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Trains from Preston (Lancs) to
Folkestone Central

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Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central by train

Planning a train journey from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 59 mins, covering approximately 246 miles (397 kilometres). With roughly 19 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 £49.50, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Folkestone Central

Departure Station

Preston (Lancs)

Frequency

19trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 48 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:33 / 00:41

Distance

246miles
(397 km)

4 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£49.50

Travelling from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central by Train

Jump on a Train from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

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

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 59 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Preston (Lancs), the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 48 mins. With approximately 19 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 246-mile (397 km) route usually requires just one change, with Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast, Southeastern 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 £49.50, 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 Folkestone Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central

Curious about your trip from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central? 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 Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central by train?

The travel time between Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 59 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 48 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central is 3hrs 48 mins.

How much does the train from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central can start from as little as £49.50 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 Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 19 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:41.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Preston (Lancs) & Folkestone Central. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central?

Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast and Southeastern are the main train operating companies running services between Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Preston (Lancs) and Folkestone Central?

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

When are Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central on Tuesday 10th June 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 10th June
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
12:59 Preston (Lancs)17:02 Folkestone Central2 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
14:00 Preston (Lancs)18:04 Folkestone Central2 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
15:00 Preston (Lancs)18:48 Folkestone Central3 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
Ashford International
3 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
15:59 Preston (Lancs)20:03 Folkestone Central2 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
16:59 Preston (Lancs)21:02 Folkestone Central2 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
17:58 Preston (Lancs)22:02 Folkestone Central2 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
19:07 Preston (Lancs)23:02 Folkestone Central2 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
20:01 Preston (Lancs)00:02 Folkestone Central2 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
21:18 Preston (Lancs)08:02 Folkestone Central2 changesLondon Euston
London St Pancras International
10 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
23:49 Preston (Lancs)10:02 Folkestone Central3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London St Pancras International
10 hrs 13 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central 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 Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central start from as little as £49.50

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 Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central start from £106.80 one way, or £152.70 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 Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central are available for £236.50 one way, or £473.00 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 Preston (Lancs) to Folkestone Central is £87.20 & the average saving on this route is £87.20!

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 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.

Everything you need to know about Folkestone Central Station

Welcome to Folkestone Central Station

Nestled in the picturesque county of Kent, Folkestone Central train station serves as a vital hub for travelers heading towards the scenic coastline or venturing further afield. Whether you're setting off for a day at the beach, exploring the captivating landscapes of southeast England, or embarking on a journey to bustling London, Folkestone Central provides convenient and reliable services. Let's delve into the array of amenities that ensure your journey from Folkestone is both comfortable and efficient.

Facilities at Folkestone Central

Stepping into Folkestone Central, you're greeted by a welcoming environment that caters to all your travel necessities. For those purchasing or collecting tickets, the station boasts a ticket office open from Monday to Saturday, 6:00 to 19:00, and on Sundays from 8:10 to 17:40. Ticket machines are available for added convenience, with the capability to collect pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is a priority here, with an induction loop and accessible ticket machines located in the booking hall.

For individuals requiring assistance, there are customer help points and detailed staff support available. Travel information features through comprehensive departure screens and announcements, ensuring you are always updated with the latest schedule information. While luggage storage isn't available, you can rest easy knowing CCTV is in operation for enhanced security.

Passengers with mobility needs can navigate the station effortlessly thanks to step-free access across all platforms. Facilities such as accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and wheelchairs ensure a barrier-free environment. The station also offers four accessible parking spaces, although accessible car park equipment is not installed. Heated waiting rooms and adequate seating areas make waiting for your train a comfortable experience.

Travel Connections

Beyond rail services, Folkestone Central is well-connected by other modes of transport. If your journey continues by bus, you'll find information for onward travel plans and services easily accessible from the station. The rail replacement bus stop is conveniently located just beyond the station, details of which can be accessed through this link.

The station hosts a taxi rank at the front, ready to whisk you away to your next destination with little fuss. If you're planning routes either locally or further afield, various bus services also run near the station. More detailed information and printable timetables can be found here.

Popular Routes from Folkestone Central

When it comes to destinations, Folkestone Central opens up a world of possibilities. Direct trains to bustling hubs like London St Pancras International and London Bridge allow for swift access to the capital's numerous attractions. For international journeys, a quick hop to Ashford International connects you to Eurostar services.

Coastal escapes abound with trains to Dover Priory and Ramsgate. The historic city of Canterbury, known for its stunning cathedral, is also a short journey away. The station makes it easy to set off on adventures across Kent's enchanting countryside.

A Concluding Note on Folkestone Central

Folkestone Central isn't just a station; it's a gateway to countless experiences awaiting exploration. From leisure travelers to daily commuters, the station assures a smooth and accommodating travel experience. With various connections and travel conveniences, your journey from Folkestone Central could just be the start of your next great adventure. So, why not jump on board and see where the tracks might take you next?

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Preston (Lancs)