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Trains from Preston (Lancs) to
St Mary Cray

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Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray by train

Planning a train journey from Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 2 mins, covering approximately 201 miles (324 kilometres). With roughly 28 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 £43.50, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray Key Stats

Arrival Station

St Mary Cray

Departure Station

Preston (Lancs)

Frequency

28trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 17 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:33 / 23:27

Distance

201miles
(324 km)

5 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£43.50

Travelling from Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 2 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Preston (Lancs), the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 17 mins. With approximately 28 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 201-mile (324 km) route usually requires just one change, with Thameslink, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, 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 £43.50, 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 St Mary Cray!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Preston (Lancs) and St Mary Cray

Curious about your trip from Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray? 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 St Mary Cray by train?

The travel time between Preston (Lancs) and St Mary Cray by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 2 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 17 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray is 3hrs 17 mins.

How much does the train from Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray cost?

Train ticket prices from Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray can start from as little as £43.50 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 St Mary Cray?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Preston (Lancs) and St Mary Cray vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 28 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:27.

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

First class tickets on trains between Preston (Lancs) and St Mary Cray 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 St Mary Cray?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Preston (Lancs) & St Mary Cray. However, there are 28 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray?

Thameslink, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains and Southeastern are the main train operating companies running services between Preston (Lancs) and St Mary Cray.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Preston (Lancs) and St Mary Cray?

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

When are Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray on Wednesday 7th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Wednesday 7th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
17:18 Preston (Lancs)21:10 St Mary Cray3 changesCrewe
London Euston
London Victoria
3 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
17:59 Preston (Lancs)21:31 St Mary Cray3 changesLondon Euston
London Victoria
Bromley South
3 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
19:07 Preston (Lancs)22:48 St Mary Cray2 changesLondon Euston
London Victoria
3 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
20:01 Preston (Lancs)23:48 St Mary Cray2 changesLondon Euston
London Victoria
3 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
20:59 Preston (Lancs)01:07 St Mary Cray3 changesLondon Euston
London Victoria
Bromley South
4 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
21:18 Preston (Lancs)06:01 St Mary Cray2 changesLondon Euston
London Blackfriars
8 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
22:39 Preston (Lancs)08:48 St Mary Cray3 changesCrewe
London Euston
London Victoria
10 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Preston (Lancs) to St Mary Cray 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 St Mary Cray start from as little as £43.50

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 St Mary Cray start from £87.30 one way, or £124.80 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 St Mary Cray are available for £206.20 one way, or £412.40 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 St Mary Cray Station

Exploring St Mary Cray Train Station

Discover the vibrant hub of St Mary Cray train station, perfectly situated to connect you with a plethora of destinations across the UK. Whether you're a regular commuter or a visitor exploring new routes, this station is a gateway to diverse travel experiences, offering modern facilities and excellent connectivity. Let's delve into what makes St Mary Cray station a vital part of London's transport landscape.

Facilities and Accessibility

St Mary Cray train station is equipped with essential amenities to ensure a seamless journey for travelers. The ticket office is open from early morning until late evening on weekdays and Saturdays and slightly shorter hours on Sundays, ensuring you can purchase or collect tickets conveniently. With accessible ticket machines and induction loops in place, the station caters to all passenger needs.

The station offers step-free access throughout, making it an excellent choice for passengers with mobility challenges. While there are no waiting rooms, it does provide seating areas to ensure comfort while you wait for your train. However, it's good to note that there are no accessible toilets, but standard ones are available on Platforms 1 and 2 during staffing hours.

Travel Connections

St Mary Cray's connection with other transport modes ensures that you can continue your journey with little hassle. The rail replacement services are well organized with stops at designated bus stops in Chipperfield Road for destinations such as Bromley South and Swanley, identified conveniently through the What 3 Words locations.

Although there are no direct cycle storage facilities or hire options, the station's strategic position allows for easy integration with local transport services to take you to a range of places. For detailed information on local buses and travel connections, resources are available to aid in planning your perfect onward journey.

Popular Travel Routes

From St Mary Cray station, the world is your oyster with popular train routes awaiting your exploration. Head to the bustling heart of London with trains to London Victoria or London Blackfriars. Fancy a trip to historic sites? Check out trains to Rochester. For those commuting to local areas, frequent routes like Bromley South and Swanley promise quick and efficient travel.

Additional Insight

While planning your travel, take advantage of the car parking facilities available 24/7, offering affordable rates and monitored by CCTV for security. The station does not currently offer Wi-Fi or dining facilities, so it's best to plan these needs in advance of your journey.

Smooth and Seamless Travel

Overall, St Mary Cray train station ensures a reliable and smooth transition into the UK's expansive rail network. With strategically placed help points and assistance available for those who need it, the station is designed to cater to all traveler needs, allowing you to focus on reaching your destination with ease. So whether you're setting out for a business meeting or a day of leisure, St Mary Cray is your starting point for a great travel experience.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Preston (Lancs)