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Trains from Macclesfield to Thurso

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Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Macclesfield to Thurso

Trains to Thurso from Macclesfield

First train

08:43

Last train

23:25

Departure stationMacclesfield
Arrival stationThurso
Journey time

From 12h 14m

Distance

372 miles (599 km)

Frequency

1 train per day

Changes

3 changes

Train operators

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, ScotRail, TransPennine Express

What are the train times from Macclesfield to Thurso?

Check out the next trains departing from Macclesfield to Thurso for Tuesday 20th October 2026 using our handy timetable below, including platform and live travel information. You can view the full day timetable or search for a different date here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
09:4322:2012h 37m, 3 changes
09:4622:2012h 34m, 4 changes
10:0622:2012h 14m, 5 changes
15:4310:5919h 16m, 3 changes
22:1814:2416h 6m, 3 changes
22:3614:2415h 48m, 3 changes
23:2517:5018h 25m, 4 changes

Travelling from Macclesfield to Thurso by train

If you're planning to travel from Macclesfield to Thurso, we're here to help!

On average, the train journey from Macclesfield to Thurso takes around 15 hours 1 minute. There are normally 1 train per day travelling from Macclesfield to Thurso.

You'll have to make 3 changes on your journey to Thurso, as there are no direct trains.

Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, TransPennine Express and CrossCountry trains operate on this route.

Save money on your train tickets by booking in advance.

Use our Journey Planner to compare ticket prices and find the cheapest fares.

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Macclesfield to Thurso?

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

How do you get to Thurso from Macclesfield?

To travel to Thurso from Macclesfield, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 15 hours and 1 minute, though the fastest trains can take 12 hours and 14 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Macclesfield to Thurso?

Trains from Macclesfield to Thurso take an average of 15 hours and 1 minute, although on the fastest services it can take just 12 hours and 14 minutes. You'll usually find 1 train per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Macclesfield and Thurso by train?

The quickest journey time between Macclesfield and Thurso by train is 12 hours and 14 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Macclesfield to Thurso?

No, there are no direct trains running from Macclesfield to Thurso, you’ll usually need to make at least 3 changes during the journey.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Macclesfield to Thurso?

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. 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.

2. Use a Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel throughout the year. Buy one with us and you'll be able to store it digitally in our app, so you'll always have it on your travels.

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 in the UK. Generally, Off-Peak times are any time at weekends and outside of Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.

5. Consider a Season Ticket

Best for commuters, if you catch a train on the same route more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly, weekly and flexi options available, find out if a Season Ticket for Macclesfield to Thurso is right for you.

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.
† Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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