- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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 Birmingham to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$17
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$17
Fastest journey on Oct 29
3 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
5 h 33 m
Buses on Oct 29
4
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Birmingham to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Preston will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Fast buses
On Thu, Oct 29, we found 4 buses from Birmingham to Preston, including 2 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 29 the direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 5 h 33 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 25 m .
On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest buses will take 7 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
NX4243:25 AM 3h45 Birmingham, Coach Station 7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station $17 1 One-way 0 transfers- NX181
11:00 PM 3h25 Birmingham, Coach Station 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station $17 1 One-way 0 transfers - NX541 · NX424
11:40 PM 7h30 Birmingham, Coach Station 7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station $17 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX541 · NX540 · RL152
3:20 PM 7h30 Birmingham, Coach Station 10:50 PM Preston, Bus Station $19 1 One-way 2 transfers
- NX181
11:00 PM 3h25 Birmingham, Coach Station 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station $17 1 One-way 0 transfers - NX424
3:25 AM 3h45 Birmingham, Coach Station 7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station $17 1 One-way 0 transfers - NX541 · NX424
11:40 PM 7h30 Birmingham, Coach Station 7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station $17 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX541 · NX540 · RL152
3:20 PM 7h30 Birmingham, Coach Station 10:50 PM Preston, Bus Station $19 1 One-way 2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Birmingham to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Birmingham to Preston run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $14 (€12) if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 02:00, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 3h 0m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance95 miles (153 km)
- Average bus duration3h 36m
- Cheapest ticket price$14 (€12)
- Buses per day4
- Direct buses3
- Fastest bus3h 0m
- First bus2:00 AM
- Last bus11:40 PM
- Cheapest MonthNov
- Cheapest DayTue
- High SeasonApr - Jun
- Low SeasonJul - Sep
- Busiest DayTue
- Least Busy DaySat
- Best time to book1 day
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your Birmingham to Preston trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Birmingham to Preston.
Cheap bus tickets from Birmingham to Preston can start from as little as $14 (€12) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Birmingham to Preston is $29 (€24) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Birmingham to Preston leaves at 2:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Birmingham to Preston leaves at 11:40 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Birmingham to Preston with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Birmingham to Preston Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:40PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $17 |
Live departures
Birmingham to Preston bus times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Preston buses for today, Wednesday, October 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX541 · NX540 · RL152 | 3:20 PM Birmingham, Coach Station | 7h30 | 10:50 PM Preston, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX181 | 11:00 PM Birmingham, Coach Station | 3h25 | 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX541 · NX424 | 11:40 PM Birmingham, Coach Station | 7h30 | 7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, October 29 | |||||
| NX424 | 3:25 AM Birmingham, Coach Station | 3h45 | 7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Birmingham to Preston buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer buses services from Birmingham to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Preston.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Preston.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Birmingham to Preston
Buses from Birmingham to Preston with National Express and FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with National Express and FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$14 (€12)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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 National Express Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
$20 (€17)
National Express frequency
3 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Birmingham and Preston
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Birmingham to Preston, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Preston. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Birmingham and Preston and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Birmingham to Preston:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Birmingham to Preston for bus company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Birmingham to Preston depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Birmingham to Preston.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Birmingham to Preston:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Birmingham to Preston:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Birmingham to Preston. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Birmingham to Preston with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Birmingham to Preston with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Birmingham to Preston with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Preston Bus Station -> Preston Railway Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 14 min
- Most local buses in Preston accept contactless card payment; buy before boarding only if your operator requires it.
- Preston Bus Station is the main hub for city services; check your operator in advance because fares and tickets vary by company.
Plan your visit to Preston
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Preston.
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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Birmingham to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Preston including taking a bus and train.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Birmingham to Preston
Most Birmingham to Preston buses use the Birmingham, Coach Station to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Preston bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Birmingham
Arrival bus stations in Preston
Which Birmingham station do buses to Preston leave from?
Buses from Birmingham to Preston leave from Birmingham, Coach Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Birmingham city centre at Mill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DD, United Kingdom.
Birmingham, Coach StationMill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DD, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham, Coach Station from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham, Coach Station is 1 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4, 97, 6, X2, 3, 97A, 2, 4A, 5, X1 · 4m · $3 · every ~191 min
X2, 4A, X1, 2, 3, 6, 4, 5 · 13m · $3 · every ~149 min
Birmingham, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Birmingham, 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: Cafeteria and fast-food options inside the station
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
Birmingham, Great Charles Street QueenswayGreat Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway from Birmingham city centre
Bus822, X8, 12, 24, 126, 13, 23, X10, 829, 9 · 2m · $3 · every ~153 min
Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway bus station facilities and services
Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway. ATMs are available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway: Bus stops are wheelchair accessible.
Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport)Comet Rd, Birmingham B26, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport) from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport) is 1 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 14m · $6 · every ~8 min
BusUk920, Uk025 · 25m · $2
X1 · 27m · $5 · every ~5 min
X1 · 29m · $5 · every ~5 min
X12 · 1h 10m · $5 · every ~8 min
Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport) bus station facilities and services
Birmingham, Comet Road (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: Restaurants available in the airport terminal.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi available. ATMs are aTMs available inside the airport terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport): Facilities accessible for disabled persons.
Which Preston station do buses from Birmingham arrive at?
Buses from Birmingham to Preston arrive at Preston, Bus Station. Preston, Bus Station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · $11 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bus stations for Birmingham to Preston
Check bus stations information for Birmingham and Preston, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Birmingham , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Birmingham, Coach Station, Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport) . When arriving in Preston , you can end your journey in bus stations like Preston, Bus Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Birmingham, Coach Station, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Preston, Bus Station, located 2 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Birmingham
Most popular buses to and from Preston and Birmingham
Most popular bus connections to Preston
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.
