Trains from Manchester to Cambridge
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Manchester to Cambridge by train
It takes an average of 5h 31m to travel from Manchester to Cambridge by train, over a distance of around 133 miles (215 km). There are normally 178 trains per day traveling from Manchester to Cambridge and tickets for this journey start from $31.81 when you book in advance.
| First train | 02:37 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 01:42 | |
| Departure station | Manchester | |
| Arrival station | Cambridge | |
| Journey time | From 3h 30m | |
| Distance | 133 miles (215 km) | |
| Frequency | 178 trains per day | |
| Changes | 1 change | |
| Price | From $31.81 | |
| Train operators | CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Hull Trains, Great Northern, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, Thameslink, London North Eastern Railway, Transport for Wales, Grand Central Railway |
About the train journey from Manchester to Cambridge
Want to travel from Manchester to Cambridge by train? Start your journey with us.
The train from Manchester to Cambridge usually takes 5 hours 31 minutes on average to travel 215 km, although the quickest services can take as little as 3 hours 30 minutes. You can expect to find 178 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren't any direct services running between Manchester and Cambridge, you'll need to make 1 change on your way to Cambridge.
To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Manchester to Cambridge in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save, as advance tickets start from $31.81.
Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Cambridge, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you're ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.
FAQs for Manchester to Cambridge
Want to know more about your journey from Manchester to Cambridge? 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 Manchester to Cambridge take?
The average journey time by train between Manchester and Cambridge is 5 hours and 31 minutes, with around 178 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 Manchester and Cambridge by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Manchester to Cambridge is 3 hours and 30 minutes.
How much does the train from Manchester to Cambridge cost?
Train tickets from Manchester to Cambridge can start from as little as $31.81 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from Manchester to Cambridge?
No, there are no direct train services from Manchester to Cambridge. Travelling from Manchester to Cambridge by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
What time does the first train from Manchester to Cambridge leave?
The first train from Manchester to Cambridge leaves at 02:37. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Manchester to Cambridge leave?
The last train from Manchester to Cambridge leaves at 01:42. 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 Manchester and Cambridge by train?
Trains travelling from Manchester to Cambridge cover a distance of around 133 miles (215 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Cambridge to Manchester.
Cheap train tickets from Manchester to Cambridge
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 Manchester to Cambridge 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.
*Based on the average monthly unique visitors to Trainline’s website from 1.03.2022 to 28.02.2023 vs other independent retailers.