- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Major museum exploring Manchester’s role in science, technology and industry, with historic machinery and railway heritage on the oldest surviving passenger railway station site.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Barnstaple to Manchester
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
10 h 30 m
Average duration
10 h 30 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
294 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Barnstaple to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Barnstaple to Manchester will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Barnstaple to Manchester without transferring at least 2 times.
NX502 · NX101 · NX5418:40 AM10h30Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)7:10 PMManchester, Coach Station$781One-way2 transfers- NX502 · NX100 · NX5418:40 AM10h30Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)7:10 PMManchester, Coach Station$781One-way2 transfers
- NX502 · NX101 · NX5418:40 AM10h30Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)7:10 PMManchester, Coach Station$781One-way2 transfers
- NX502 · NX100 · NX5418:40 AM10h30Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)7:10 PMManchester, Coach Station$781One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Barnstaple to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Barnstaple to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $58. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $58, and a flight costs an average of $105.
Distance: 182 miles (294 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$67 Average price Cheapest | $135 Average price | $179 Average price | $93 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 27m Average total duration 7h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 25m Average total duration 5h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 11m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Barnstaple to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $67 (€55).
This is compared to other travel options from Barnstaple to Manchester:
A bus is $68 (€56) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Barnstaple to Manchester costing on average $135 (€111).
A bus is $112 (€91) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Barnstaple to Manchester costing on average $179 (€147).
The fastest way to travel from Barnstaple to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 55m.
Bus takes on average 7h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Barnstaple and Manchester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Barnstaple to Manchester among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Barnstaple to Manchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Live departures
Barnstaple to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Barnstaple to Manchester buses for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX502 · NX101 · NX541 | On time 8:40 AM Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) | 10h30 | 7:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX502 · NX100 · NX541 | On time 8:40 AM Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) | 10h30 | 7:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Barnstaple to Manchester by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Barnstaple to Manchester buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Barnstaple to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Barnstaple to Manchester.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Barnstaple to Manchester.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Barnstaple to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Barnstaple to Manchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Barnstaple to Manchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Barnstaple to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Barnstaple to Manchester run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 57m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $58 (€48) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:11, the last at 16:25. The fastest bus covers the 182 miles (294 km) distance in 9h 40m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 182 miles (294 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€48) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 9h 40m |
First bus 5:11 AM |
Last bus 4:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 49 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: National Express, Megabus from Barnstaple to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Barnstaple to Manchester with National Express, Megabus for as low as $58 (€48). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 40m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€48)
National Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 40m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
Megabus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
Complete guide to Manchester
Things to do in Manchester
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
University museum with acclaimed natural history, archaeology and cultural collections, recently refreshed and especially popular for its dinosaur and ancient Egypt displays.
- Must visit
Manchester Art Gallery
Central city gallery with fine art, design and decorative arts collections, plus changing exhibitions in a landmark civic building.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Manchester’s best-known creative district, packed with street art, independent shops and photogenic corners that are highly popular online.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Canalside heritage area with Roman roots, warehouses, waterside walks and one of the city’s most atmospheric urban landscapes.
- Recommended
Albert Square
Historic civic square framed by major Victorian architecture and often used for events, making it a classic city-centre stop.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Tart
A classic Manchester dessert with shortcrust pastry, raspberry jam, custard, coconut, and a cherry. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional sweet dishes.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A flaky pastry filled with currants, sugar, and butter, originating from Eccles in Greater Manchester. It is a famous regional bake often eaten with tea.
- Gluten-free
Black Pudding
A traditional blood sausage strongly associated with nearby Bury and widely eaten in Manchester, especially as part of a full breakfast.
Dishoom Manchester
A stylish and widely loved restaurant inspired by Bombay cafés, known for rich curries, grilled dishes, and a distinctive heritage interior.
Bundobust Manchester
A popular casual venue pairing Indian street food with craft beer. It is lively, well-known, and especially good for vegetarian diners.
The French
A celebrated fine-dining restaurant in Manchester known for modern British cooking, polished service, and an elegant setting inside The Midland hotel.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but central hotels and nightlife can be pricey.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service, but small tips are appreciated.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Manchester Airport, Manchester -> Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Bee Network buses in Greater Manchester have a GBP 2.00 single fare cap and a GBP 5.00 daily cap for adult travel.
- On trams and many rail services, contactless card payment is accepted; on buses, buy in the Bee Network app or check operator payment options before boarding.
FAQs: Bus from Barnstaple to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barnstaple to Manchester by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Barnstaple to Manchester can start from as little as $58 (€48) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Barnstaple to Manchester is $67 (€55) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Barnstaple to Manchester is 9h 40m to travel the 182 miles (294 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Barnstaple to Manchester leaves at 5:11 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Barnstaple to Manchester leaves at 4:25 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Barnstaple to Manchester which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Barnstaple to Manchester, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Barnstaple and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Manchester from Barnstaple is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Barnstaple to Manchester is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Barnstaple and Manchester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Barnstaple to Manchester for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Barnstaple to Manchester:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Manchester are:
- Manchester Art Gallery, a public art museum housing an extensive collection of fine art and decorative pieces
- Science and Industry Museum, an interactive museum exploring Manchester's industrial heritage and scientific achievements
- Manchester Cathedral, a historic Gothic-style cathedral known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere
- The John Rylands Library, a neo-Gothic library with an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts
- Castlefield, a historic area with Roman ruins and picturesque canals, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The best things to do in Manchester include:
- Old Trafford, the iconic football stadium and home to Manchester United, offering tours and a museum dedicated to the club's history
- The Northern Quarter, a vibrant district known for its independent shops, cafes, and street art
- Visit the Manchester Opera House for a captivating performance
- Explore the vibrant nightlife at Deansgate Locks, a popular area with bars and clubs
- Enjoy a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, offering beautiful landscapes and recreational activities.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Barnstaple to Manchester depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Barnstaple to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Barnstaple to Manchester:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Barnstaple to Manchester:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Barnstaple to Manchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Barnstaple to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Barnstaple to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Barnstaple to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Barnstaple nor Manchester are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Barnstaple to Manchester among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Barnstaple to Manchester
Most Barnstaple to Manchester buses use the Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Airport. Use this guide to compare Barnstaple and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Barnstaple
Arrival bus stations in Manchester
Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) from Barnstaple city centre
Bus301, 155, 21C, 29, 21B, 310, 309, 303, 19 · 3m · $2 · every ~10 min
Which Manchester station do buses from Barnstaple arrive at?
Buses from Barnstaple to Manchester most often arrive at Manchester, Coach Station. Some services arrive at Manchester, Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Manchester arrival station.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · $2 · every ~231 min
Manchester, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min
Manchester, Airport bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Most popular bus connections from Barnstaple
More options for your journey from Barnstaple to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Barnstaple
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
