- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Ipswich to Manchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 22
Cheapest price on Oct 22
$87
Average ticket price on Oct 22
$98
Fastest journey on Oct 22
8 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Oct 22
9 h 47 m
Buses on Oct 22
9
Distance
278 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Ipswich to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ipswich to Manchester will cost around $98 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Ipswich to Manchester without transferring at least 2 times.
NX717 · NXA6 · NX5402:00 AM10h10Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)12:10 PMManchester, Coach Station$871One-way2 transfers- NX717 · NXA8 · NX5402:00 AM10h10Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)12:10 PMManchester, Coach Station$871One-way2 transfers
- NX717 · NXA8 · NX4218:50 PM10h45Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)7:35 AMManchester, Coach Station$921One-way2 transfers
- NX717 · NXA8 · NX4218:50 PM10h45Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)7:35 AMManchester, Coach Station$921One-way2 transfers
- NX717 · NX777 · NX12011:15 AM9h00Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)8:15 PMManchester, Coach Station$1011One-way2 transfers
- NX717 · NX737 · NX5405:00 AM8h50Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)1:50 PMManchester, Coach Station$1081One-way2 transfers
- NX717 · NX777 · NX12011:15 AM9h00Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)8:15 PMManchester, Coach Station$1011One-way2 transfers
- NX717 · NXA6 · NX5402:00 AM10h10Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)12:10 PMManchester, Coach Station$871One-way2 transfers
- NX717 · NXA8 · NX5402:00 AM10h10Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)12:10 PMManchester, Coach Station$871One-way2 transfers
- NX717 · NXA8 · NX4218:50 PM10h45Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)7:35 AMManchester, Coach Station$921One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Ipswich to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Ipswich to Manchester run on average 9 times per day, taking around 7h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€36) but you can travel from only $39 (€33) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 6h 32m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $39 (€33)
Distance 172 miles (278 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€36) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 6h 32m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $39 (€33)
Frequently asked questions about your Ipswich to Manchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Ipswich to Manchester.
Cheap bus tickets from Ipswich to Manchester can start from as little as $43 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Ipswich to Manchester is $92 (€77) ; 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 Ipswich to Manchester leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Ipswich to Manchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Ipswich to Manchester which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Ipswich to Manchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:30AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 02:15AM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 10h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $79 |
Live departures
Ipswich to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Ipswich to Manchester buses for today, Wednesday, October 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX717 · NXA8 · NX421 | 8:50 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 10h45 | 7:35 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX717 · NXA8 · NX421 | 8:50 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 10h45 | 7:35 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| Thursday, October 22 | |||||
| NX717 · NXA6 · NX540 | 2:00 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 10h10 | 12:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX717 · NXA8 · NX540 | 2:00 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 10h10 | 12:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX717 · NX737 · NX540 | 5:00 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 8h50 | 1:50 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX717 · NX777 · NX541 | 8:00 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 11h30 | 7:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX717 · NX777 · NX120 | 11:15 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 9h00 | 8:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX717 · NX777 · NX541 | 1:30 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 10h55 | 12:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX717 · NX777 · NX424 | 6:05 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 12h00 | 6:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Ipswich to Manchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Ipswich to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich to Manchester.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ipswich to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Ipswich to Manchester.
Bus providers: National Express from Ipswich to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Ipswich to Manchester with National Express for as low as $39 (€33). 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 National Express Duration
6h 32m
Cheapest National Express Price
$43 (€36)
National Express frequency
9 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 Ipswich and Manchester
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 Ipswich to Manchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Ipswich and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Ipswich to Manchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Ipswich to Manchester for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Ipswich to Manchester 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Ipswich to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Ipswich to Manchester:
- 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 Ipswich to Manchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Ipswich to Manchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Ipswich to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Ipswich to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Ipswich to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express.
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 Art Gallery
Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side district with Roman remains, warehouses, and walkable towpaths. One of Manchester's most atmospheric urban areas.
- Must visit
Albert Square
Central square framed by grand civic buildings, museums, and monuments. A classic starting point for exploring the city centre.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Creative quarter of street art, music history, indie shops, and nightlife. It is one of Manchester's most characterful neighborhoods.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Curry Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with spiced potatoes, onion and often chickpeas. Created by Manchester’s South Asian community and now a city staple.
Steak and Onion Pudding
A comforting Northern pudding of suet pastry filled with beef and onion, traditionally steamed and served with gravy. Common in Greater Manchester pubs.
Fish and Chips
Manchester’s classic order of battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and curry sauce. A long-standing local takeaway favourite.
Slattery
Iconic market bakery and café known for Manchester tarts, Eccles cakes and hearty lunches. Casual, busy and deeply rooted in local food culture.
Mana
Refined modern British fine dining in a restored townhouse. Known for tasting menus, polished service and one of Manchester’s top culinary reputations.
Mughli
Lively Indian restaurant famous for bold curries, grills and chaat. A long-established Rusholme favourite with a casual, energetic atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Plan your visit to Manchester
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 Manchester.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Ipswich to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Manchester can start from as little as $43 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Ipswich to Manchester is $92 (€77) ; 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 Ipswich to Manchester is 6h 32m to travel the 172 miles (278 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 Ipswich to Manchester leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Ipswich to Manchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Ipswich to Manchester which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Ipswich to Manchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Ipswich and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Ipswich and Manchester including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Ipswich to Manchester for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Ipswich to Manchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Ipswich to Manchester 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.
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 Ipswich to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Ipswich to Manchester:
- 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 Ipswich to Manchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Ipswich to Manchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Ipswich to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Ipswich to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Ipswich to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express.
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 Ipswich to Manchester
Most Ipswich to Manchester buses use the Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) to Manchester, Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Ipswich and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Ipswich
Arrival bus stations in Manchester
Which Ipswich station do buses to Manchester leave from?
Buses from Ipswich to Manchester leave from Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Ipswich city centre at Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UK.
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) from Ipswich city centre
TRUE
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) bus station facilities and services
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) 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 near Cardinal Park Cinema.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). ATMs are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Bus stop accessible for wheelchairs.
Which Manchester station do buses from Ipswich arrive at?
Buses from Ipswich to Manchester arrive at Manchester, Coach Station. Manchester, Coach Station is from Manchester city centre.
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 · $3 · 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.
Bus stations for Ipswich to Manchester
Check bus stations information for Ipswich and Manchester, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Ipswich
More options for your journey from Ipswich to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Ipswich
Most popular bus connections to Manchester
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