TransPennine Express
TransPennine Express runs intercity trains across the North of England and into Scotland, linking Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Official website
- Official website
- Train tickets
- Direct
TransPennine Express connects cities rather than running a dense local network. Think Manchester to Glasgow, not the next village along. That makes it the natural choice for a longer cross-country hop across the North of England and into Scotland.
Where TransPennine Express runs
Core routes include Manchester Piccadilly to Glasgow Central and to Edinburgh, Leeds to Manchester Piccadilly, Newcastle to Leeds, and Sheffield to Manchester Airport, alongside shorter links such as Leeds to Huddersfield and Leeds to York. Because the network reaches both Glasgow and Edinburgh, it's a practical way to cross the border without switching operators partway through the trip.
Tickets and fares
Advance tickets go on sale up to 24 weeks before travel on selected routes; a Leeds to Manchester Airport single advance ticket was listed from £13.50. TransPennine Express also sells Anytime and Off-Peak fares, and Railcards bring a discount where eligible.
First Class
First Class comes with Wi-Fi, power sockets and USB ports at every seat, plus complimentary drinks, snacks and meals on many services, depending on route and time of day. Onboard catering typically runs 07:00 to 18:30 on weekdays and 09:00 to 18:30 at weekends. On Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays, an unreserved First Class seat can be upgraded on the day for £10 to £25 per person under the Weekend First offer. No Railcard or child discount applies to that upgrade. On a weekday, the upgrade cost varies by journey; the conductor sets the price on board.
Travelling with a dog
Dogs travel free anywhere on board, First Class included, with up to two dogs per passenger allowed on a lead for the journey. Smaller pets need a carrier. Guide and hearing dogs are always welcome.
Where to book
Train tickets
- Buy direct from TransPennine Express
TransPennine Express
Frequently asked questions
Where does TransPennine Express run?
It links major cities across the North of England and into Scotland, including Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow, rather than covering a dense local network.
How far ahead can I book Advance tickets?
Advance tickets go on sale up to 24 weeks before travel on selected routes.
How much does a First Class upgrade cost?
On Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays, an unreserved First Class seat can be upgraded on the day for £10 to £25 per person through the Weekend First offer. On a weekday the cost varies by journey and is set by the conductor.
Can I bring my dog on a TransPennine Express train?
Yes, dogs travel free anywhere on board, First Class included, with up to two dogs per passenger allowed on a lead for the journey.
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Official website
