Thinking of travelling from Manchester to London by train? The journey from Manchester to London train is iconic. While flights might seem tempting, Manchester to London trains offers an experience equal parts efficient and captivating.

Overview of train services

Two main train operators offer a high speed train from Manchester to London — Avanti West Coast and London North Eastern Railway (LNER).

Avanti West Coast

Operator details

Avanti West Coast is a UK-based train operator with service along the West Coast Main Line. A joint venture between Trenitalia and FirstGroup, it took over operations from Virgin Trains from Manchester to London in 2019 with a fast, recently-updated fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains. Speed demons and travel enthusiasts alike love Avanti West Coast for its refusal to compromise on pace and pampering. The train company has earned a solid reputation for its fast, reliable and luxurious train travel from Manchester to London.

Route

Avanti West Coast operates trains from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston. It takes the most direct route from Manchester Picadilla to London — straight down the middle of the country along the West Coast Main Line, passing through picturesque English countryside before terminating at London Euston Train Station.

Train features

Expect comfortable seating, ample legroom and complimentary Wi-Fi – essentials for both business travellers and leisure seekers. No need to interrupt life — stay linked to friends, tackle work tasks or binge your favourite shows.

Benefits

Travelling with Avanti West Coast ensures a blend of efficiency and comfort, letting you maximise your time and arrive refreshed in London.

London North Eastern Railway (LNER)

Operator details

​​Owned and operated by the UK government, London North Eastern Railway took over from Virgin Railways in 2018 as the primary train operator along the East Coast Main Line. In 2019 it introduced a sleek, modern fleet of Azuma trains for the comfort and convenience of passengers.

Route

The LNER route from Manchester to London uses the East Coast Mainline, which runs along the dramatic Northumbrian Coast in the North of England. Manchester being central, it doesn’t pass by the coast on its way South to London, it nevertheless traces a more easterly route through the middle of England. The terminus of this route is London King’s Cross Train Station.

Train features

Similar to Avanti, LNER trains are equipped with modern amenities, including power outlets and onboard Wi-Fi, to enhance your travel experience.

Benefits

With a focus on passenger comfort, their Manchester to London train journeys are a seamless blend of convenience and practicality.

Schedule details

Manchester to London train time and total distance

​​The fastest train from Manchester to London trains clocks in at 2 hours. The Manchester to London train distance is approximately 261 kilometres. While journeys of this length might seem daunting, these London trains make the time fly by. Trains plying this route have gone the extra mile to make the trip a pleasurable ride.

Earliest and latest departure times

The earliest London to Manchester train departs on weekdays at roughly 05:05 The last train from Manchester to London departs on weekdays at roughly 21:15.

The earliest London to Manchester train departs on weekends at roughly 05:25 The last train from Manchester to London departs on weekends at roughly 20:55.

Average number of daily trains

Between Avanti West Coast and LNER, approximately 50 trains depart Manchester Picadilly bound for either London Euston Station (Avanti) or London King’s Cross Station (LNER).

Frequency of departures

A London-bound train departs Manchester Picadilly roughly every 20 minutes.

Ticket information

Manchester to London train price

The Manchester to London train cost changes all the time based on the railway, popularity of the route, business of the season, advance notice, class of service and a variety of other factors. To give you an idea of what kind of prices you can expect at this time, we maintain these live pricing estimates based on how far in advance you book:

• Cheapest ticket on the route: US$36.00
• Average cost of a ticket on this route if you book 30 days in advance: US$53
• Average cost of a ticket on this route if you book 7 days in advance: US$64

Importance of booking in advance

Securing your Manchester to London train tickets in advance isn’t just suggested; it's a strategic move. You can score amazing deals by getting in on early-bird discounts and suddenly your dream trip becomes a financially sensible reality.

While it is often possible to buy last-minute train tickets from Manchester to London, even at the train station, don’t necessarily count on getting the best deal or the exact train you want. The safer bet is to book in advance. Trains can usually be booked up to 6 months in advance. You will usually find the best selection of price, seating, itineraries and class of service at least 30 days in advance.

If possible, try to book at least seven days in advance for the cheapest train tickets Manchester to London.

Train stations served

Both Avanti West Coast and LNER trains from Manchester to London depart from Manchester Picadilly Train Station. Avanti West Coast trains terminate in London Euston Train Station, while LNER trains terminate at London King’s Cross Train Station.

Manchester Picadilly

Once one of the oldest train stations in the country, Manchester Picadilly started its life as Store Street Station in 1842. It was quickly renamed Manchester London Road in 1847 before landing on its ultimate name in 1960. Manchester Piccadilly is more than a station — it's a bustling hub of connectivity for the city. Located right within the city centre, it serves as the heartbeat of the region's transportation network – a station that services 30 million passengers every year all over the UK and beyond.

Facilities and services

• Ticket counters
• Self-service ticket machines
• Waiting rooms
• Restrooms
• Baby changing facilities
• Accessibility services
• Left luggage services
• Bicycle parking
• Taxi rank
• Car parking
• Retail shops and cafes
• Restaurants and food outlets
• Free Wi-Fi
• Charging points
• Information desk
• Lost property office
• Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
• Currency exchange services
• ATM machines
• Public telephones
• Meeting rooms and conference facilities

London Euston

Situated in central London, Euston Train Station is a short distance from renowned landmarks. From its platforms, London Euston broadcasts the city's cosmopolitan spirit, where train lines converge and cultures blend. This modern train station serves over 30 million passengers every year.

Facilities and services

• Ticket counters
• Self-service ticket machines
• Waiting rooms
• Restrooms
• Baby changing facilities
• Accessibility services
• Left luggage services
• Bicycle parking
• Taxi rank
• Car parking
• Retail shops and cafes
• Restaurants and food outlets
• Free Wi-Fi
• Charging points
• Information desk
• Lost property office
• Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
• Currency exchange services
• ATM machines
• Public telephones
• First Class lounge
• Meeting rooms and conference facilities

London King’s Cross

You’ve read about it in the Harry Potter series, but it’s a real place — and just as magical. In fact, King’s Cross Station has embraced its heritage in the Potterverse with a “Platform 9 ¾” art exhibition — a trolly full of wizarding gear disappearing into the wall. Makes a great photo op! The station itself is known for its charming mix of classic and modernist style, with its distinctive glass half-barrel platform tunnel. Through this distinctive tunnel pass more than 20 million passengers every year.

Facilities and services

• Ticket counters
• Self-service ticket machines
• Waiting rooms
• Restrooms
• Baby changing facilities
• Accessibility services
• Left luggage services
• Bicycle parking
• Taxi rank Car parking
• Retail shops and cafes
• Restaurants and food outlets
• Free Wi-Fi
• Charging points
• Information desk
• Lost property office
• Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
• Currency exchange services
• ATM machines
• Public telephones
• First Class lounge
• Meeting rooms and conference facilities

Travelling with Avanti West Coast and LNER – boarding process

Boarding your Manchester to London train is designed to be straightforward, but familiarising yourself with the process in advance can help to streamline your travel day. Whether travelling with Avanti West Coast or LNER, similar procedures are followed to ensure the safety and security of all passengers.

Security and boarding procedures

Security checks are standard at most major train stations. Upon arrival at the station, be prepared to pass through security, which may include bag scans and personal belongings screening.

To expedite this process, have your train ticket readily available and follow the instructions of station personnel. Most importantly, if you're uncertain about an item or have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

Navigating the stations and boarding

Both Manchester Piccadilly and the London stations (Euston and King's Cross) boast excellent signage, ensuring easy navigation. Stay on schedule with digital display boards that flash the latest platform numbers in real-time. Be sure to check these boards regularly.

Once you’ve located your designated platform, queue up and await boarding announcements. Listen for clear instructions from station staff and have your tickets handy. Allow fellow passengers to disembark before boarding and stow luggage responsibly in the overhead racks or designated areas to keep walkways clear.

Train classes of service

Both Avanti West Coast and LNER offer different travel classes. Once you get a handle on what each offering brings to the table, you'll be able to pinpoint the ones that fit your priorities like a glove.

Avanti West Coast

When you book your Avanti West Coast Manchester train to London Euston, you have three classes to choose from: Standard Class, Standard Premium and First Class. They all offer a comfortable ride, but there are some key differences that can impact your experience. This is especially true if you are travelling during peak times.

Standard Class

If you need cheap train tickets from Manchester to London, Standard class is the most affordable option. It gives you access to all the basic amenities. These include comfortable seats and power sockets. You can also buy food and drinks from the onboard shop.

Standard Premium

Standard Premium sits between Standard and First Class. It gives you more space and comfort than Standard Class without the full expense of First Class. You get wider seats and more legroom than Standard. Plus, you get a table, which is nice if you plan on working during your journey.

First Class

For the most comfort on Avanti trains from Manchester to London, First Class offers a more luxurious experience. It has wider seats, more legroom and complimentary food and drinks. You also get access to the First Class Lounge at some stations.

London North Eastern Railway (LNER)

Like their counterparts, LNER aims to provide choice without compromising on core features. Whether your focus is cost-effectiveness, added comfort or productivity, understanding your options is key. With this Manchester to London train line, you will find Standard, First and Business Premier class options.

Standard Class

Standard is a great option, with comfy seats and big windows to watch the scenery fly by. You'll be cosy the whole way. Each seat has power outlets for your convenience. You can also purchase refreshments from the train bistro.

First Class

If you want more space to stretch out, First Class is for you. Enjoy wider seats and more legroom. First Class also comes with free food and drinks right at your seat. Why not treat yourself?

Business Premier

For the ultimate experience, Business Premier is where it's at. This is perfect if you want to get work done on the train. You get a super comfy seat that turns into a bed. It’s your own little office on wheels! Business Premier also includes a full meal served right to your seat and lounge access.

Travel documentation and customs requirements

Train travel from Manchester to London is an entirely domestic route. As such, there’s little in the way of immigration or customs checks. Here’s what to be prepared for.

Required travel documents

No immigration or passport check is necessary on the Manchester to London train route. You will just need to present your tickets (electronic or paper), so have them ready to present to the conductor. Make sure to have your photo ID handy as well.

Customs requirements

Travel between Manchester and London does not typically involve customs checks, as both cities are within England. However, train officials still reserve the right to search your luggage if they deem it necessary.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a direct train from Manchester to London?

Yes, both Avanti West Coast and LNER offer Manchester to London direct train service, either from Manchester Picadilly to either London Euston (Avanti) or London King’s Cross (LNER).

Is there a direct Manchester to London Heathrow train?

No, there is no direct train from Manchester to train from Manchester to London Heathrow Airport (LHR). You will need to transfer to the airport from either Euston or King’s Cross through local public transit or ground transit.

Is there a direct Manchester to London Gatwick train?

No, there is no direct train from Manchester to train from Manchester to London Gatwick Airport (LGW). You will need to transfer to the airport from either Euston or King’s Cross through local public transit or ground transit.

Is there a direct Manchester to London Stansted train?

No, there is no direct train from Manchester to London Stansted Airport (STN). You will need to transfer to the airport from either Euston or King’s Cross through local public transit or ground transit.

Which train station in Manchester goes to London?

Both Avanti West Coast and LNER trains bound for London depart from Manchester Picadilly Train Station.

How long is the train from Manchester to London?

The Manchester to London high speed train takes roughly 2 hours.

How far is Manchester to London by train?

The Manchester to London train distanceis roughly 261 kilometres.

Is there a night train from Manchester to London?

No, at present there is no night train or sleeper train from Manchester to London.

Can you take a day trip from Manchester to London by train?

Yes, Manchester is close enough by train to London that it’s easy to make London a pleasant day trip, arriving by train in the morning and departing on one of the last trains in the evening after a full day of London sightseeing.

When do tickets go on sale for trains from Manchester to London?

You can book tickets along this route 6 months in advance.

Is the train from Manchester to London scenic?

Whether by Avanti West Coast or LNER, the scenery of the English countryside between Manchester and London is pleasant, but not breathtaking. Further north of Manchester the rail lines pass through the Lakes Region and the Northumbrian Coast respectively, but this far south it’s pretty much just farmland, forests and quaint English villages. Still, it’s a glimpse into the life of average Englishpersons outside of the big cities.