This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from St Mary Cray to
Preston (Lancs)

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs) by train

Considering a train trip from St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs)? The journey typically lasts around 3hrs 55 mins and spans about 201 miles (324 kilometres). With approximately 26 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 £43.50, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

St Mary Cray

Frequency

26trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 16 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:09 / 00:21

Distance

201miles
(324 km)

4 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£43.50

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

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

The typical travel time is about 3hrs 55 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 16 mins. With approximately 26 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 201 miles (324 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Southeastern, Thameslink, 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 £43.50, 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 St Mary Cray and Preston (Lancs)

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

The travel time between St Mary Cray and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 55 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 16 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs) is 3hrs 16 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs) 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 St Mary Cray and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between St Mary Cray and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 26 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:09, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:21.

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

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

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from St Mary Cray 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 St Mary Cray 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 St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs)?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between St Mary Cray & Preston (Lancs). However, there are 26 possible journeys which require a change.

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

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

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

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

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

Check out the upcoming trains from St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs) on Tuesday 1st July 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 1st July
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
07:53 St Mary Cray11:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
08:01 St Mary Cray11:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesSwanley
London Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
09:23 St Mary Cray12:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesBromley South
London Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
10:09 St Mary Cray13:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
10:15 St Mary Cray13:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesBromley South
London Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
11:10 St Mary Cray14:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
11:15 St Mary Cray14:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesBromley South
London Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
12:09 St Mary Cray15:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
12:15 St Mary Cray15:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesBromley South
London Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
13:09 St Mary Cray16:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
13:15 St Mary Cray16:39 Preston (Lancs)3 changesBromley South
London Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
14:09 St Mary Cray17:39 Preston (Lancs)2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for St Mary Cray 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.

Advance fares from St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs) 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 St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs) 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 St Mary Cray to Preston (Lancs) 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 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.

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 St Mary Cray