Bristol to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Wed, Apr 01
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CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bristol to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$79

Average price

$121

Fastest journey

2 h 58 m

Average duration

3 h 13 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

227 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bristol to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bristol to Manchester will cost around $121 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Bristol for Manchester on Thu, Apr 02, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Apr 02 the direct trains cover the 227 km distance in an average of 3 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 58 m .

On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 3 h 46 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Great Western RailwayP23016 · P22617+Transport for WalesL64807
    8:08 AM4h05
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    12:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $791One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayP23218+Transport for WalesL64791
    9:27 AM3h46
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    1:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $791One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryC74901
    8:01 AM2h58
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    10:59 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $971One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryC74903
    9:00 AM2h59
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    11:59 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $971One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryC75330+Avanti West CoastL02372 · W02536
    9:33 AM3h11
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    12:44 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1821One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Bristol to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $10, and a train costs an average of $33.

Distance: 141 miles (227 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

$73

Average price

$23

Average price

Cheapest

3h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 40m

Average total duration

4h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Bristol to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Manchester trains for today, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
cross_countryC74903
On time
8:00 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
10:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP23218+transport_for_walesL64791
On time
8:27 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h46
12:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
cross_countryC75330+avanti_west_coastL02372 · W02536
On time
8:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h11
11:44 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Thursday, April 2
cross_countryC749017:01 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h58
9:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
great_westernP23016 · P22617+transport_for_walesL64807
On time
7:08 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h05
11:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
cross_countryC75328+avanti_west_coastW01952 · L02244
On time
7:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h11
10:44 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bristol to Manchester by bus or train

Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

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Apr 02
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Why should you book Bristol to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Bristol to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Bristol to Manchester.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Bristol to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Manchester.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bristol to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Bristol to Manchester is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bristol to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bristol to Manchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Bristol to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bristol to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bristol to Manchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) but you can travel from only $10 (€8) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 141 miles (227 km) distance in 2h 58m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $10 (€8)
Distance
141 miles (227 km)
Average train duration
3h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$33 (€27)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 58m
First train
4:25 AM
Last train
11:36 PM
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $10 (€8)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway, Cross Country from Bristol to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Bristol and Manchester from $10 (€8). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 44m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 9m
Cheapest Price
$172 (€139)
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 27m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€137)
Great Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
$245 (€199)
Cross Country frequency
25 a day

FAQs: Trains from Bristol to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol to Manchester by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bristol to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $33 (€27), while the average price is around $73 (€59).
The train from Bristol to Manchester takes 2h 58m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Bristol to Manchester is 141 miles (227 km).
The first train from Bristol to Manchester leaves at 4:25 AM.
The last train from Bristol to Manchester leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bristol to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bristol to Manchester. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bristol to Manchester.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Manchester is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Bristol to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
The train journey from Bristol to Manchester offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through picturesque areas like the Cotswolds and Peak District, enhancing the scenic experience.
A day trip from Bristol to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 58m. The distance is 141 miles (227 km), and trains run 6 times per day.
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Bristol to Manchester.
Since neither Bristol nor Manchester are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Manchester among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Bristol to Manchester

Bristol
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Bristol is Bristol Temple Meads. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bristol Temple Meads for your trip from Bristol to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30
  • Sun: 06:45 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: WHS/M&S; Uppercrust; Pumpkin; Pasty Shop; Starbucks; Lily's Flowers
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
Dining
  • The Pasty Shop
  • Starbucks
  • Upper Crust
  • Pumpkin Café
  • Hart's Bakery
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: The taxi rank is available on the station forecourt. If you require an accessible taxi please approach a member of staff for assistance. To reach the station forecourt; exit through the ticket barriers, turn left and exit through the main doors. You can find more information about local taxi services here.
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators.
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Ladies, Gents and Baby Change are located in the Passenger Subway. The Baby Change is located next to the Ladies Toilets. An additional Baby Change facility is also located in the Accessible Toilet on Platform 13/15. Accessible Toilets are located on Platform 3 by the Help Desk and on Platform 13/15.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: Radar Key available from station staff.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center
  • Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Waiting Rooms are located on Platform 5/7 and on Platform 13/15
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30
  • Sun: 06:45 - 21:30
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: The main storage location for bikes is at The Friary at Temple Quay, just to the right of the ramped exit from the long stay car park. A limited bike storage location can be found on Station Approach by Queen Anne's Gate. There is no longer any bike storage inside the station.
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the main entrance.
Public transit options for Bristol Temple Meads
  • Bus lines: A1, 1, 2, 8, 39/349/X39, 70, 73, 178, 376
  • Train lines: CrossCountry, Great Western Main Line, Severn Beach Line
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station front. Alternative: the lower approach road, outside the front of Bristol & Exeter House
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to the platform
  • Accessible taxis: No
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: platform
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Montpelier
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stops on either side of Cheltenham Road
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 24 hours Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
11 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7 with short-term and long-term parking options available. Access via the A38 road.
Dining
Dining
  • Dexters
  • Brunel Bar & Kitchen
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • £1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport
  • Holiday Inn Bristol Airport
  • Winford Manor Hotel
Shower
Shower
  • Cost £10
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main terminal
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main terminal
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Main Terminal: check-in desks, security, and departure gates
  • Arrivals Hall: baggage claim and customs
  • Parking: short-term and long-term options available
Public transit options for Bristol, Airport
  • Bus: Airport Flyer Express
  • Train: Bristol Temple Meads station is the nearest major train station, connected by bus services

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