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Trains from Preston (Lancs) to
Ilkley

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Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley by train

Planning a train journey from Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley? The trip usually takes about 2hrs 52 mins, covering approximately 37 miles (61 kilometres). With roughly 64 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 £26.10, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley Key Stats

Arrival Station

Ilkley

Departure Station

Preston (Lancs)

Frequency

64trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 32 mins

Changes

1-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:44 / 00:03

Distance

37miles
(61 km)

8 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£26.10

Travelling from Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 2hrs 52 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Preston (Lancs), the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 32 mins. With approximately 64 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 37-mile (61 km) route usually requires just one change, with Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast 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 £26.10, 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 Ilkley!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Preston (Lancs) and Ilkley

Curious about your trip from Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley? 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 Ilkley by train?

The travel time between Preston (Lancs) and Ilkley by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 52 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 32 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley is 2hrs 32 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley can start from as little as £26.10 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 Ilkley?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Preston (Lancs) and Ilkley vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 64 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:44, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:03.

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

First class tickets on trains between Preston (Lancs) and Ilkley 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 Ilkley?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley 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 Ilkley. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Ilkley, 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 Ilkley?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Preston (Lancs) & Ilkley. However, there are 64 possible journeys which require a change.

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

Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Preston (Lancs) and Ilkley.

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

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

When are Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley on Thursday 31st July 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 31st July
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
17:44 Preston (Lancs)20:17 Ilkley2 changesBradford Forster Square
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
17:44 Preston (Lancs)20:33 Ilkley1 changeLeeds
2 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
17:49 Preston (Lancs)20:33 Ilkley3 changesSalford Crescent
Manchester Victoria
Leeds
2 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
18:10 Preston (Lancs)21:01 Ilkley2 changesManchester Oxford Road
Leeds
2 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
18:44 Preston (Lancs)21:31 Ilkley1 changeLeeds
2 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
18:49 Preston (Lancs)21:31 Ilkley3 changesSalford Crescent
Manchester Victoria
Leeds
2 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
20:07 Preston (Lancs)22:47 Ilkley2 changesLancaster
Shipley (Yorks)
2 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
20:10 Preston (Lancs)23:01 Ilkley2 changesManchester Oxford Road
Leeds
2 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
20:44 Preston (Lancs)23:47 Ilkley2 changesBradford Forster Square
3 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
21:43 Preston (Lancs)00:04 Ilkley1 changeLeeds
2 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
23:49 Preston (Lancs)06:17 Ilkley3 changesManchester Piccadilly
Leeds
Shipley (Yorks)
6 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
23:55 Preston (Lancs)08:30 Ilkley2 changesKirkham & Wesham
Leeds
8 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley 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.

Off Peak fares from Preston (Lancs) to Ilkley start from £26.10 one way, or £26.20 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 Ilkley are available for £27.70 one way, or £31.20 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 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 Ilkley Station

Exploring Ilkley Train Station

Ilkley train station, nestled in the picturesque town of Ilkley, West Yorkshire, is a vital hub for those wishing to explore both local attractions and distant destinations. Known for its charming surroundings, Ilkley offers a delightful blend of nature and culture, making it an attractive starting point for any traveler. If you're looking to venture out, the station is your gateway to myriad adventures, whether you're commuting for work or seeking a weekend getaway.

Station Facilities and Accessibility

Ilkley station is equipped with several amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. The ticket office is open daily, with varying hours, providing both ticket machines and online ticket collection services. For those requiring accessibility support, the station boasts step-free access and accessible ticket machines, ensuring that everyone can navigate the station with ease. It’s a welcoming environment for all, with induction loops and wheelchair access, though you might want to plan ahead for facilities like toilets and waiting rooms, as these are somewhat limited.

For cyclists, there's secure bicycle storage with CCTV surveillance, and for drivers, a 24-hour car park managed by Northern, with both regular and accessible spaces. Although there’s no CCTV in the car park, the town of Ilkley and its community is generally considered safe and secure. The station also offers basic refreshment options, though it lacks an ATM and other shopping amenities, so plan accordingly before starting your journey.

Onward Travel Options

Beyond the station, Ilkley is well-connected with local transport options to facilitate your onward journey. A taxi stand is conveniently located outside the station, perfect for a quick departure. For bus travel, you can catch services from the adjacent bus interchange, offering routes throughout the region. While bicycle hire isn’t available directly at the station, exploring Ilkley and its surrounding areas by bike is still a popular choice, given the town's beautiful landscapes and cycling-friendly roads.

Popular Travel Routes from Ilkley

Ilkley’s railway links make it a fantastic base for exploring both bustling cities and tranquil towns. Engage in a short trip with trains from Ilkley to Leeds or plan a soothing visit to the serene village of Burley-In-Wharfedale. Interested in more urban adventures? You can reach Manchester Piccadilly directly for a taste of vibrant city life. For those heading further afield, consider journeys such as Ilkley to York for a day steeped in history or Ilkley to London Kings Cross to experience the capital.

Whatever your destination, booking your train tickets through reliable services ensures a seamless experience. Opt for railcards where applicable to make your journey more economical, whether you’re traveling as a group, senior, or student. Ready for a breath of fresh Yorkshire air, or eager for a bustling city adventure? Let Ilkley station be the start of your journey!

Ilkley station is not just a transit point; it's a leap into a journey that promises experiences rich with history, culture, and breathtaking vistas. Whether you're on a brief commute or an adventurous expedition, the ease and connectivity offered at Ilkley train station are sure to make your travel plans a breeze. Enjoy the freedom that train travel brings, and let your journey from Ilkley unfold with opportunities to explore the best of what the UK has to offer. Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Preston (Lancs)