Getting from Preston to Wigan by train
Travelling from Preston to Wigan by train is a convenient way to move between two well-connected Lancashire towns without needing a car. It works well for commuting, match days, shopping trips, university travel, and onward connections to Manchester, Liverpool, and the coast.
On the journey, you can look out over flat farmland, canal corridors, and open Lancashire countryside between the towns.
You can get from Preston to Wigan in as little as 11 minutes, so you can travel from one city centre to another quickly and affordably, with tickets from as little as £8.50.
Find the cheapest train tickets from Preston to Wigan
To make the most of your trip, you don’t want to spend all your budget on getting there. To help you get the most out of your money, we offer a range of cheap train tickets and discounts to Railcard holders, seniors, and group travellers.
Whether you’re travelling in Peak, Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak hours, we will help you find a ticket at the right price at a departure time that suits you.
Plus, if you’re heading away for a short break, we offer a range of 2 For 1 offers to attractions and events, so you can find a deal to make your visit really special.
For regular travellers or commuters, we have a range of Season Tickets, benefits, and reward schemes that can help you save money or even upgrade to First Class.
Travelling in comfort with Avanti
Settle in for a wonderfully comfortable journey from Preston to Wigan, with plenty to enjoy both on board and out of the window. Enjoy the view from our big reclining seats as you’re driven the 15 miles to your destination.
Stay connected on the go with our fast, reliable WiFi, perfect for catching up on emails or the latest headlines. With power sockets at every seat and a choice of tasty snacks and drinks, you’ll arrive feeling energised and ready for what’s next.
Make your journey even more relaxing by booking advance tickets. This way, you’ll get the cheapest ticket with a departure time that suits you. Or, if you’re making a last-minute trip, you can use our Live Train Status Tracker to check that your train is running on schedule.
Travelling from Preston?
Embedded in the heart of Lancashire, Preston is a great place to visit. You can spend time around Fishergate, visit The Harris, and walk through Avenham and Miller Parks beside the River Ribble. There are also cafés, pubs and shops in the centre, so it is easy to build a few hours into your visit before heading to the station.
The city also works well as a base for wider days out in Lancashire. Deepdale Stadium is close by for football, while the city centre has venues for live events, food, and culture throughout the year. Preston also gives you a good starting point for trips towards the Ribble Valley, the Fylde coast and surrounding market towns.
Getting to Preston Station is straightforward on foot from the city centre, and local buses and taxis stop nearby. The station is close to Fishergate shops, hotels and central offices, so it is simple to reach before departure.
Travelling to Wigan?
Wigan offers more than a quick town-centre stop. You can visit Wigan Pier and the Canal Quarter, explore the town’s industrial past, and spend time in the redeveloped waterfront areas near the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The centre also has shopping streets, cafés, and pubs that make it easy to shape a relaxed day out.
For something different, you can head beyond the busiest streets and focus on Wigan’s cultural and outdoor side. The Old Courts hosts live music, comedy, and events, while Mesnes Park gives you a quieter change of pace close to the centre. If you have more time, Haigh Woodland Park is a great option for walking trails, woodland, and open views.
From Wigan station, onward travel is easy by taxi, local bus, or connecting rail services across the North West. The station is close to the town centre, with shops, places to eat, and other everyday amenities nearby.
First Class service
If you’d like a more luxurious and relaxing journey from Preston to Wigan, you can upgrade to First Class with Avanti West Coast.
Complimentary snacks and drinks, a wider seat, a guaranteed table and socket and more leg-stretching room. These are the benefits of upgrading to First Class with Avanti West Coast. Find out everything about First Class train tickets here.
