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Trains from Cambridge to Manchester

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  2. Train times
  3. Cambridge to Manchester

Cambridge to Manchester by train

It takes an average of 5h 38m to travel from Cambridge to Manchester by train, over a distance of around 133 miles (215 km). There are normally 276 trains per day traveling from Cambridge to Manchester and tickets for this journey start from $36.83 when you book in advance.

First train

3:41 am

Last train

11:51 pm

Departure station

Cambridge

Arrival station

Manchester

Journey time

From 3h 35m

Distance

133 miles (215 km)

Frequency

276 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Price

From $36.83

Train operators

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Grand Central Railway, Great Northern, Greater Anglia, London North Eastern Railway, Lumo, Thameslink, TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales

Take the train from Cambridge to Manchester

Thinking about taking the train from Cambridge to Manchester? We've got you covered.

It usually takes around 5 hours 38 minutes to travel between Cambridge and Manchester by train. On average, 276 trains operate on this route each day.

You can't get a direct train on this route; you'll need to make 1 change.

Tickets on this route can start from $36.83. To find cheaper tickets, it's often a good idea to book in advance.

Use our Journey Planner to compare times, tickets and prices.

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Cambridge to Manchester?

Want to know more about your journey from Cambridge to Manchester? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do I travel from Cambridge to Manchester?

You can get from Cambridge to Manchester in 5 hours and 38 minutes on average, with the fastest trains taking just 3 hours and 35 minutes. Check out our Journey Planner for more details on times, tickets and prices.

How long does the train from Cambridge to Manchester take?

The average journey time by train between Cambridge and Manchester is 5 hours and 38 minutes, with around 276 trains per day running on this route. 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.

How much does the train from Cambridge to Manchester cost?

Train tickets from Cambridge to Manchester can start from as little as $36.83 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book.

What's the fastest journey time between Cambridge and Manchester by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cambridge to Manchester is 3 hours and 35 minutes.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Cambridge to Manchester?

Planning a trip to the UK soon? As most UK train companies increase their prices as the departure date approaches, our Trainline team of experts have put together these tips to help you find the cheapest tickets.

1. Book in advance

Train tickets from Cambridge to Manchester start at $36.83§ one way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. UK train companies usually release Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of time and these can be cheaper than tickets bought on the day of travel.

2. Sign up to Ticket Alert

If you're planning a trip more than 12 weeks ahead, sign up to our Ticket Alert to get notified when Advance tickets are released for your travel date.

3. Book split tickets

Our handy feature SplitSave will ‘split’ your train journey into multiple tickets, which can be much cheaper than buying a single ticket. Find out more about split tickets.

4. Travel Off-Peak

If you can be flexible with your travel times, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets are usually cheaper than Anytime tickets in the UK. Generally, Off-Peak times are any time at weekends and outside of Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.

For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.

§Advance adult single fare. Excludes booking fee. Prices seen by Trainline customers in the last 30 days. Availability limited.

What are my ticket options for this journey?

If you're like us, you've probably seen the sheer number of ticket types available in the UK and wondered "Why are there so many?!" To help, we've put together a handy guide to the main UK ticket types, simply tap the one you’re interested in to find out more.

Advance train tickets

Single tickets released ahead of time for a specific time and date. Generally, the sooner you book, the cheaper these tickets are likely to be.

Anytime train tickets

Flexible tickets that allow you to travel at any time of the day. Perfect if you have to be somewhere but aren’t sure for how long.

First Class train tickets

Fancy traveling in style? Enjoy perks like more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments and lounge access with First Class train tickets.

GroupSave train tickets

Save up to 1/3 when traveling with a group of 3 to 9 people on eligible single or return journeys at Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak times.

Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak train tickets

Available at quieter times of the day, Off-Peak tickets offer the flexibility of traveling at any time during the Off-Peak window and discounted fares.

Return train tickets

Return tickets combine your outward and return journey into a single ticket. Choose from a Day or Open Return ticket for more flexibility on travel dates.

Family train tickets

Traveling with your family? There are plenty of family offers to help you save money, including Kids for a Quid tickets for children aged 5-15 and Off-Peak Family Travelcards.

* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

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