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Outbound fromChester to Manchester by train
It takes an average of 1h 3m to travel from Chester to Manchester by train, over a distance of around 33 miles (53 km). There are normally 96 trains per day travelling from Chester to Manchester and tickets for this journey start from £2.60 when you book in advance.
| First train | 02:51 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:26 | |
| Departure station | Chester | |
| Arrival station | Manchester | |
| Journey time | From 48m | |
| Distance | 33 miles (53 km) | |
| Frequency | 96 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £2.60 | |
| Train operators |
How to travel from Chester to Manchester by train
Planning to take the train from Chester to Manchester and need more information about the journey? You’ve come to the right place!
Usually, the journey from Chester to Manchester by train takes around 1 hour and 4 minutes. However, the fastest services can take you there in just 49 minutes. On this popular route, you can expect to find 144 direct trains running each day, so you don’t need to make any changes during your journey.
If you’re travelling on this route, you’ll board a train at Chester station operated by either Transport for Wales or Northern. No matter who you travel with, you’ll enjoy onboard amenities such as comfortable seating and free WiFi on most services. If you’re travelling with Transport for Wales, your train will arrive at Manchester Piccadilly station. However, if you’re travelling on a Northern service, your train could arrive at Manchester Piccadilly station or Manchester Victoria station.
From both stations, you’re conveniently located to some of Manchester’s most famous landmarks. With so many things to see and do in Manchester, it can be difficult to know where to begin. For inspiration, check out our guide to the best things to do in Manchester, including a trip to the National Football Museum and Manchester Art Gallery.
Want to save money on your train tickets? Try to travel at Off-Peak times, as tickets tend to be cheaper during quieter travel times on weekdays and weekends. To save even more, get yourself a Railcard and you’ll save up to 1/3 on eligible journeys for a whole year.
Ready to book? Start a search for cheap train tickets from Chester to Manchester in our Journey Planner at the top of the page. For more information about the journey, continue reading for timetables, tips on finding cheap tickets and FAQs.
FAQs about the train journey from Chester to Manchester
Want to know more about your journey from Chester to Manchester? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Can you take a train directly from Chester to Manchester?
How close is Chester to Manchester by train?
Is it possible to get from Chester to Manchester without flying?
What is the best way to travel from Chester to Manchester?
What time does the first train from Chester to Manchester leave?
What time does the last train from Chester to Manchester leave?
How often are trains from Chester to Manchester?
Do you need to book the train from Chester to Manchester in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from Chester to Manchester?
Cheap train tickets from Chester 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 Chester 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.