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Trains from North Road (Darlington) to
Preston (Lancs)

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North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) by train

Planning a train journey from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs)? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 57 mins, covering approximately 71 miles (114 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 £79.80, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

North Road (Darlington)

Frequency

15trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 36 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

07:49 / 21:53

Distance

71miles
(114 km)

4 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£79.80

Travelling from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) by Train

Jump on a Train from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs)? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 57 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach North Road (Darlington), the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 36 mins. With approximately 15 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 71-mile (114 km) route usually requires just one change, with Northern Rail, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway, First TransPennine Express 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 £79.80, 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 Preston (Lancs)!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs)

Curious about your trip from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs)? 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 North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The travel time between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 57 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 36 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The fastest journey time by train from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) is 3hrs 36 mins.

How much does the train from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) cost?

Train ticket prices from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) can start from as little as £79.80 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 North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs) 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 07:49, and the last train of the day leaves at 21:53.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs)?

First class tickets on trains between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs) typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs)?

Amenities on trains between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs) can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs). On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Preston (Lancs), 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 North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs)?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between North Road (Darlington) & Preston (Lancs). However, there are 15 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs)?

Northern Rail, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway and First TransPennine Express are the main train operating companies running services between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs).

Can I bring luggage on board trains between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs)?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between North Road (Darlington) and Preston (Lancs), but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) on Tuesday 1st July 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 1st July
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
08:49 North Road (Darlington)12:25 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
09:49 North Road (Darlington)13:25 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
10:46 North Road (Darlington)14:25 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
11:49 North Road (Darlington)15:25 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
12:48 North Road (Darlington)16:25 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
13:49 North Road (Darlington)17:28 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
14:48 North Road (Darlington)18:28 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
15:49 North Road (Darlington)19:28 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
16:49 North Road (Darlington)20:25 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
17:49 North Road (Darlington)21:28 Preston (Lancs)3 changesDarlington
Manchester Victoria
Salford Crescent
3 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
18:49 North Road (Darlington)22:38 Preston (Lancs)2 changesDarlington
York
3 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
19:49 North Road (Darlington)23:38 Preston (Lancs)2 changesDarlington
York
3 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) 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.

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.

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 North Road (Darlington) to Preston (Lancs) are available for £79.80 one way, or £127.10 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 North Road (Darlington) Station

Welcome to North Road (Darlington) Train Station

Located in the vibrant heart of Darlington, North Road train station serves as a key access point to some of the most fascinating areas in the Northeast of England. While it might not be the largest or the busiest station in the UK, it holds its charm as a convenient hub for passengers traveling near and far. The station has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century when it was first opened to cater to the expanding network of steam railways that revolutionized travel across the nation.

Station Facilities and Amenities

When it comes to facilities, North Road (Darlington) may not offer the extensive list of amenities seen in larger stations, but it ensures passengers can travel with ease. The station is unstaffed, and there is no ticket office, but worry not, as ticket machines are readily available for collecting pre-booked tickets and purchasing on the day. These are also accessible to those with reduced mobility. For auditory assistance, an induction loop is in place.

Passengers should be mindful that the station lacks waiting rooms, seating areas, refreshment facilities, and public toilets. CCTV is in operation, providing an element of security within an otherwise modest setting.

Accessibility Considerations

North Road station is categorized as a Category C station, meaning it may not be suitable for all passengers with mobility impairments. There are no tactile pavements, and accessibility is dependent on steep steps or a stepped ramp at the station's entrances. No accessible taxis or set-down/pick-up points are available, so pre-arranged travel plans might be necessary. Nevertheless, the station maintains Customer Help Points on platforms for those needing assistance to board trains.

Transport Connections from North Road

While the station itself does not offer parking or bicycle storage facilities, it is well-connected in terms of local public transport. Those reliant on rail replacement services can find pickup and drop-off points just 150 yards from the railway bridge, while nearby bus stops serviced by local buses can widen travel options beyond railway routes. For convenient cab services, check out Northern Railway's taxi service options.

Popular Routes from North Road

Travelers departing from North Road have a range of destinations to choose from. Whether commuting to Middlesbrough for work through the undulating hills of northern England or heading for a leisurely visit to historical York, the opportunities are vast. Some popular routes include heading towards Middlesbrough, Durham, and further north to the buzzing city of Newcastle. Shorter journeys are also popular, such as to Darlington town center or the scenic locales like Saltburn on the coast.

Wrapping Up Your Travel Plans

As you plan your journey from North Road (Darlington), remember the unique appeal it offers as both a gateway to the region's rich historical backdrop and a stepping stone to the modern attractions and business centers in the north. Ensure that tickets are sorted ahead of time via online bookings for hassle-free collections at the station, ready for your travel adventure. Despite its minimal features, the station's strategic location, and the availability of frequent train services allow North Road to remain a vital part of the UK's extensive railway network.

Embrace the charm of train travel from North Road (Darlington) and let your journey begin!

Everything you need to know about Preston (Lancs) Station

Welcome to Preston (Lancs) Train Station

Whether you're setting off for a scenic trip through the UK, commuting for work, or heading to visit friends and family, Preston (Lancs) train station acts as a gateway to your journey. Situated in the vibrant heart of Lancashire, Preston station offers a comprehensive range of facilities that cater to your travel needs, making it a crucial hub for both local and long-distance travel.

The station is efficiently managed by Avanti West Coast and ensures a seamless experience for travelers, thanks to its extensive amenities and services that cater to millions of passengers each year. From ticketing to refreshments, everything is designed to make your travel as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Station Facilities & Amenities

Preston (Lancs) train station is well-equipped to handle the demands of modern travel. The ticket office is open from early morning until late at night, and with ticket machines available, it's convenient to purchase and collect your tickets, including those bought online. While smartcards aren't issued at the station, helpful staff are always available to assist you at help points, information points, and the ticket office itself.

Accessibility is a key strength of the station, with step-free access throughout, ramps for train access, and accessible ticket machines. Waiting rooms with automatic doors are located on platforms 3 and 4. Although there's no first-class lounge, seating and accessible toilets are available, providing a comfortable environment for everyone. CCTV coverage enhances the safety and security of the station premises.

For those needing to stay connected, the station provides accessible pay phones, although public Wi-Fi isn't available. Should you wish to explore local amenities or grab a quick refreshment, a selection of shops and eateries are conveniently located within the station.

Onward Travel Options

The station is a well-connected transport node that offers a variety of onward travel options. Taxis are readily accessible outside the station entrance, and a freephone service is available within the ticket office area to book them. Preston's local bus services also provide an efficient means of travel within and around the city, albeit with no Metro services available.

Should your journey require car hire, the nearest Eurocar branch is located approximately half a mile from the station. For the environmentally conscious or recreation-minded, a cycle hire is available from Leisure Lakes Bikes, offering a convenient bike shop adjacent to Platform 7. Additionally, the station allows easy pick-up and drop-off for Rail Replacement Services at the short-stay car park on Butler Street.

Popular Destinations from Preston

Preston station serves as a gateway to a plethora of bustling cities and tranquil towns across the UK. With direct routes to major cities like London Euston and Manchester Piccadilly, the station provides fast and frequent services that cater to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're heading off to the seaside charm of Blackpool North or the cultural richness of Edinburgh, you'll find the station's connections both comprehensive and convenient.

Don't forget, journeys to closer destinations like Liverpool Lime Street or Manchester Airport can be a breeze with excellent train services. Explore more rural settings such as Blackburn or plan your next adventure to vibrant Glasgow Central. Whatever your destination, Preston's connectivity ensures you're never too far from your next adventure.

Your Ticket to Exploring

Whether you're a seasoned commuter or an enthusiastic explorer, Preston (Lancs) train station opens the door to an exciting world of travel opportunities. It stands as a testament to Lancashire's vibrant rail history while seamlessly integrating modern conveniences for today's traveler.

As each train departs, the promise of discovering new places or reconnecting with loved ones begins. Make Preston (Lancs) your starting point for countless journeys, and don't hesitate to snag your travel tickets to make the most of your trip. With a wealth of connections and a rich tapestry of destinations at your disposal, there's no better time than now to explore the wonders that lie beyond Preston's tracks.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from North Road (Darlington)