an adventurous day trip, why not head from Gretna Green to Annan or enjoy the bustling streets of Glasgow Central?

For those thinking about proceeding to Edinburgh, train services are readily available, and you can find more details by visiting the dedicated page for Gretna Green to Edinburgh Waverley train times. When the journey calls for an English escape, services from Gretna Green can take you to iconic locations like Liverpool or Newcastle, making planning seamless with online booking options to help smooth out your travel itinerary.

The Charm of Gretna Green Awaits

While it may not be London's bustling King's Cross, Gretna Green station offers its own unique charm with historical significance and a peaceful setting. It stands as a fitting gateway for travelers keen to explore both historical intrigue and the diverse landscapes of England and Scotland. Its straightforward, no-frills approach is part of what makes traveling from here a pleasant experience. For those wishing to visit this historical nook, considering all travel options from Gretna Green to popular destinations like Manchester and Birmingham is as easy as a few clicks on an online ticket service.

In conclusion, Gretna Green station might be modest in structure, but it provides travelers with ample opportunities to delve into its romantic folklore while easily reaching some of the UK’s most vibrant cities. Whether you're lingering in the area or seeking broader horizons, there's a route from Gretna Green ready to whisk you away.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Manchester Piccadilly