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Trains from Gatwick Airport to
Manchester Piccadilly

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Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly by train

A train trip from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly takes about 3hrs 40 mins on average, covering roughly 182 miles (294 kilometres). With around 47 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £46.30, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Departure Station

Gatwick Airport

Frequency

47trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 28 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:21 / 00:41

Distance

182miles
(294 km)

4 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£46.30

Travelling from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly by Train

Hop on a Train from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 3hrs 40 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Manchester Piccadilly), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 28 mins. With roughly 47 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 182-mile (294 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Thameslink, Avanti West Coast, Southern, Gatwick Express, East Midlands Railway, First TransPennine Express, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £46.30 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Manchester Piccadilly!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly

Curious about your trip from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The travel time between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 40 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 28 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly is 3hrs 28 mins.

How much does the train from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly cost?

Train ticket prices from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly can start from as little as £46.30 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 47 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:21, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:41.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly?

First class tickets on trains between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly?

Amenities on trains between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Piccadilly, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Gatwick Airport & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 47 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly?

Thameslink, Avanti West Coast, Southern, Gatwick Express, East Midlands Railway and First TransPennine Express are the main train operating companies running services between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Gatwick Airport and Manchester Piccadilly, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly on Thursday 24th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Thursday 24th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:28 Gatwick Airport10:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
06:46 Gatwick Airport10:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
07:16 Gatwick Airport10:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
07:40 Gatwick Airport11:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
07:55 Gatwick Airport11:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
08:16 Gatwick Airport11:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
08:40 Gatwick Airport12:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
08:55 Gatwick Airport12:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
09:16 Gatwick Airport12:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
09:40 Gatwick Airport13:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
09:56 Gatwick Airport13:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
3 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
10:16 Gatwick Airport13:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
3 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly start from as little as £46.30

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly start from £84.20 one way, or £120.30 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly are available for £208.80 one way, or £417.60 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Gatwick Airport to Manchester Piccadilly is £150.40 & the average saving on this route is £33.32!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Gatwick Airport Station

Discovering Gatwick Airport Train Station

Gatwick Airport Train Station is a vital hub within the UK's railway network, offering convenient access to both air and rail travelers who wish to seamlessly connect between flights and city centers. Located at the heart of one of London's major airports, it plays a crucial role in facilitating the journey of millions of passengers every year. Whether you're just arriving by plane or embarking on a train journey, knowing the amenities and travel options available at Gatwick will ensure your trip is as smooth as possible.

Facilities and Amenities at Gatwick Airport Station

Though there is no ticket office, purchasing and collecting train tickets at Gatwick Airport Station is made easy with accessible ticket machines available throughout the premises. These machines are ideal for collecting tickets bought online, ensuring you’re all set to board your train without hassle.

The station is well-equipped for travelers with accessibility needs, with step-free access available across all platforms. For those requiring additional assistance, staff at Gatwick are available to offer help as needed. You’ll also find heated waiting areas on the platforms to ensure comfort during cooler months.

Additional amenities include accessible toilets and baby changing facilities, available on both the platforms and in the airport terminal itself. For those seeking refreshment or needing to withdraw cash, you’ll find facilities readily available, including a variety of shops and dining options in the adjacent airport terminal.

Onward Travel Options

There are numerous onward travel options available directly from the station. For direct connectivity, taxis can be found at the South Terminal bus station, a short walk from the concourse. There are also various car hire providers operating from the airport terminals, perfect for those looking to explore at their own pace.

Bus connections are conveniently located at the upper level of the bus station, providing easy access to further travel by road. Gatwick Airport is known for its close ties to the south east rail network, making the transition from air travel to city commuting remarkably straightforward.

Popular Train Journeys from Gatwick Airport

If your travels take you farther afield, Gatwick Airport Train Station serves as a gateway to numerous popular destinations across the UK. The station is a stone's throw from central London, with frequent trains to London Victoria and London Bridge, perfect for business travelers and tourists alike.

Journeying south, you can quickly reach the coastal charms of Brighton. If your destination is in the north, reliable service to London St Pancras International links you directly to international rail services.

Aside from these key routes, there are frequent connections to Haywards Heath, Redhill, and even further afield to destinations like Reading and Southampton Central — offering a wide variety of choices for any itinerary.

Conclusion

In summary, Gatwick Airport Train Station is more than just a stop along your journey; it’s a well-equipped hub that ensures travelers’ needs are met efficiently and comfortably. With its myriad transit options and seamless integration with the airport, this station is a pivotal link whether you're heading into the heart of London, exploring the southern coast, or journeying towards Europe.

So, the next time you're planning a journey through or from Gatwick Airport Train Station, rest assured you'll find all the facilities and travel connections you need. Be sure to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance for the best deals and a smooth traveling experience.

Everything you need to know about Manchester Piccadilly Station

Exploring Manchester Piccadilly Train Station

Manchester Piccadilly is an iconic travel hub, bustling with energy and packed with features to smooth your journey. Serving millions of passengers each year, it stands as a crucial entry and exit point for both the city of Manchester and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a daily commuter or a tourist navigating the UK rail system, understanding the facilities and services at Manchester Piccadilly can enhance your travel experience significantly.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Manchester Piccadilly expertly caters to passenger needs with a variety of facilities. The ticket office operates diligently from as early as 4:30 am to 10:30 pm through the week, ensuring you can grab a ticket for those early morning travels. For those tech-savvy commuters, ticket machines are readily available and accessible, allowing smooth online ticket collection. The station is well-equipped for accessibility; offering step-free access, ramps, and tactile warning strips for the visually impaired make it a user-friendly place for all travelers.

The station boasts free public Wi-Fi, ATM machines, and a plethora of shops and dining options. Coffee lovers will appreciate the numerous kiosks, while those in need of essentials can visit the mini supermarkets and pharmacies located within the station. The station even went the extra mile to ensure comfort by providing lounges, including a 1st Class Lounge and an Assisted Travel Lounge, making it an amenable waiting experience.

Transport Links and Connectivity

Getting to and from Manchester Piccadilly is a breeze with its robust transport links. Metrolink trams connect you to key destinations like Bury, Rochdale, and Manchester Airport, among others. For those preferring buses, a network of frequent local services are operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach'. There's also a free bus service that runs every ten minutes around the city center—a convenient option for quick city hops.

The taxi rank located at the Fairfield Street exit offers service between 2 am to 5 am, giving you round-the-clock availability. If you're looking to explore the city on two wheels, Brompton bicycles are available for hire with two flexible tariffs. Additionally, if you're embarking on a flight, Manchester International Airport is just 9-10 miles away with several direct train services throughout the day. Car hire agents are also a short walk from the station, providing flexibility in travel.

Popular Destinations from Manchester Piccadilly

If you have a penchant for exploring, Manchester Piccadilly serves as the starting point for many fascinating journeys. The station offers direct links to major destinations such as London Euston, Liverpool Lime Street, and Glasgow Central. Local routes include convenient trips to nearby spots like Stockport and Manchester Airport, ensuring you're never far from a new adventure.

Your Gateway to Adventure

Whether your travels stem from business, leisure, or curiosity, Manchester Piccadilly is more than just a train station—it's a gateway to new experiences and connections. Leveraging its exceptional facilities and detailed information will set you up for a successful journey, unlocking the vast and vibrant landscapes of the UK. Don't just arrive; embark on your journey with enthusiasm and ease from Manchester Piccadilly, where the rhythm of the railways meets the heartbeat of the city.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Gatwick Airport