- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Liverpool to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€17
Average price
€17
Fastest journey
5 h 10 m
Average duration
5 h 45 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
43 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Liverpool to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Liverpool 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
Of the 3 buses that leave Liverpool for Preston on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 43 km distance in an average of 5 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 10 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 6 h 55 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.
9:15 PM5h10Liverpool2:25 AMPreston€171One-way0 transfers- 8:15 PM5h10Liverpool1:25 AMPreston€171One-way0 transfers
- 6:30 PM6h55Liverpool1:25 AMPreston€181One-way0 transfers
- 9:15 PM5h10Liverpool2:25 AMPreston€171One-way0 transfers
- 8:15 PM5h10Liverpool1:25 AMPreston€171One-way0 transfers
- 6:30 PM6h55Liverpool1:25 AMPreston€181One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Liverpool to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Liverpool to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €4. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €4, and a bus costs an average of €16.
Distance: 26 miles (43 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€18 Average price | €10 Average price Cheapest | €9 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 14m Average total duration 1h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 26m Average total duration Fastest 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Liverpool to Preston is a train with an average price of €10.
This is compared to other travel options from Liverpool to Preston:
A train is €8 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Liverpool to Preston costing on average €18.
The fastest way to travel from Liverpool to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 56m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Liverpool and Preston including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Liverpool to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -41m sooner (1h 44m by bus vs 1h 3m by car) and save roughly €-8.82 compared to fuel and tolls (€18 vs €9). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by Megabus.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Liverpool to Preston Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:40AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:30AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:40AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:38PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 6h47 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €17 |
Live departures
Liverpool to Preston bus times
The table below shows live departures for Liverpool to Preston buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX170 · NX181 | 7:30 PM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 6h55 | 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX170 · NX181 | 7:38 PM Liverpool, University | 6h47 | 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Liverpool to Preston 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
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
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Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
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Aug 08
Aug 08
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Aug 11
Why should you book Liverpool to Preston buses with Omio?
Megabus as well as National Express, Arriva UK, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire and more offer buses services from Liverpool to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Liverpool to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Megabus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Megabus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express, Arriva UK or Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool 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 Megabus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Liverpool to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express, Arriva UK or Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Liverpool to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Liverpool to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Liverpool to Preston run on average 4 times per day, taking around 1h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €16 but you can travel from only €4 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 26 miles (43 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €4
Distance 26 miles (43 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price €16 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 3h 40m |
First bus 2:30 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €4
Bus providers: Megabus, National Express, Arriva UK, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire from Liverpool to PrestonYou can travel by bus between Liverpool to Preston with Megabus, National Express, Arriva UK, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire for as low as €4. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
50m
Cheapest Price
€16
Megabus frequency
1 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.
Entertaiment on board
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
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
€16
National Express frequency
4 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.
Arriva UK
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
€7
Arriva UK frequency
6 a day
Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
€16
Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire frequency
10 a day
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.
FAQs: Bus from Liverpool to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Liverpool 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Liverpool to Preston can start from as little as €16 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Liverpool to Preston is €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 Liverpool to Preston is 3h 40m to travel the 26 miles (43 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 Liverpool to Preston leaves at 2:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Liverpool to Preston leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Liverpool to Preston which require at least one change with Megabus, National Express, Arriva UK, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Liverpool to Preston, you can count on Megabus, National Express, Arriva UK, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire for the best way to get you to Preston. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Liverpool and Preston and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Preston from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Preston is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Liverpool and Preston including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Liverpool to Preston:
- 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Liverpool to Preston for bus company Megabus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Liverpool to Preston 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.
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 Liverpool to Preston.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Liverpool to Preston:
- 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.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Liverpool to Preston:
- 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.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Liverpool to Preston.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Liverpool to Preston with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Liverpool to Preston with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Liverpool to Preston with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express.
Since neither Liverpool nor Preston are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Liverpool to Preston among Omio's users.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Liverpool to Preston
Most Liverpool to Preston buses use the Liverpool, University to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Liverpool and Preston bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Liverpool
Arrival bus stations in Preston
Which Liverpool station do buses to Preston leave from?
Buses from Liverpool to Preston leave from Liverpool, University. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Liverpool city centre at University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK.
Liverpool, UniversityUniversity of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, University from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, University is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10A · 4m · €4 · every ~11 min
Liverpool, University bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, University has practical services for this route, including Taxis.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, University: Taxis.
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning PlaceCanning Place, Liverpool L1 8JX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10A · 11m · €4 · every ~25 min
City Explorer 101 · 41m · every ~3 min
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café in the Station (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place: Elevators, ramps.
Liverpool, Botanic Park
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, Botanic Park from Liverpool city centre
Bus79 · 13m · €2 · every ~21 min
Preston, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Bus23 · 6m · €9 · every ~8 min
Most popular bus connections from Liverpool
More options for your journey from Liverpool to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Preston and Liverpool
Most popular bus connections to Preston
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