Trains from Liverpool to Manchester
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Liverpool to Manchester by train
It takes an average of 51m to travel from Liverpool to Manchester by train, over a distance of around 31 miles (50 km). There are normally 245 trains per day travelling from Liverpool to Manchester and tickets for this journey start from £3.60 when you book in advance.
| First train | 03:54 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:36 | |
| Departure station | Liverpool | |
| Arrival station | Manchester | |
| Journey time | From 34m | |
| Distance | 31 miles (50 km) | |
| Frequency | 245 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £3.60 | |
| Train operators |
How to travel from Liverpool to Manchester by train in just 35m
Planning a day out and need more information about the journey from Liverpool to Manchester? Look no further!
Generally, the train journey from Liverpool to Manchester usually takes around 51 minutes. But, if you want to get there quicker, you can travel from Liverpool to Manchester by train in just 35 minutes on the fastest services provided by Transpennine Express, Northern or East Midlands Railways. With around 164 direct trains running on this popular route every day, you don’t need to worry about changing along the way.
When travelling on this route, you’ll hop on a train at Liverpool Lime Street and travel through the 31 miles that separate these two major cities. Whether you’re travelling with Transpennine Express, Northern or East Midlands Railway, you’ll enjoy comfortable seating and WiFi. Before you know it, you’ll arrive at Manchester Piccadilly station.
Boasting vibrant nightlife and trendy shops, Manchester is one of the biggest cities in the UK and the ideal place for a day out. If you’re not sure what to see and do once you’ve arrived, check out our guide to the best things to do in Manchester, including a trip to the National Football Museum and the Manchester Art Gallery.
Want to snap up the cheapest fares? Try taking the train during Off-Peak times. Also, if you tend to travel more than a few times a year, get yourself a Railcard and you’ll save up to 1/3 on eligible journeys for a whole year.
Keen to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets from Liverpool to Manchester in our Journey Planner at the top of the page. There’s no need to wait, start your journey today! For more information, keep reading for our train timetable, tips on booking cheaper fares and our FAQs including first and last train times.
*Calculations are based on CO2 / passenger km, comparing an average petrol car, using statistics and conversion factors published in the government’s greenhouse gas reporting conversion factors published 7 June 2023 and revised 28 June 2023. See here for more.
Journey details
Want to know more about your journey from Liverpool to Manchester? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Liverpool to Manchester take?
The average journey time by train between Liverpool and Manchester is 51 minutes, with around 245 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Liverpool and Manchester by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Liverpool to Manchester is 34 minutes.
How much does the train from Liverpool to Manchester cost?
Train ticket prices from Liverpool to Manchester can start from as little as £3.60 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.
Is there a direct train from Liverpool to Manchester?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Liverpool to Manchester without having to change trains. There are 245 direct trains from Liverpool to Manchester each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Liverpool to Manchester leave?
The first train from Liverpool to Manchester leaves at 03:54. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Liverpool to Manchester leave?
The last train from Liverpool to Manchester leaves at 23:36. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Liverpool and Manchester by train?
Trains travelling from Liverpool to Manchester cover a distance of around 31 miles (50 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Manchester to Liverpool. If you’re looking for other options, you can also catch the bus from Liverpool to Manchester.
Cheap train tickets from Liverpool to Manchester
Book in advance
Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.
Consider a Season Ticket
If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Liverpool to Manchester is right for you.
Use your Railcard
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.
Split your tickets
Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.