Is there a direct train?

No, you must change at Edinburgh Waverley.

How far is Leuchars from St Andrews?

It is approximately 5 miles or a 15-minute bus ride.

Which train operator is best?

Avanti West Coast provides the fastest direct link to Preston.

Are there tolls on this route?

No, there are no toll roads on the M6 or M74.

Yes, but you must reserve a space on the train in advance.

St Andrews

Preston

Train Driving

St Andrews to Preston

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from St Andrews to Preston covers approximately 320 kilometers. You must first take a local bus or taxi to Leuchars Station. From Leuchars, board an LNER or ScotRail service to Edinburgh Waverley. Transfer to an Avanti West Coast train heading south toward Preston. This route utilizes the West Coast Main Line for the final leg.

Total Distance: 320 km driving distance, 260 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Driving takes 4 hours 30 minutes depending on M6 traffic conditions.

Cheapest Way

Train, if booked as an Advance ticket, costs around 45 GBP.

Compare St Andrews to Preston Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 15 mins	4 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	45 GBP - 120 GBP	60 GBP fuel
Operator	Avanti West Coast	N/A
Route	Leuchars to Edinburgh Waverley, then Edinburgh to Preston.	A91 to M90, then M74 and M6 south.
Tip	Book your tickets via the Trainline app at least 12 weeks in advance for significant savings.	Be prepared for heavy traffic near the M6/M74 border crossing during peak hours.

Travel Tips

Leuchars Station
Always check the bus connection from St Andrews town center to Leuchars as it is 5 miles away.
Seat Reservations
Reserve a seat on the Avanti West Coast service to ensure a comfortable journey.
Wi-Fi Access
Trains offer free Wi-Fi, but signal can be spotty in the Scottish Borders.
Luggage
Use the overhead racks on trains; space is limited for large suitcases.
Station Facilities
Edinburgh Waverley has extensive food options for your transfer.

Safety Tips

Platform Safety
Stand behind the yellow line at all times on busy platforms.
Personal Belongings
Keep your bags in sight during the entire train journey.
Emergency Contacts
Save the British Transport Police text number 61016 for any concerns.
Night Travel
Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas near Preston station late at night.