Leicester to Manchester bus with National Express

Thu, Oct 15
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Leicester to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 15

Cheapest price on Oct 15

$14

Average ticket price on Oct 15

$27

Fastest journey on Oct 15

3 h 40 m

Average journey duration on Oct 15

3 h 50 m

Buses on Oct 15

20

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 $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.

Fast buses

On Thu, Oct 15, we found 20 buses from Leicester to Manchester, including 3 direct services.

On Thu, Oct 15 the direct buses cover the 119 km distance in an average of 3 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .

On Thu, Oct 15 the slowest buses will take 4 h 5 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    1:10 PM3h40
    Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    4:50 PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
    $141One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    6:00 AM3h40
    Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    9:40 AMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
    $141One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    4:10 PM3h40
    Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    7:50 PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
    $141One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    3:40 PM4h20
    Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
    8:00 PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
    $211One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    4:40 PM4h40
    Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
    9:20 PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
    $211One-way
    1 transfer

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 16 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) if you book in advance.

There are 2 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 2h 50m.

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 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$8 (€7)
Buses per day
16
Direct buses
2
Fastest bus
2h 50m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
6 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

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, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
09:55AM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:00AM
Arrival Time
09:40AM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$11
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:55AM
Arrival Time
02:53PM
Duration
5h58
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
01:25PM
Duration
4h25
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:50AM
Arrival Time
03:20PM
Duration
5h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:05AM
Arrival Time
02:10PM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:35AM
Arrival Time
04:40PM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:05PM
Arrival Time
04:00PM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
4h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
06:43PM
Duration
6h13
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:40PM
Arrival Time
06:43PM
Duration
6h03
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:45PM
Arrival Time
05:20PM
Duration
4h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:10PM
Arrival Time
04:50PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$11
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:55PM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
07:40PM
Duration
5h40
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:40PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
4h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:55PM
Arrival Time
08:05PM
Duration
4h10
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
08:50PM
Duration
4h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:10PM
Arrival Time
07:50PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$11
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
09:00PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:40PM
Arrival Time
09:20PM
Duration
4h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:55PM
Arrival Time
10:30PM
Duration
4h35
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05PM
Arrival Time
10:55PM
Duration
4h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:05PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
4h20
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:15PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
4h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:45PM
Arrival Time
06:05AM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
07:25AM
Duration
7h30
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$26

Live departures

Leicester to Manchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Manchester buses for today, Wednesday, October 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX777 · NX42411:45 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
6h20
6:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX180 · NX17011:55 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
7h30
7:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
Thursday, October 15
National ExpressNX777 · NX4213:30 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h05
7:35 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX180 · NX1215:25 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h30
9:55 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus6:00 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
3h40
9:40 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX183 · NX1708:55 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h58
2:53 PM Manchester, Miles Platting1 transfer
National ExpressNX150 · NX5909:50 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h10
3:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:05 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
4h05
2:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus12:15 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
4h15
4:30 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX240 · NX17012:30 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
6h13
6:43 PM Manchester, Miles Platting1 transfer
National ExpressNX151 · NX12112:45 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h35
5:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus1:10 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
3h40
4:50 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX777 · NX5411:55 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h35
7:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:40 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
4h20
8:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX150 · NX5414:00 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h50
8:50 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus4:10 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
3h40
7:50 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:30 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
4h30
9:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:40 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
4h40
9:20 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX777 · NX1206:05 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h50
10:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX183 · NX5418:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h10
12:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Leicester to Manchester buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus 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 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 train and bus 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 to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Manchester.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Leicester to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Leicester to Manchester with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $8 (€7). 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 FlixBus Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$8 (€7)
FlixBus frequency
8 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
2h 55m
Cheapest National Express Price
$15 (€13)
National Express frequency
11 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.

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

Science and Industry Museum

Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.

  • 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.

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.

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 $8 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Leicester to Manchester is $28 (€24) ; 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 2h 50m 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 2 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 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Manchester including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Leicester to Manchester:
  • 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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Leicester 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.
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • 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
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Leicester to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Leicester to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
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 Leicester to Manchester

Most Leicester to Manchester buses use the Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Leicester
Arrival bus stations in Manchester
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
City-centre transport

Getting to Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station from Leicester city centre

BusHop · 0m · $3 · every ~14 min
26 · 1m · every ~10 min
21 · 4m
Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)Leicester Fosse Park, Fosse Park Ave, LE19 1HQ
City-centre transport

Getting to Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) from Leicester city centre

BusX6 · 21m · $3 · every ~4 min
50 · 23m · $3 · every ~10 min
104 · 32m · $2 · every ~10 min
18 · 44m · every ~8 min

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