- Must visit
The Higgins Bedford
Bedford’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and the Panacea story, making it the essential first stop for understanding the town.
Cheapest price
$50
Average price
$51
Fastest journey
4 h 30 m
Average duration
4 h 54 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
191 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Bedford will cost around $51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Of the 4 buses that leave Manchester for Bedford on Wed, Aug 05, 4 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 191 km distance in an average of 4 h 54 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 30 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 5 h 10 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.








Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Bedford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $45. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 9m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $45, and a flight costs an average of $102.
Distance: 118 miles (191 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$50 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price | $259 Average price | $67 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 11m Average total duration 3h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration 2h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 9m Average total duration Fastest 1h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Bedford:
A bus is $41 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Bedford costing on average $91.
A bus is $208 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Bedford costing on average $259.
Other travel options to Bedford take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 44m.
Bus takes on average 3h 41m.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45AM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 09:25AM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 09:25AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:50AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:05AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 12:00AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:40PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Bedford buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 4:45 AM Manchester | 5h10 | 9:55 AM Bedford | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 1:30 PM Manchester | 5h05 | 6:35 PM Bedford | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 3:45 PM Manchester | 4h50 | 8:35 PM Bedford | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:00 PM Manchester | 4h30 | 9:30 PM Bedford | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, and flight 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.
Buses from Manchester to Bedford run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $45 but you can travel from only $40 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 4h 15m.
Distance 118 miles (191 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 4h 15m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Bedford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bedford trip today.
Bedford’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and the Panacea story, making it the essential first stop for understanding the town.
Museum inside John Bunyan’s former church site, focused on The Pilgrim’s Progress, Bunyan’s life, and Bedford’s nonconformist heritage.
Small museum telling the story of the Panacea Society, a unique Bedford religious community, through preserved rooms and archives.
Bedford’s signature riverside promenade, ideal for walking, boating views, and seeing why the town is closely tied to the Great Ouse.
Historic central street lined with shops and civic landmarks, useful for exploring Bedford’s commercial heart on foot.
Characterful historic quarter with independent businesses, old buildings, and easy access to museums, churches, and the river.
A Bedfordshire classic with suet pastry and layers of bacon, onion, and potato. It is a long-standing county comfort food still linked to local home cooking.
A local suet pastry pudding filled with chopped apples, sugar, and spice. It is a traditional Bedfordshire dessert once made to use orchard fruit.
A rich yeasted fruit loaf with dried fruit and spice, associated with Bedfordshire baking traditions. Often served sliced with butter at tea time.
Popular Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant with generous grilled dishes, meze, and a smart casual atmosphere.
Well-regarded independent restaurant serving modern British and European dishes in a polished but relaxed town-centre setting.
Established riverside venue known for grilled meats, classic British dishes, and a lively pub atmosphere with broad appeal.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Tipping is optional. Restaurants may add a 10-12.5% service charge; otherwise 10% is common. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Official public transport app
Bedford Bus Station -> Bedford St Johns
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Bedford 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 Bedford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Manchester to Bedford buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Bedford, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Bedford bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.
Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need