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Trains from Stansted Airport to
Manchester Stations

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Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations by train

Considering a train trip from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations? The journey typically lasts around 3hrs 48 mins and spans about 152 miles (244 kilometres). With approximately 46 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 £19.60, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Stations

Departure Station

Stansted Airport

Frequency

46trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 29 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:30 / 00:49

Distance

152miles
(244 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£19.60

Travelling from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations by Train

Embark on a train journey from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 3hrs 48 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 29 mins. With approximately 46 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 152 miles (244 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Abellio Greater Anglia 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 £19.60, 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 Manchester Stations!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations

Curious about your trip from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations? 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 Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations by train?

The travel time between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 48 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 29 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations is 3hrs 29 mins.

How much does the train from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations cost?

Train ticket prices from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations can start from as little as £19.60 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 Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 46 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:30, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:49.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations?

First class tickets on trains between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations?

Amenities on trains between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Stations, 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 Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Stansted Airport & Manchester Stations. However, there are 46 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations?

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry and Abellio Greater Anglia are the main train operating companies running services between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Stansted Airport and Manchester Stations, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations on Tuesday 6th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 6th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
20:15 Stansted Airport23:48 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesTottenham Hale
London Euston
3 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
20:27 Stansted Airport00:49 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeNuneaton
4 hrs 22 mins Get Tickets
20:30 Stansted Airport00:49 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesTottenham Hale
London Euston
4 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
23:59 Stansted Airport08:25 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
8 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations 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 Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations start from as little as £19.60

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 Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations start from £90.70 one way, or £115.10 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 Stansted Airport to Manchester Stations are available for £101.90 one way, or £147.30 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 Stansted Airport Station

Explore Stansted Airport Train Station: Gateway to Your Adventures

Stansted Airport train station is not just a transit point; it's an integral part of the travel experience for those flying into or out of one of London's bustling airports. With its seamless blend of convenience and connectivity, this station serves as a crucial link, bringing together rail services with air travel.

Facilities and Innovations at Stansted Airport Station

Open every day from 06:30 to 00:00, the ticket office at Stansted Airport train station ensures that you're all set for your journey, whether it's purchasing tickets or collecting pre-booked ones. Ticket machines are available for quick access, and you can also enjoy the option of smartcard issuance – though, mentionable, there are no smartcard validators on-site.

In terms of accessibility, the station prides itself on being a category A access point, offering step-free access throughout. Lifts are available, and there are accessible toilets and seating areas for passengers with reduced mobility. Unfortunately, while wheelchairs are available, the lack of accessible taxis and vehicle set-down points might require some advance planning for those needing additional assistance.

Onward Travel from Stansted Airport

Stansted Airport station offers various onward travel options seamlessly designed to cater to different passenger needs. Whether you're connecting to local buses and national coach routes, all services are conveniently located within the airport's bus station. For those preferring the direct rail services, the station itself is nestled within the Stansted Airport terminal, simplifying connections. Should you wish to explore further by car, car hire facilities can be found within the airport terminal.

Bus and National Express coach services further extend your travel options, providing connections to destinations all over the UK. Rail replacement services, when needed, are managed efficiently from the main coach station.

Popular Railway Routes from Stansted Airport

Journeying from Stansted Airport offers you more than just a path to London's heart; it's your ticket to a plethora of destinations waiting to be explored. Head directly to bustling hubs with frequent trains such as London Liverpool Street, or delve into academia and history with a ride to Cambridge. For those with business or leisure in their sights, traversing to places like Birmingham New Street or Nottingham becomes straightforward and hassle-free.

If plans call for local discoveries or short commutes, trips to Bishops Stortford and many more await at the platforms of Stansted Airport station.

Concluding Your Experience at Stansted Airport Station

Every traveller’s needs can find solace at Stansted Airport train station. Be it tickets ready at the click of a button, refreshments at the stations’ coffee shops, or connecting seamlessly from planes to trains. This station excels at weaving an easygoing travel journey. Make it your starting point for explorations and, with accessible offerings and numerous destinations, your hub for adventures yet not planned.

For efficient ticket booking, be it advance or spontaneous, countless online platforms are available. Get your train travel mapped out with ease, ensure your journey is smooth, and let Stansted Airport train station be the gateway to your next memorable journey.

Manchester Stations

The following stations are part of this group. Click a station for more information.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Stansted Airport