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Cheap train tickets from Runcorn to Manchester

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Runcorn to Manchester Train Timetable

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Trip Summary

You can pick from 15 daily train trips between Runcorn and Manchester. The average train journey from Runcorn to Manchester takes 43 minutes, but some Northern Rail train trips are as short as 36 minutes.

Distance22 mi (36 km)
Fastest train0h 36m
Lowest price£5.56
Trains per day33
Most frequent serviceTransport For Wales
Train lines2

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Which train should you take from Runcorn to Manchester?

2 train services operate from Runcorn to Manchester. Transport For Wales usually has more trains scheduled, with 12 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Northern Rail30h 36m£5.76
Transport For Wales120h 44m£13.68
  • Northern Rail, branded simply as 'Northern' on its trains, travels to cities such as Manchester, Blackpool, Windermere, Newcastle, and York. Complimentary WiFi is usually available in first- and standard-class carriages, plus an onboard restroom. The newer trains boast extra legroom, and all services have space for luggage at the end of carriages.

  • Transport for Wales is a trusted provider of passenger rail travel in Wales and the border region with England. Popular trips include Chester to Church Stretton, Caldicot to Cardiff Central station, and Manchester to London. Passengers onboard can enjoy complimentary WiFi and various options for onboard meals, from either a café car or at-seat trolley service for snacks, sodas, and hot drinks.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Runcorn to Manchester

The distance between Runcorn and Manchester is approximately 22 miles, or 36 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 43 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 36 minutes. It's a short and pleasant ride; the train is a perfect way to get to Manchester.

Trains from Runcorn to Manchester are the most crowded on Sunday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

The earliest train departs Runcorn at 05:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 18:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

There are 15 scheduled trains on most days. 33 of these are direct connections to Manchester. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Manchester to Runcorn.

City Information

Manchester

Manchester, UK - GBEIS-0

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Manchester, UK - GBEIS-1

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Manchester, UK - GBEIS-2

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Most recognizable for its world-famous football team, Manchester is a modern, vibrant city with a diverse range of attractions that will appeal to explorers of all kinds. Often referred to as "The Capital of the North," Manchester is also known for being the birthplace of the industrial revolution. Visitors can relive this booming era by taking a trip to the Science and Industry Museum to see how this previously small town changed the world's ideas of industry and manufacturing forever. These days, Manchester is famous for its music and art scene, with it being the birthplace of bands like The Smiths and Oasis.

Art and music-lovers may want to visit Afflecks, a vast and eclectic emporium of all things indie and grunge, to purchase records, artwork, and memorabilia, among many other things. Manchester is also home to 15 parks and gardens, with Fletcher Moss Park and Botanical Gardens among the most popular. This park provides a beautiful setting for picnics and scenic walks, perfect for when you need an escape from the bustling city.

And if you really are only here for Man U, both Old Trafford and Etihad Stadium are stops on our itinerary to visit every premier league stadium in England.

With three large train stations—Piccadilly, Oxford Road, and Victoria—Manchester is easily accessible via rail. National Express and Megabus coaches also allow access from all over the country. In addition, Manchester Airport houses three large terminals, which provide global entry to the city.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Runcorn?

Main departure station: Runcorn East Station

There is one train station in Runcorn.

All train stations in Runcorn:

  • Runcorn East Station

Where is the train station in Manchester?

Main arrival station: East Didsbury

There are more train stations and stops in Manchester than most cities. Most trains from Runcorn will stop at one (or more) of the 4 following stations in Manchester:

Train stations in Manchester:

  • East Didsbury

  • Manchester Oxford Rd Station

  • Manchester Piccadilly Station

  • Manchester Victoria

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