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The cheapest and fastest trains from Watford to Manchester
Showing times and prices for Dec 16
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$76
Fastest journey
2 h 27 m
Average duration
2 h 35 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Watford to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Watford to Manchester will cost around $76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Watford for Manchester on Tue, Dec 16, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Dec 16 the direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 2 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 27 m .
On Tue, Dec 16 the slowest trains will take 2 h 49 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.
12:38PM2h49
Watford03:27PMManchester
$701One-way
0 transfers
11:38AM2h27
Watford02:05PMManchester
$751One-way
0 transfers
11:28AM2h37
Watford02:05PMManchester
$751One-way
0 transfers
11:30AM2h35
Watford02:05PMManchester
$751One-way
0 transfers
10:38AM2h27
Watford01:05PMManchester
$851One-way
0 transfers
11:38AM2h27
Watford02:05PMManchester
$751One-way
0 transfers
10:38AM2h27
Watford01:05PMManchester
$851One-way
0 transfers
11:30AM2h35
Watford02:05PMManchester
$751One-way
0 transfers
11:28AM2h37
Watford02:05PMManchester
$751One-way
0 transfers
12:38PM2h49
Watford03:27PMManchester
$701One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Watford to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Watford to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 3m. 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 train costs an average of €44, and a flight costs an average of €47.
Distance: 147 miles (238 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|
€68 Average price Cheapest | €163 Average price |
3h 6m Average total duration 2h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Watford to Manchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Watford to Manchester trains for today, Monday, December 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 2:20 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W06730+L02235 | On time 8:26 AM Bushey (BSH) | 2h39 | 11:05 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
 P50950+W05671+L02235 | On time 8:29 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h36 | 11:05 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
| W08016+W02615 | On time 8:35 AM Bushey (BSH) | 2h44 | 11:19 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| W05671+L02235 | On time 8:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 2h27 | 11:05 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| W06716+L02244 | On time 8:49 AM Bushey (BSH) | 2h55 | 11:44 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| W06743+W02612 | On time 9:26 AM Bushey (BSH) | 2h39 | 12:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| P50976+W05682+W02612 | On time 9:29 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h36 | 12:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
| W08032+W02610 | On time 9:36 AM Bushey (BSH) | 2h44 | 12:20 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| W05682+W02612 | On time 9:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 2h27 | 12:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
W05682+W03091+ L11304 | On time 9:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 3h02 | 12:40 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
| W06728+W02536 | On time 9:49 AM Bushey (BSH) | 2h55 | 12:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| P51003+W05695+W02607 | On time 10:28 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h37 | 1:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
| W05695+W02663+L11302 | On time 10:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 3h02 | 1:40 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
| W05695+W02607 | On time 10:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 2h27 | 1:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| P51031+W05708+W02602 | On time 11:28 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h37 | 2:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
| W05708+W02602 | On time 11:38 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 2h27 | 2:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| P51059+W05719+W02597 | On time 12:28 PM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h37 | 3:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
| P51073+W05732+W02591 | On time 1:28 PM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h37 | 4:05 PM 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 Watford to Manchester by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, and bus 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.
Tue
Dec 16
Dec 16
Wed
Dec 17
Dec 17
Thu
Dec 18
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Dec 22
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Watford to Manchester?
The best time to book your train from Watford to Manchester is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Watford to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Watford 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 Watford to Manchester.
Trains
from $74Journey information
Overview: Train from Watford to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Watford to Manchester run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€44) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:07, the last at 22:17. The fastest train covers the 147 miles (238 km) distance in 2h 4m.
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
Distance 147 miles (238 km) |
Average train duration 2h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€44) |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 2h 4m |
First train 04:07 |
Last train 22:17 |
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
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains from Watford to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Watford and Manchester from $54 (€44). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
Avanti West Coast frequency
15 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
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
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
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
West Midlands Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 27m
West Midlands Trains frequency
14 a day
FAQs: Trains from Watford to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Watford 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.
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.
The train journey from Watford to Manchester offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the scenic English countryside, with rolling hills and occasional picturesque towns along the route.
A day trip from Watford to Manchester is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 4m. Trains run every 15 per day, with the distance being 147 miles (238 km).
Train ticket prices from Watford to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€44), while the average price is around $84 (€68).
The distance by train from Watford to Manchester is 147 miles (238 km).
The train from Watford to Manchester takes 2h 4m and runs 15 per day.
The train station in Watford that goes to Manchester is Watford Junction (WFJ), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Watford to Manchester is by train, with a cost of around $54 (€44).
The last train from Watford to Manchester leaves at 10:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Watford to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Watford to Manchester.
The first train from Watford to Manchester leaves at 4:07 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Watford to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Watford to Manchester. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Watford to Manchester
Watford
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Watford is Bushey. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bushey for your trip from Watford to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:45 - 21:00 Saturday 08:15 - 15:15 Sunday 09:15 - 16:30
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: Bushey Station
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: behind the Ticket Office
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Bushey
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:00 Saturday 10:30 - 12:30
Distance to city center
3 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Local shops nearby
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Accessibility category B2. Long sloping ramp from station entrance to booking hall. Level access from booking hall to platforms.
- Accessible public telephones: Outside booking office. Sloped passage from entrance to booking hall.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Carpenders Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop C in Prestwick Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Prestwick Road for southbound services to Euston
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDining
ATMAccessibility
HotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:30 - 10:00 Saturday 09:30 - 12:15
Shopping
- Type of shops available: High Street shops located nearby
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only
- Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Watford High Street
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Lower High Street for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Lower High Street for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
- Metro: Watford London Underground station (Metropolitan line) is approximately 34 minutes' walk away
The major train station for arrivals in Manchester is Ashburys. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Ashburys for your journey to Manchester from Watford.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotel
Lost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Dining
- Cabral's Restaurant Brazilian Street Food and Grocery Store
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category C station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station , To Manchester : up 47 steps onto the platform. To Glossop/Sheffield : up 47 steps onto the Manchester platform, turn right and up 31 steps, across the footbridge (15 paces) and down 31 steps onto the platform
- Accessible taxis: contact Customer Relations 08002006060
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Ashburys
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stops on Pottery Lane (A6010) under railway bridge.
- Metro: GMPTE 0161 228 7811
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:20 - 23:40 Sunday 08:10 - 23:30
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station From Whitworth Street, up a ramp (43 paces, 1:25 slope) and level access through the entrance into the foyer. Or from the junction of Chester Road, Whitworth Street and Deansgate, level access through the entrance, along the corridor and up 21 steps into the foyer. Then, to Manchester: Past the ticket office, via the lift in the foyer. Or up a ramp (34 paces), up 17 steps onto the platform. To Bolton, Warrington and Wigan : Via the lift in the foyer or along the subway (26 paces), up a ramp (32 paces) and up 18 steps onto the platform. Level access to Manchester platform also via overbridge from Metrolink G-Mex Metrolink stop. Lift available first to last train, currently 06:20 - 23:40 Monday to Saturday. 08:10 - 23:30 Sunday.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Deansgate
- Onward travel information: Free Metro shuttle bus link from station front serving Manchester City centre including Victoria Station On both sides of Whitworth Street, Deansgate and Chester Road for buses to Piccadilly Gardens, Altrincham or Sale. Contact Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at bus stops on Whitworth St.
- Metro: Metrolink G-Mex tram stop linked by footbridge from Manchester platform. 0161 228 7811
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibility
WCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
8 km
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Wilmslow Road.
Dining
- The Didsbury
- The Gateway
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Travelodge Manchester Didsbury
- Premier Inn Manchester Didsbury
- Eleven Didsbury Park Hotel
Information Desk
- Located near the ticket office
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: entrance and ticket office
- Hall 2: access to platforms
Public transit options for East Didsbury
- Tram: Metrolink East Didsbury Line
- Bus: Several lines available including 42, 142, 50
Most popular train connections from Watford
More options for your journey from Watford to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Manchester and Watford
Most popular train connections to Manchester
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