Leicester to Manchester bus with National Express

Tue, Mar 03
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Leicester to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Mar 04

Cheapest price

$12

Average price

$23

Fastest journey

3 h 40 m

Average duration

4 h 50 m

Buses per day

3

Distance

119 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Leicester to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Leicester to Manchester will cost around $23 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.

Fast buses

Of the 3 buses that leave Leicester for Manchester on Wed, Mar 04, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Mar 04 the direct buses cover the 119 km distance in an average of 4 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .

On Wed, Mar 04 the slowest buses will take 6 h 20 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.

FlixBus
04:10PM3h40
Leicester
07:50PMManchester
$121One-way
0 transfers
National Express
04:00PM4h30
Leicester
08:30PMManchester
$241One-way
0 transfers
National Express
11:45PM6h20
Leicester
06:05AMManchester
$341One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Leicester to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $10, and a train costs an average of $20.

Distance: 73 miles (119 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

$21

Average price

Cheapest

$59

Average price

4h 15m

Average total duration

3h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Leicester to Manchester Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:30AM
Arrival Time
07:35AM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
10:10AM
Duration
4h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:20AM
Arrival Time
02:20PM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:45AM
Arrival Time
02:10PM
Duration
5h25
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:55AM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
5h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
4h55
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$35
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:50AM
Arrival Time
02:20PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:05AM
Arrival Time
03:30PM
Duration
5h25
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:35AM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
4h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:45PM
Arrival Time
05:25PM
Duration
4h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
04:40PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$12
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:10PM
Arrival Time
04:50PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:55PM
Arrival Time
07:20PM
Duration
5h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
07:35PM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:55PM
Arrival Time
08:20PM
Duration
4h25
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
07:40PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
08:30PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:25PM
Arrival Time
09:20PM
Duration
4h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
09:00PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$21
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
09:20PM
Duration
4h10
Departure days
Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:55PM
Arrival Time
11:10PM
Duration
5h15
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05PM
Arrival Time
11:10PM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:05PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
5h10
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$35
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:15PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
5h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:45PM
Arrival Time
06:05AM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
08:25AM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34

Live departures

Leicester to Manchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Manchester buses for today, Tuesday, March 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 6:13 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressNX183 · NX1718:55 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h00
1:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
national_expressNX150 · NX120
On time
9:50 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h30
2:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station
1 transfer
national_expressNX151 · NX12112:45 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h55
5:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus4:00 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
3h40
7:40 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange0 transfersDirect
national_expressNX150 · NX120
On time
4:00 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h30
8:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station
1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus4:25 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
4h55
9:20 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
national_expressNX183 · NX1818:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h00
1:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
national_expressNX180 · NX17111:55 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
8h25
8:20 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Manchester by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Tue
Mar 03
Wed
Mar 04
Thu
Mar 05
Fri
Mar 06
Sat
Mar 07
Sun
Mar 08
Mon
Mar 09

Why should you book Leicester to Manchester buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus, Megabus, Arriva Midlands and more offer buses services from Leicester to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester 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 FlixBus, Megabus or Arriva Midlands to find the best option for your trip from Leicester 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Megabus or Arriva Midlands to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Leicester to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Leicester to Manchester run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $10 (€8) if you book in advance.

There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 73 miles (119 km) distance in 3h 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
73 miles (119 km)
Average bus duration
3h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$10 (€8)
Buses per day
13
Direct buses
1
Fastest bus
3h 40m
First bus
00:05
Last bus
23:55
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, FlixBus, Megabus, Arriva Midlands from Leicester to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Leicester to Manchester with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus, Arriva Midlands for as low as $10 (€8). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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 Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$10 (€8)
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 Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
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
4h 55m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
Megabus frequency
3 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.

Arriva Midlands

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Arriva Midlands frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Bus from Leicester to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Leicester to Manchester can start from as little as $10 (€8) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Leicester to Manchester is $21 (€17) ; 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 Leicester to Manchester is 3h 40m to travel the 73 miles (119 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 Leicester to Manchester leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Leicester to Manchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Leicester to Manchester with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Leicester to Manchester, you can count on National Express, FlixBus, Megabus, Arriva Midlands for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Leicester and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Manchester from Leicester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Leicester to Manchester is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Manchester including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Leicester 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.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Leicester to Manchester for bus company National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
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 Leicester 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.
  • 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 National Express, FlixBus.
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 Leicester to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Leicester 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.
  • 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 Leicester 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.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Leicester to Manchester. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Leicester to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Leicester to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Leicester to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Leicester to Manchester

Leicester
Manchester
The major bus station for departures in Leicester is Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station for your trip from Leicester to Manchester.
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
information
Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)

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