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Trains from Manchester Stations to
Watford Junction

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Manchester Stations to Watford Junction by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction? The trip usually takes about 2hrs 52 mins, covering approximately 147 miles (237 kilometres). With roughly 36 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £34.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Manchester Stations to Watford Junction Key Stats

Arrival Station

Watford Junction

Departure Station

Manchester Stations

Frequency

36trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 1 mins

Changes

03 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:05 / 00:29

Distance

147miles
(237 km)

7 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction by Train

Jump on a Train from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 2hrs 52 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Stations, the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 1 mins. With approximately 36 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 147-mile (237 km) route usually requires just one change, with Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Northern Rail, West Midlands Trains providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £34.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Watford Junction!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction

Curious about your trip from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction? 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 Manchester Stations and Watford Junction by train?

The travel time between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 52 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 1 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction is 2hrs 1 mins.

How much does the train from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction cost?

Train ticket prices from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction can start from as little as £34.00 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 Manchester Stations and Watford Junction?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 36 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:05, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:29.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction?

First class tickets on trains between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction?

Amenities on trains between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Watford Junction, 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 Manchester Stations to Watford Junction?

Yes! There are usually around 3 direct services per day from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction

What train companies run services from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction?

Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Northern Rail and West Midlands Trains are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Stations and Watford Junction?

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

When are Manchester Stations to Watford Junction Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Manchester Stations to Watford Junction 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
06:15 Manchester Piccadilly08:46 Watford Junction1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
06:30 Manchester Piccadilly09:29 Watford Junction1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
07:15 Manchester Piccadilly09:33 Watford Junction1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
07:35 Manchester Piccadilly10:29 Watford Junction1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
08:15 Manchester Piccadilly10:33 Watford Junction1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
08:35 Manchester Piccadilly11:29 Watford Junction1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
09:15 Manchester Piccadilly11:33 Watford Junction1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
09:35 Manchester Piccadilly12:29 Watford Junction1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
10:15 Manchester Piccadilly12:33 Watford Junction1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
10:35 Manchester Piccadilly13:29 Watford Junction1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
11:15 Manchester Piccadilly13:33 Watford Junction1 changeMilton Keynes Central
2 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
11:35 Manchester Piccadilly14:29 Watford Junction1 changeLondon Euston
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Stations to Watford Junction 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 Manchester Stations to Watford Junction start from as little as £34.00

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 Manchester Stations to Watford Junction start from £76.30 one way, or £109.00 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 Manchester Stations to Watford Junction are available for £184.70 one way, or £369.40 return

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

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

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

Manchester Stations

The following stations are part of this group. Click a station for more information.

Everything you need to know about Watford Junction Station

Welcome to Watford Junction: Your Gateway to Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire, Watford Junction is much more than a train station—it's a hive of connectivity and convenience that's ready to whisk you away to your next destination. As one of the busiest stations in the UK, it serves as a crucial hub for both local commuters and long-distance travelers. Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, understanding what Watford Junction has to offer can enhance your travel experience. Let's dive into its many features, facilities, and links to exciting destinations.

Facilities at Watford Junction: Meeting Every Need

Watford Junction is designed with the traveler in mind, offering a host of facilities to ensure a seamless journey. The ticket office is operational from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM every day except Sunday when it opens at 6:30 AM—ideal for early risers and night owls alike. If you've purchased tickets online, you can conveniently collect them at the ticket machines located in the booking hall. For those requiring assistance, an induction loop is available, enhancing accessibility for travelers with hearing aids.

Step-free access throughout the station ensures it is user-friendly for all, including individuals with reduced mobility. Accessible toilets operated with a RADAR key are available, and assistance can be booked in advance for anyone needing extra help. For those using wheeled transport, ramps are available for train access, and there's a dedicated area with 19 accessible parking spaces in the car park.

Shopping and Refreshment Options

As you await your train, enjoy a variety of refreshment facilities available on-site. Grab a quick bite or a cup of coffee from one of the shops, and find an ATM machine for any last-minute cash needs. Although there is no public Wi-Fi, the fully stocked amenities ensure a comfortable wait. Unfortunately, there is no waiting room service, but seating areas are available.

Travel Connections at Watford Junction

One of the key attributes of Watford Junction is its extensive transport links. Should your journey require bus services, rail replacement buses operate from Bus Stop 1, and detailed onward travel information can be printed from available resources. There's even a direct bus connection to Heathrow Airport, making international travel hassle-free. Taxis and car hire services are readily accessible, ensuring you have multiple travel options at your disposal.

Popular Routes: Discover New Horizons

Venturing from Watford Junction is incredibly straightforward with an array of popular travel routes. Why not catch a train to the bustling heart of London and explore iconic sites by heading to London Euston? For a more localized experience, consider traveling to Harrow and Wealdstone or the lively Wembley Central. Dreaming of cultural hubs beyond the city? Take a ride over to Birmingham New Street, the gateway to the Midlands.

From local connections like Hemel Hempstead to grand journeys to Milton Keynes Central, Watford Junction is your starting point for adventure.

Stepping Into the Future

With its strategic location and impressive array of facilities and links, Watford Junction is not just a railway station—it's a community cornerstone and a starting point for so many adventures. Plan your next journey with confidence, knowing you're backed by robust services and extensive travel options. Whether your heart is set on the vibrancy of London or the picturesque countryside, Watford Junction gets you there efficiently. As with any travel plans, booking in advance can often secure the best ticket prices, and the convenience of digital tickets means you can board with ease.

So why wait? Embrace the possibilities with Watford Junction as your trusted guide. Safe travels!