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Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to
London Waterloo

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Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 6 mins, covering approximately 162 miles (262 kilometres). With roughly 53 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 Waterloo Key Stats

Arrival Station

London Waterloo

Departure Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Frequency

53trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 41 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:05 / 01:26

Distance

162miles
(262 km)

8 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 6 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Piccadilly, the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 41 mins. With approximately 53 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 162-mile (262 km) route usually requires just one change, with First TransPennine Express, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, East Midlands 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 Waterloo!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Piccadilly and London Waterloo

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

The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and London Waterloo by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 6 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 41 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo is 2hrs 41 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo 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 Waterloo?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Piccadilly and London Waterloo vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 53 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 London Waterloo?

First class tickets on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and London Waterloo 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 Waterloo?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Manchester Piccadilly & London Waterloo. However, there are 53 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo?

First TransPennine Express, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales and East Midlands Railway are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Piccadilly and London Waterloo.

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

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

When are Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo on Thursday 12th June 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 12th June
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
22:30 Manchester Piccadilly07:47 London Waterloo2 changesNottingham
London St Pancras International
9 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
23:52 Manchester Piccadilly07:55 London Waterloo2 changesSheffield
London St Pancras International
8 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to London Waterloo is £0.00 & the average saving on this route is £0.00!

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 Waterloo Station

London Waterloo Train Station: A Hub of Vibrancy and Connectivity

Nestled in the heart of London, Waterloo Station stands as a bustling epicenter for commuters and travelers alike, serving as the beating heart of UK's rail network. From the breath-taking grandeur of its architecture to its vibrant hustle and bustle, it's a place where the world feels like it's at your fingertips. Beyond the picturesque platforms, London Waterloo isn't just about catching a train; it's an experience that embraces convenience, accessibility, and variety.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo

London Waterloo Station is replete with facilities designed to make your journey smooth and hassle-free. Its ticket office operates from 5:30 AM to 11:15 PM during weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly adjusted times on Sundays. For those who prefer to plan their travels in advance, ticket machines are available on the main concourse, making online ticket collection straightforward and accessible. Moreover, there's an induction loop system making communication easy for the hearing impaired.

Accessibility is one of the key strengths of Waterloo Station, with step-free access available throughout. The station is ably equipped to cater to the needs of all passengers, featuring accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and seating areas to ensure comfort. Help points, dedicated staff assistance, and an extensive customer service offering guarantee that you’re never without support.

Shopping, Dining, and More

Beyond travel, the station's main concourse presents a generous selection of shopping and dining options. From seated dining experiences to convenient takeaways, the station has every palate covered. A mix of shops, including a pharmacy, clothing stores, and more, ensure that whatever last-minute essentials you may need, you’ll find them on hand.

Getting to and From Waterloo: Transport Options

Moving beyond the platforms, London Waterloo Station acts as a dynamic node connecting you with London and beyond. With a dedicated taxi rank and a close-knit relationship with London's extensive bus and Underground services, getting around is both straightforward and efficient. Waterloo Underground station is served by several lines, including the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines making your planning effortless.

For those looking to explore the city on two wheels, Santander Cycle hire bikes are available nearby. The station's proximity to the South Bank makes it an inviting starting point for a leisurely stroll or cycle along the riverside for a touch of culture and picturesque views.

Destinations to Explore from London Waterloo

If you're planning a journey, London Waterloo connects you with an array of popular destinations. Whether it’s a quick trip to nearby Clapham Junction, a family day out to Wimbledon, or a scenic journey further afield to Southampton Central, the station offers a gateway to adventure.

The list of travel options is extensive, with trips to Guildford, Richmond, and Basingstoke providing just a glimpse of the destinations accessible from Waterloo.

Conclusion: Beyond the Commute

London Waterloo isn’t just a station; it’s a launchpad for discovery and experience. Whether you're on a daily commute or embarking on a new journey, the station's unparalleled facilities and connectivity ensure that every trip is a pleasure. As you step into this vibrant hub, you become part of a tradition of travel and exploration, stretching back over a century and continuing to evolve with the city around it.

So, whether you are buying tickets online or from the station, you can be assured of a seamless experience at London Waterloo. It’s not just where journeys end and begin, but where memories are made and adventures are born. Come, explore; the world from London Waterloo awaits you!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Manchester Piccadilly