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Trains from Manchester to Runcorn

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Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Manchester to Runcorn

Trains to Runcorn from Manchester

First train

03:39

Last train

00:48

Departure stationManchester
Arrival stationRuncorn
Journey time

From 50m

Distance

23 miles (37 km)

Frequency

233 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train operators

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales

What are the train times from Manchester to Runcorn?

Get from Manchester to Runcorn in as little as 50 minutes on the fastest trains, so you can make the most of your time.

The average train journey from Manchester to Runcorn takes around 2 hours 13 minutes. There are around 233 trains that operate on this route daily.

As there are no direct trains between Manchester and Runcorn, you'll need to make 1 change.

Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, East Midlands Railway and TransPennine Express trains operate on this route.

Booking in advance often results in cheaper ticket prices.

With our Journey Planner, you can check live train times, compare prices and check routes.

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

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

How do you get to Runcorn from Manchester?

To travel to Runcorn from Manchester, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 2 hours and 13 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 50 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Manchester to Runcorn?

Trains from Manchester to Runcorn take an average of 2 hours and 13 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 50 minutes. You'll usually find 233 trains 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 Manchester and Runcorn by train?

The quickest journey time between Manchester and Runcorn by train is 50 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Manchester to Runcorn?

No, there are no direct trains running from Manchester to Runcorn, you’ll usually need to make at least 1 change during the journey.

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

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 Manchester to Runcorn 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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