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Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to
London Charing Cross

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Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 26 mins, covering approximately 162 miles (261 kilometres). With roughly 31 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.

Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross Key Stats

Arrival Station

London Charing Cross

Departure Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Frequency

31trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 1 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

02:42 / 02:17

Distance

162miles
(261 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 26 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Piccadilly, the quickest trains can get you there in just 4hrs 1 mins. With approximately 31 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 162-mile (261 km) route usually requires just one change, with East Midlands Railway, First TransPennine Express, London North Eastern 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 London Charing Cross!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross

Curious about your trip from Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross? 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 London Charing Cross by train?

The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 26 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 1 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross is 4hrs 1 mins.

How much does the train from Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross cost?

Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross 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 Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 31 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 02:42, and the last train of the day leaves at 02:17.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross?

First class tickets on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Manchester Piccadilly & London Charing Cross. However, there are 31 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross?

East Midlands Railway, First TransPennine Express and London North Eastern Railway are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Piccadilly and London Charing Cross?

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

When are Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross on Monday 28th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 28th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:55 Manchester Piccadilly08:48 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
06:15 Manchester Piccadilly09:03 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
06:24 Manchester Piccadilly09:14 London Charing Cross2 changesStoke-on-Trent
London Euston
2 hrs 50 mins Get Tickets
06:30 Manchester Piccadilly09:19 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
06:55 Manchester Piccadilly09:32 London Charing Cross2 changesStockport
London Euston
2 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
07:00 Manchester Piccadilly09:37 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
07:15 Manchester Piccadilly10:01 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
07:35 Manchester Piccadilly10:14 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
07:55 Manchester Piccadilly10:42 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
08:15 Manchester Piccadilly11:00 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
08:35 Manchester Piccadilly11:14 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
08:55 Manchester Piccadilly11:42 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross 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 Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross 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 Manchester Piccadilly to London Charing Cross 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 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 London Charing Cross Station

An Overview of London Charing Cross Train Station

London Charing Cross is not just a train station; it's a gateway to an exciting exploration of the UK, conveniently nestled in the heart of London's bustling atmosphere. Serving as a vibrant hub to many popular destinations, this station intertwines historical charm with modern amenities to make travel as effortless as possible.

Station Facilities and Services

Charing Cross station provides a range of facilities designed to make your journey as smooth and accessible as possible. For starters, the ticket office is open every day of the week, and ticket machines are available round the clock, allowing for seamless ticket purchases and collections. The station ensures accessibility with step-free access throughout and wheelchair assistance. You can find accessible toilets and induction loops installed at various points for those who are hearing impaired.

Waiting times at Charing Cross are comfortable with partially or fully covered canopies stretching across platforms, though there is no dedicated first-class lounge or seating area. For dining and retail therapy, the main concourse offers refreshment facilities, shops, and ATM machines, although a currency exchange service isn’t available on-site.

Transport Connections

Reaching your next destination from London Charing Cross is a breeze, thanks to the numerous transport links available. A 24-hour taxi rank is located just outside the station's main entrance. Things get even more convenient with buses operating on The Strand. For those preferring to navigate the city below ground, both the Bakerloo and Northern lines are accessible from Charing Cross.

Should you want to embrace some pedal power, Santander hire cycles are located near the station. Details are available here.

Popular Routes from Charing Cross

Charing Cross isn't just about local commutes; it’s a launchpad for venturing into a plethora of fantastic destinations. If you're heading to iconic sites, consider a short trip from London Bridge, or for a scenic journey, you can opt for Tunbridge Wells. Whether you’re commuting to Sevenoaks or visiting historical towns like Tonbridge, the options are plentiful!

Embracing Rail Travel

For train enthusiasts and city explorers alike, London Charing Cross offers a robust start or end to any journey. With its central location, extensive facilities, and direct links to further destinations, it stands as one of London's steadfast pillars of railway travel. Whether you're a commuter, a tourist, or even just someone needing a day out, Charing Cross should certainly mark its place on your travel map.

So, why wait? Embark on a journey today and experience the ease of booking and traveling through London Charing Cross. Whether it’s the excitement of bustling city life or a serene escape, the possibilities await right from your train seat.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Manchester Piccadilly