Trains from Chester to Manchester
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Chester 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 97 trains per day travelling from Chester to Manchester and tickets for this journey start from £6.20 when you book in advance.
| First train | 02:51 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:23 | |
| Departure station | Chester | |
| Arrival station | Manchester | |
| Journey time | From 48m | |
| Distance | 33 miles (53 km) | |
| Frequency | 97 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £6.20 | |
| 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.
Journey details
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.
How long does the train from Chester to Manchester take?
The average journey time by train between Chester and Manchester is 1 hour and 3 minutes, with around 97 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Chester and Manchester by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Chester to Manchester is 48 minutes.
How much does the train from Chester to Manchester cost?
Train ticket prices from Chester to Manchester can start from as little as £6.20 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Chester to Manchester?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Chester to Manchester without having to change trains. There are 97 direct trains from Chester to Manchester each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Chester to Manchester leave?
The first train from Chester to Manchester leaves at 02:51. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Chester to Manchester leave?
The last train from Chester to Manchester leaves at 23:23. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Chester and Manchester by train?
Trains travelling from Chester to Manchester cover a distance of around 33 miles (53 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Manchester to Chester.
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.