One of the leading international airports in Northern England, Manchester Airport offers easy onward travel to York for both tourists and locals alike, with trains from Manchester Airport to York in just 1 hour and 52 minutes with TransPennine Express.
Onboard your Manchester to York train with TransPennine Express, you’ll journey through historic mill towns and catch glimpses from your window of the dramatic Pennine peaks as well as the Peak District National Park.
TransPennine Express provides fast intercity services across the North of England and into Scotland, linking major cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, York, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Departing from Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport station is situated within the airport complex, and is within easy walking distance from all terminals via the Skylink footbridges.
Managed by TransPennine Express, the station offers step-free access to all platforms, making it fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility, It is equipped with waiting rooms, accessible toilets, ticket machines, and customer help points. Manchester Airport station provides regular train services to Manchester Piccadilly, as well as Liverpool Lime Street, Llandudno, Leeds, York and Newcastle.
The primary rail operators from Manchester Airport are TransPennine Express, Northern and Transport for Wales, together providing comprehensive coverage of North Wales, the North East and North West of England, as well as further north into Scotland. Station facilities include public Wi-Fi, left luggage, baby changing, and luggage trolleys, and Manchester Airport station can also be easily reached by bus, taxi and car.
Main stops
Trains depart from Manchester Airport to Manchester Piccadilly approximately every 10 minutes, and following a quick change at Manchester’s Piccadilly station, your Manchester to York train will pass through Stalybridge, Huddersfield, Wakefield Kirkgate, and Castleford. Stops may vary depending on the operator and departure time.
Arriving at York
York Station is located just outside the medieval city walls, but, at just 15 minutes, within easy walking distance of the city centre, making it an ideal entry point for visitors to discover York’s rich cultural history.
Regular train services connect York to major UK cities, including London, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Leeds, making it a convenient hub for onward travel up and down the country. Visitors can also head out on day trips to explore popular destinations across Yorkshire, including Knaresborough, Harrogate, Scarborough and Whitby.
Once you arrive in York station, you’re just minutes away from York’s historic heart. You can walk in (and smell) the footsteps of Vikings at the JORVIK Viking Centre, marvel at the Gothic grandeur of York Minster, and wander the medieval Shambles with its timber-framed buildings. Don't miss the York Castle Museum and a stroll along the city walls for panoramic views of this unique city.
TransPennine Express train classes
- Standard Class: Travelling in Standard Class includes free Wi-Fi on most services as well as plug sockets at table seats, and a range of snacks and drinks onboard.
- First Class: With spacious reclining seats, generous legroom, free Wi-Fi, and power at every seat, travelling from Manchester Airport to York First Class ensures a little extra comfort. Many services also include complimentary drinks and snacks, and there are often weekend upgrades starting from just £10.
TransPennine Express train travel advice
To make sure you’re fully prepared for your Manchester Airport to York train ride, here’s all the information you might need for your journey, including luggage allowance, storage facilities, travelling with children and pets, and assisted travel.
- Luggage: You are allowed to bring up to three items per person, such as suitcases, backpacks, and carry-on bags, free of charge. Onboard, larger items should be stored in luggage racks, overhead compartments or under your seat to ensure aisles and doorways are kept clear.
- Bicycles: Bikes and e-bikes are welcome, providing you reserve in advance. You can make a reservation for your bike up to 15 minutes before departure. Folding bikes do not require reservations and e-scooters are not permitted on any service.
- Children: Kids under 5 travel for free, while those between 5–15 only pay half-price. Sixteen- and seventeen-year-olds can also enjoy 50% off with the 16–17 Saver railcard. Baby-changing facilities and accessible seating are available on select trains and at most major stations.
- Pets: You can travel with up to two small pets at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead, and small animals should be transported in a secure carrier. Pets are not allowed on seats.
- Passenger Assist: Older passengers and travellers with reduced mobility or additional needs can request assistance with boarding and alighting trains, lifting luggage, and navigating both larger stations or where stations have no step-free access. Book assistance through Passenger Assist when purchasing your ticket, or speak to staff at the station on the day of travel.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.