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Trains from Preston (Lancs) to
London Charing Cross

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Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross by train

Planning a train journey from Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross? The trip usually takes about 9hrs 7 mins, covering approximately 189 miles (305 kilometres). With roughly 2 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 £31.50, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross Key Stats

Arrival Station

London Charing Cross

Departure Station

Preston (Lancs)

Frequency

2trains
per day

Journey Time

from8hrs 21 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

22:14 / 00:43

Distance

189miles
(305 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.50

Travelling from Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 9hrs 7 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Preston (Lancs), the quickest trains can get you there in just 8hrs 21 mins. With approximately 2 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 189-mile (305 km) route usually requires just one change, with West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail 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 £31.50, 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 London Charing Cross!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Preston (Lancs) and London Charing Cross

Curious about your trip from Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross? 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 London Charing Cross by train?

The travel time between Preston (Lancs) and London Charing Cross by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 9hrs 7 mins & the fastest journey takes 8hrs 21 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross is 8hrs 21 mins.

How much does the train from Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross cost?

Train ticket prices from Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross can start from as little as £31.50 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 London Charing Cross?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Preston (Lancs) and London Charing Cross vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 2 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 22:14, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:43.

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

First class tickets on trains between Preston (Lancs) and London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Preston (Lancs) & London Charing Cross. However, there are 2 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross?

West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Preston (Lancs) and London Charing Cross.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Preston (Lancs) and London Charing Cross?

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

When are Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross on Tuesday 29th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 29th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:00 Preston (Lancs)09:13 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
3 hrs 13 mins Get Tickets
06:28 Preston (Lancs)09:45 London Charing Cross2 changesWigan North Western
London Euston
3 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
06:58 Preston (Lancs)09:50 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
07:18 Preston (Lancs)10:36 London Charing Cross2 changesCrewe
London Euston
3 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
08:01 Preston (Lancs)10:45 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
08:17 Preston (Lancs)11:36 London Charing Cross2 changesCrewe
London Euston
3 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
09:01 Preston (Lancs)11:45 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
09:18 Preston (Lancs)12:37 London Charing Cross2 changesCrewe
London Euston
3 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
10:01 Preston (Lancs)12:46 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
10:18 Preston (Lancs)13:36 London Charing Cross2 changesCrewe
London Euston
3 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
11:00 Preston (Lancs)13:45 London Charing Cross1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
11:18 Preston (Lancs)14:36 London Charing Cross2 changesCrewe
London Euston
3 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Preston (Lancs) to London Charing Cross 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 London Charing Cross start from as little as £31.50

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 London Charing Cross start from £81.20 one way, or £116.10 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 London Charing Cross are available for £189.30 one way, or £378.60 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 London Charing Cross Station

An Overview of London Charing Cross Train Station

London Charing Cross is not just a train station; it's a gateway to an exciting exploration of the UK, conveniently nestled in the heart of London's bustling atmosphere. Serving as a vibrant hub to many popular destinations, this station intertwines historical charm with modern amenities to make travel as effortless as possible.

Station Facilities and Services

Charing Cross station provides a range of facilities designed to make your journey as smooth and accessible as possible. For starters, the ticket office is open every day of the week, and ticket machines are available round the clock, allowing for seamless ticket purchases and collections. The station ensures accessibility with step-free access throughout and wheelchair assistance. You can find accessible toilets and induction loops installed at various points for those who are hearing impaired.

Waiting times at Charing Cross are comfortable with partially or fully covered canopies stretching across platforms, though there is no dedicated first-class lounge or seating area. For dining and retail therapy, the main concourse offers refreshment facilities, shops, and ATM machines, although a currency exchange service isn’t available on-site.

Transport Connections

Reaching your next destination from London Charing Cross is a breeze, thanks to the numerous transport links available. A 24-hour taxi rank is located just outside the station's main entrance. Things get even more convenient with buses operating on The Strand. For those preferring to navigate the city below ground, both the Bakerloo and Northern lines are accessible from Charing Cross.

Should you want to embrace some pedal power, Santander hire cycles are located near the station. Details are available here.

Popular Routes from Charing Cross

Charing Cross isn't just about local commutes; it’s a launchpad for venturing into a plethora of fantastic destinations. If you're heading to iconic sites, consider a short trip from London Bridge, or for a scenic journey, you can opt for Tunbridge Wells. Whether you’re commuting to Sevenoaks or visiting historical towns like Tonbridge, the options are plentiful!

Embracing Rail Travel

For train enthusiasts and city explorers alike, London Charing Cross offers a robust start or end to any journey. With its central location, extensive facilities, and direct links to further destinations, it stands as one of London's steadfast pillars of railway travel. Whether you're a commuter, a tourist, or even just someone needing a day out, Charing Cross should certainly mark its place on your travel map.

So, why wait? Embark on a journey today and experience the ease of booking and traveling through London Charing Cross. Whether it’s the excitement of bustling city life or a serene escape, the possibilities await right from your train seat.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Preston (Lancs)