Leicester to Manchester bus with National Express

Wed, Dec 03
+ Add return
National Express
FlixBus
Megabus
Arriva Midlands
Alsa
1,000+ travel companies
National Express
FlixBus
Megabus
Arriva Midlands
Alsa
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Leicester to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Dec 03

Cheapest price

$14

Average price

$29

Fastest journey

3 h 40 m

Average duration

4 h 18 m

Buses per day

14

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 $29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.

Fast buses

Of the 14 buses that leave Leicester for Manchester on Wed, Dec 03, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Dec 03 the direct buses cover the 119 km distance in an average of 4 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .

On Wed, Dec 03 the slowest buses will take 4 h 45 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
04:10PM3h40
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
07:50PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
$141One-way
0 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
04:25PM4h55
Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
09:20PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
$251One-way
1 transfer
National ExpressNX777 · NX120
06:05PM5h05
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
11:10PMManchester, Coach Station
$271One-way
1 transfer
National ExpressNX777 · NX120
11:35AM4h50
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
04:25PMManchester, Coach Station
$271One-way
1 transfer
National ExpressNX777 · NX120
01:55PM5h15
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
07:10PMManchester, Coach Station
$271One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Leicester to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the bus 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 €8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 1m. 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 €8, and a train costs an average of €17.

Distance: 73 miles (119 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train

€17

Average price

Cheapest

€55

Average price

4h 12m

Average total duration

3h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 31m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

East Midlands Trains

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
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
10:10AM
Duration
4h45
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:55AM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
5h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$34
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
02:30PM
Duration
4h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:35AM
Arrival Time
04:55PM
Duration
5h20
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:45PM
Arrival Time
05:50PM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:55PM
Arrival Time
07:10PM
Duration
5h15
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
07:35PM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:55PM
Arrival Time
08:20PM
Duration
4h25
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
08:30PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:10PM
Arrival Time
07:50PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$14
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:25PM
Arrival Time
09:20PM
Duration
4h55
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:05PM
Arrival Time
09:20PM
Duration
4h15
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:55PM
Arrival Time
11:10PM
Duration
5h15
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05PM
Arrival Time
11:10PM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$27
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
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:45PM
Arrival Time
06:05AM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
08:25AM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, 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, December 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 6:57 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressNX183 · NX1818:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h00
1:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
national_expressNX180 · NX171
On time
11:55 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
8h25
8:20 AM Manchester, Coach Station
1 transfer
Wednesday, December 3
national_expressNX777 · NX4213:30 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h05
7:35 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
national_expressNX180 · NX121
Delayed
5:25 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h45
11:15 AM 11:15 AMManchester, Coach Station
1 transfer
national_expressNX183 · NX171
On time
8:55 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h00
1:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station
1 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_expressNX777 · NX120
On time
11:35 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h50
4:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station
1 transfer
national_expressNX151 · NX121
On time
12:45 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h55
5:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station
1 transfer
national_expressNX777 · NX120
On time
1:55 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h15
7:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station
1 transfer
national_expressNX150 · NX120
On time
4:00 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h30
8:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station
1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus4:10 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
3h40
7:50 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus4:25 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
4h55
9:20 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
national_expressNX777 · NX120
On time
6:05 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h05
11:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station
1 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 train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Wed
Dec 03
Thu
Dec 04
Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Tue
Dec 09
Fri
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Sun
Dec 14
Mon
Dec 15
Thu
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22

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 10 times per day, taking around 3h 42m. 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 42m
Cheapest ticket price
$10 (€8)
Buses per day
10
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
2 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 30m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
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.

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 $23 (€18); 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 2 h 35 min   to travel the 74 mile (119 km) long journey, with around there are 11 buses per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Leicester to Manchester leaves at 8: 45AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Leicester to Manchester leaves at 11: 55PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Leicester to Manchester without having to change trains with FlixBus. There is 1 direct bus from Leicester to Manchester each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
Take the Leicester to Manchester bus with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus or Arriva Midlands. However, it's always good to check out all possible bus companies for the trip between Leicester and Manchester as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.

Passengers board the bus most frequently from Leicester, St. Margaret's Bus Station, which is located around 0.2 miles (368 m) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, located 0.5 miles (833 m) away from the city centre.

A trip to Manchester from Leicester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2 h 35 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Leicester to Manchester by bus is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Leicester to Manchester including taking a train or 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 providers National Express and FlixBus.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies National Express and 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.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Leicester to Manchester, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    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 providers: National Express and FlixBus
    Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Leicester to Manchester with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus.
    Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Leicester to Manchester with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Leicester to Manchester

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

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