London to Preston (Lancashire) from $23: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• Onboard services for the London to Preston route are primarily offered by Avanti West Coast. They provide a food and beverage service where you can order snacks and meals through their onboard menu. There is also a cafe bar offering a range of drinks, including coffee, alcoholic beverages, and light meals. Be sure to check their menu online prior to your trip if you have specific dietary requirements!

• The trains operated by Avanti West Coast provide both Standard (Economy) and First Class seating options. First Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages. Standard seating is comfortable but less spacious; however, it provides a good balance between affordability and comfort, especially if you travel at off-peak times. You can book your tickets and choose your seat on their official website: avantiwestcoast.co.uk

• Upon arriving at Preston railway station, you can leave your luggage at the station. Preston has luggage storage services available. The station also offers public restrooms, but showers are not available. To get from the station to the city center, the fastest option is to take the bus. Look for bus number 3 or 4, which regularly travel to the city center and take approximately 10-15 minutes.

• Book a morning flight from London Heathrow Airport to Manchester Airport, as early departures are less likely to be affected by delays and you can enjoy a higher chance of catching some stunning sunrise views over the English countryside.

• Upon arrival at Manchester Airport, follow signs for 'Train Station' to easily navigate to the train service that connects you directly to Preston, as taking the train is not only faster but also provides a scenic route through Lancashire.

• Expect taxi fare from Manchester Airport to Preston city center to be around £40-£60, and consider pre-booking your ride for a smoother start to your trip; alternatively, check out local train schedules at TransPennine Express for a more affordable transport option.

• Consider booking your Megabus UK ticket online in advance to secure the best fares, as prices can vary greatly and may range from £17 to £26. You can check schedules and book your ticket at Megabus UK.

• Plan to arrive at London Victoria Station at least 30 minutes before departure to navigate through the station easily; it can get quite busy, especially during peak travel times, and ensure you find the correct platform for your bus.

• Upon arriving at Preston Coach Station, take a moment to review the station map for local transport options, such as buses and taxis, which can help you quickly reach your final destination. More information about the station’s amenities can be found at Preston Coach Station Information.