- 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 Macclesfield to Manchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30
Cheapest price on Aug 30
$14
Average ticket price on Aug 30
$14
Fastest journey on Aug 30
1 h 19 m
Average journey duration on Aug 30
1 h 19 m
Buses on Aug 30
1
Distance
26 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Macclesfield to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Macclesfield to Manchester will cost around $14 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Macclesfield to Manchester without transferring at least once.
NT175400 · C325028:27 AM1h19Macclesfield station (MAC)9:46 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$141One-way1 transfer
- NT175400 · C325028:27 AM1h19Macclesfield station (MAC)9:46 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)$141One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Macclesfield to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Macclesfield to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $7 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 56m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, while a train costs an average of $10.
Distance: 16 miles (26 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$7 Average price Cheapest | $10 Average price | $8 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 23m Average total duration 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 56m Average total duration Fastest 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Macclesfield to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $7.
This is compared to other travel options from Macclesfield to Manchester:
A bus is $3 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Macclesfield to Manchester costing on average $10.
The fastest way to travel from Macclesfield to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 26m.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Macclesfield and Manchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Macclesfield to Manchester among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about 2m sooner (53m by bus vs 55m by car) and save roughly $0.51 compared to fuel and tolls ($7 vs $8). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Macclesfield to Manchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Avanti West Coast | Departure Time 08:02AM | Arrival Time 09:05AM | Duration 1h03 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Northern Rail | Departure Time 08:27AM | Arrival Time 09:46AM | Duration 1h19 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator Avanti West Coast | Departure Time 08:44AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 1h01 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Avanti West Coast | Departure Time 09:06AM | Arrival Time 10:15AM | Duration 1h09 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Avanti West Coast | Departure Time 09:48AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 1h07 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Avanti West Coast | Departure Time 12:46PM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 0h59 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $19 |
Live departures
Macclesfield to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Macclesfield to Manchester buses for tomorrow, Sunday, August 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NT175400 · C32502 | 8:27 AM Macclesfield station (MAC) | 1h19 | 9:46 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Macclesfield 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Macclesfield to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Macclesfield to Manchester run on average 3 times per day, taking around 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $4 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 16 miles (26 km) distance in 1h 19m.
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 16 miles (26 km) |
Average bus duration 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 1h 19m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
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.
FAQs: Bus from Macclesfield to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield to Manchester can start from as little as $4 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Macclesfield to Manchester is $7 ; 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 Macclesfield to Manchester is 1h 19m to travel the 16 miles (26 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 Macclesfield to Manchester leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Macclesfield to Manchester leaves at 11:45 PM.
A day trip to Manchester from Macclesfield is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 19m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Macclesfield to Manchester is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Macclesfield and Manchester including taking a train and bus.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester.
No, the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester has no accessibility options.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester.
No, luggage for the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Macclesfield to Manchester.
Since neither Macclesfield nor Manchester 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 Macclesfield to Manchester 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 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.
More options for your journey from Macclesfield to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Macclesfield
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