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Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to
Waterbeach

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Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 50 mins, covering approximately 131 miles (211 kilometres). With roughly 24 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 £19.60, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach Key Stats

Arrival Station

Waterbeach

Departure Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Frequency

24trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 53 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:30 / 02:17

Distance

131miles
(211 km)

4 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£19.60

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach by Train

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

Considering a train trip from Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach? 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 3hrs 53 mins. With approximately 24 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 131-mile (211 km) route usually requires just one change, with CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Great Northern, 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 £19.60, 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 Waterbeach!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Piccadilly and Waterbeach

Curious about your trip from Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach? 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 Waterbeach by train?

The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and Waterbeach 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 3hrs 53 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach is 3hrs 53 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach can start from as little as £19.60 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 Waterbeach?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Waterbeach vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 24 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:30, 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 Waterbeach?

First class tickets on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Waterbeach 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 Waterbeach?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Manchester Piccadilly & Waterbeach. However, there are 24 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach?

CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Great Northern and London North Eastern Railway are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Piccadilly and Waterbeach.

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

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

When are Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach on Thursday 1st May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 1st May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
01:05 Manchester Piccadilly08:46 Waterbeach2 changesYork
London Kings Cross
7 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
05:05 Manchester Piccadilly09:14 Waterbeach2 changesLondon Euston
London Kings Cross
4 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
06:15 Manchester Piccadilly10:14 Waterbeach2 changesLondon Euston
London Kings Cross
3 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
06:30 Manchester Piccadilly10:27 Waterbeach2 changesNuneaton
Ely
3 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
07:00 Manchester Piccadilly10:44 Waterbeach2 changesLondon Euston
London Kings Cross
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
07:15 Manchester Piccadilly11:14 Waterbeach2 changesLondon Euston
London Kings Cross
3 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
07:35 Manchester Piccadilly11:27 Waterbeach2 changesNuneaton
Ely
3 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
07:43 Manchester Piccadilly12:03 Waterbeach1 changeEly
4 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
08:15 Manchester Piccadilly12:12 Waterbeach2 changesLondon Euston
London Kings Cross
3 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
08:35 Manchester Piccadilly12:44 Waterbeach2 changesLondon Euston
London Kings Cross
4 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
08:43 Manchester Piccadilly13:03 Waterbeach1 changeEly
4 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
09:15 Manchester Piccadilly13:14 Waterbeach2 changesLondon Euston
London Kings Cross
3 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Piccadilly to Waterbeach 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 Waterbeach start from as little as £19.60

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 Waterbeach start from £94.90 one way, or £108.50 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 Waterbeach are available for £96.70 one way, or £139.20 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 Waterbeach Station

Welcome to Waterbeach Train Station

Nestled in the charming county of Cambridgeshire, Waterbeach train station serves as a convenient gateway for locals and visitors alike, eager to explore the surrounding areas or venture further afield. With its rich history and strategic location, this station is a popular choice for many commuters, travelers, and explorers. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer journey, understanding the facilities and services here can enhance your travel experience.

Station Facilities and Accessibility

Although Waterbeach train station is unstaffed, it offers a range of facilities to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Travelers can utilize ticket machines for purchasing tickets and collecting those bought online. The station accommodates passengers with mobility challenges, although step-free access is only partially available. Assistance can be pre-booked, and help points are stationed on the platforms around the clock.

While the station lacks a fully-equipped ticket office, the available machines are designed for accessibility and offer discounts with the Disabled Persons Railcard. For those looking to catch some rest before their train, unheated waiting shelters are available. Remember, there's ample parking with 82 spaces and four accessible spots, ensuring you can leave your vehicle behind with peace of mind.

Transport Links and Onward Travel

Being well-connected is vital for any train station, and Waterbeach excels in that department. Although it doesn’t offer local bus information directly, the 'Onward Travel Information Map' provides guidance for continued low-stress transit. In instances of rail service disruptions, a rail replacement service may be offered. For further travel flexibility, it’s helpful to know that there are no cycle hire facilities, though cyclists can safely store their bikes with ample stands available.

Popular Routes from Waterbeach

For those with wanderlust, Waterbeach station offers easy access to several alluring destinations. There are convenient trains from Waterbeach to Cambridge, perfect for a dose of academia and culture. Or perhaps the vibrant capital calls? Board a train to London Kings Cross for a day amidst the city's iconic sights.

If history in Ely entices you, or you need to catch a flight, consider a journey to Ely or head directly to Stansted Airport. From picturesque landscapes en route to Norwich to the architectural beauty of Audley End, Waterbeach station is your portal to adventure.

Final Thoughts

Waterbeach train station is more than just a pitstop—it's a gateway to new experiences and memorable journeys. Offering essential services and a diverse range of destinations, it caters to the everyday commuter and curious traveler alike. Keep these details in mind when planning your next rail trip, ensuring your journey is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Happy travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Manchester Piccadilly