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Trains from Watford Junction to
Manchester Stations

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Watford Junction to Manchester Stations by train

Considering a train trip from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations? The journey typically lasts around 2hrs 59 mins and spans about 147 miles (237 kilometres). With approximately 35 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 £34.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Watford Junction to Manchester Stations Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Stations

Departure Station

Watford Junction

Frequency

35trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 4 mins

Changes

01 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:48 / 00:12

Distance

147miles
(237 km)

5 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 2hrs 59 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 4 mins. With approximately 35 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 147 miles (237 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Northern Rail, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, 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 £34.00, 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 Watford Junction and Manchester Stations

Curious about your trip from Watford Junction 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 Watford Junction and Manchester Stations by train?

The travel time between Watford Junction and Manchester Stations by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 59 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 4 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Watford Junction and Manchester Stations by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations is 2hrs 4 mins.

How much does the train from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations cost?

Train ticket prices from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations can start from as little as £34.00 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 Watford Junction and Manchester Stations?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Watford Junction and Manchester Stations vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 35 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:48, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:12.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Watford Junction and Manchester Stations?

First class tickets on trains between Watford Junction 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 Watford Junction and Manchester Stations?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Watford Junction 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 Watford Junction 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 Watford Junction to Manchester Stations?

Yes! There are usually around 1 direct services per day from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations

What train companies run services from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations?

Northern Rail, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Watford Junction and Manchester Stations.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Watford Junction and Manchester Stations?

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

When are Watford Junction to Manchester Stations Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:48 Watford Junction08:18 Manchester Victoria1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
2 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
06:31 Watford Junction08:45 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
07:01 Watford Junction09:05 Manchester PiccadillyDirect2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
07:38 Watford Junction10:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
07:48 Watford Junction10:44 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
08:38 Watford Junction11:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
08:46 Watford Junction11:44 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 58 mins Get Tickets
09:38 Watford Junction12:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
09:46 Watford Junction12:44 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 58 mins Get Tickets
10:38 Watford Junction13:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
10:45 Watford Junction13:44 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
11:38 Watford Junction14:05 Manchester Piccadilly1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Watford Junction 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 Watford Junction to Manchester Stations start from as little as £34.00

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 Watford Junction to Manchester Stations start from £76.30 one way, or £109.00 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 Watford Junction to Manchester Stations are available for £184.70 one way, or £369.40 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Watford Junction to Manchester Stations is £21.80 & the average saving on this route is £11.40!

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 Watford Junction Station

Welcome to Watford Junction: Your Gateway to Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire, Watford Junction is much more than a train station—it's a hive of connectivity and convenience that's ready to whisk you away to your next destination. As one of the busiest stations in the UK, it serves as a crucial hub for both local commuters and long-distance travelers. Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, understanding what Watford Junction has to offer can enhance your travel experience. Let's dive into its many features, facilities, and links to exciting destinations.

Facilities at Watford Junction: Meeting Every Need

Watford Junction is designed with the traveler in mind, offering a host of facilities to ensure a seamless journey. The ticket office is operational from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM every day except Sunday when it opens at 6:30 AM—ideal for early risers and night owls alike. If you've purchased tickets online, you can conveniently collect them at the ticket machines located in the booking hall. For those requiring assistance, an induction loop is available, enhancing accessibility for travelers with hearing aids.

Step-free access throughout the station ensures it is user-friendly for all, including individuals with reduced mobility. Accessible toilets operated with a RADAR key are available, and assistance can be booked in advance for anyone needing extra help. For those using wheeled transport, ramps are available for train access, and there's a dedicated area with 19 accessible parking spaces in the car park.

Shopping and Refreshment Options

As you await your train, enjoy a variety of refreshment facilities available on-site. Grab a quick bite or a cup of coffee from one of the shops, and find an ATM machine for any last-minute cash needs. Although there is no public Wi-Fi, the fully stocked amenities ensure a comfortable wait. Unfortunately, there is no waiting room service, but seating areas are available.

Travel Connections at Watford Junction

One of the key attributes of Watford Junction is its extensive transport links. Should your journey require bus services, rail replacement buses operate from Bus Stop 1, and detailed onward travel information can be printed from available resources. There's even a direct bus connection to Heathrow Airport, making international travel hassle-free. Taxis and car hire services are readily accessible, ensuring you have multiple travel options at your disposal.

Popular Routes: Discover New Horizons

Venturing from Watford Junction is incredibly straightforward with an array of popular travel routes. Why not catch a train to the bustling heart of London and explore iconic sites by heading to London Euston? For a more localized experience, consider traveling to Harrow and Wealdstone or the lively Wembley Central. Dreaming of cultural hubs beyond the city? Take a ride over to Birmingham New Street, the gateway to the Midlands.

From local connections like Hemel Hempstead to grand journeys to Milton Keynes Central, Watford Junction is your starting point for adventure.

Stepping Into the Future

With its strategic location and impressive array of facilities and links, Watford Junction is not just a railway station—it's a community cornerstone and a starting point for so many adventures. Plan your next journey with confidence, knowing you're backed by robust services and extensive travel options. Whether your heart is set on the vibrancy of London or the picturesque countryside, Watford Junction gets you there efficiently. As with any travel plans, booking in advance can often secure the best ticket prices, and the convenience of digital tickets means you can board with ease.

So why wait? Embrace the possibilities with Watford Junction as your trusted guide. Safe travels!

Manchester Stations

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

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Popular places to travel by train from Watford Junction