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Trains from Runcorn East to
Preston (Lancs)

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Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) by train

Considering a train trip from Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs)? The journey typically lasts around 2hrs 20 mins and spans about 29 miles (47 kilometres). With approximately 20 trains running each day, you're spoiled for choice when scheduling your travel. By booking your tickets in advance, you could secure fares starting from just £15.70, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

Runcorn East

Frequency

20trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 53 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:42 / 00:30

Distance

29miles
(47 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£15.70

Travelling from Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) by Train

Embark on a train journey from Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs), and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 2hrs 20 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 1hrs 53 mins. With approximately 20 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 29 miles (47 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Transport for Wales, Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast offer comfortable seating with plenty of room for your luggage.

Here's the best part: by booking your tickets in advance, you can snag fares starting from only £15.70, offering a substantial saving over buying tickets at the last minute. For even more savings, consider traveling during Off-Peak times or using a Railcard.

Ready to secure those budget-friendly tickets? Use our Journey Planner to discover the latest deals and keep your travel costs down. Dive into more travel tips below or consult our timetable for up-to-date train schedules. All aboard for Preston (Lancs)!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Runcorn East and Preston (Lancs)

Curious about your trip from Runcorn East 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 Runcorn East and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The travel time between Runcorn East and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 20 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 53 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) is 1hrs 53 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) can start from as little as £15.70 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 Runcorn East and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Runcorn East and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 20 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:42, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:30.

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

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

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Runcorn East 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 Runcorn East 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 Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs)?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Runcorn East & Preston (Lancs). However, there are 20 possible journeys which require a change.

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

Transport for Wales, Northern Rail and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Runcorn East and Preston (Lancs).

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

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

When are Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) 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
15:11 Runcorn East15:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
40 mins Get Tickets
16:11 Runcorn East16:50 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
39 mins Get Tickets
17:10 Runcorn East17:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
41 mins Get Tickets
17:40 Runcorn East18:39 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
59 mins Get Tickets
18:11 Runcorn East18:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
40 mins Get Tickets
18:40 Runcorn East19:35 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
55 mins Get Tickets
19:11 Runcorn East19:52 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
41 mins Get Tickets
19:25 Runcorn East20:39 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
1 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
20:11 Runcorn East20:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
40 mins Get Tickets
21:11 Runcorn East22:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeManchester Oxford Road
1 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
22:32 Runcorn East23:53 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
1 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
23:45 Runcorn East06:32 Preston (Lancs)2 changesChester
Manchester Oxford Road
6 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Runcorn East 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.

Off Peak fares from Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) start from £22.10 one way, or £16.10 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 Runcorn East to Preston (Lancs) are available for £15.70 one way, or £19.00 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 Runcorn East Station

Welcome to Runcorn East Train Station

Runcorn East train station is a welcoming hub in the northwest of England, ideally positioned to serve commuters and leisure travelers alike. Nestled in Cheshire, it caters to a wide variety of routes that connect you to other bustling cities and scenic locales, making it a pivotal station for both frequent travelers and those venturing out for a leisurely day trip.

Facilities and Amenities

The station is equipped with several essential amenities designed to enhance your travel experience. The ticket facilities include an office open from Monday to Saturday, typically operating from morning until early afternoon. For those looking for flexibility in ticket collection, there are automated machines available too. However, note that these machines do not accept cash, accepting major debit and credit cards only.

Accessibility is a priority at Runcorn East. While certain areas offer step-free access, do bear in mind that transitions between platforms require the use of a footbridge. Unfortunately, there are no waiting rooms or refreshment facilities, so travelers might plan their visit accordingly. The station compensates with helpful staff and numerous screens detailing arrivals and departures, ensuring you’re always informed about your travel plans.

Getting Around: Travel Connections

Runcorn East serves as a gateway to a multitude of onward travel options. The station offers convenient access to local bus services, perfect for connecting with regional destinations. If you're transitioning from rail to bus, access is straightforward with stops located a short walk from the station. While there’s no bicycle hire facility, cyclists will find ample space dedicated to bicycle storage, protected with CCTV for added security.

If rail services are disrupted, a rail replacement bus stop ensures you can continue your journey with minimal hassle. Unfortunately, if you're relying on taxis or require accessible vehicles, options may be limited and advance arrangements are advisable.

Popular Routes and Destinations

With an array of popular routes, Runcorn East offers easy access to nearby cities and countryside escapes. If you're looking to explore vibrant urban centers, train services to Chester and Manchester (including Manchester Piccadilly, Oxford Road, and Victoria) are available. For those heading slightly further afield, connections to Leeds, Liverpool Lime Street, and Blackpool North offer exciting travel opportunities. Coastal enthusiasts will appreciate the routes to Rhyl and Llandudno, providing access to charming seaside towns.

Other significant routes include Warrington Bank Quay, Frodsham, and Wigan North Western, ensuring that wherever your travels may lead, Runcorn East can be your starting point.

Conclusion

Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, Runcorn East train station offers vital connections, robust facilities, and a friendly atmosphere. While the station may lack certain amenities, its strength lies in the simplicity and efficiency of its services. This reliably connects you to numerous destinations, bridging communities across the UK. So next time you're planning a journey, consider Runcorn East as your launching pad—it's ready to take you to your next adventure!

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 Runcorn East