- Must visit
Williamson Art Gallery and Museum
Local heritage museum exploring the history of the Williamson Art Gallery building and surrounding civic quarter through changing displays.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Birkenhead
Showing times and prices for Aug 12
Cheapest price
€5
Average price
€5
Fastest journey
1 h 25 m
Average duration
1 h 25 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
52 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Birkenhead is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Birkenhead will cost around €5 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €5.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Manchester for Birkenhead on Wed, Aug 12, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 12 the direct buses cover the 52 km distance in an average of 1 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 25 m .
On Wed, Aug 12 the slowest buses will take 1 h 25 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.
6:40 AM1h25Manchester8:05 AMBirkenhead€51One-way0 transfers- 7:40 AM1h25Manchester9:05 AMBirkenhead€51One-way0 transfers
- 7:40 AM1h25Manchester9:05 AMBirkenhead€51One-way0 transfers
- 6:40 AM1h25Manchester8:05 AMBirkenhead€51One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Manchester to Birkenhead
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Birkenhead among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €5, and a train costs an average of €8.
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€5 Average price Cheapest | €13 Average price | €14 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 58m Average total duration 1h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 24m Average total duration Fastest 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Birkenhead is a bus with an average price of €5.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Birkenhead:
A bus is €8 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Birkenhead costing on average €13.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Birkenhead is by train with an average journey time of 54m.
Other travel options to Birkenhead take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Birkenhead including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Birkenhead among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around €5 compared to roughly €14 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €8. The journey takes 1h 28m versus 1h 5m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus, National Express.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Manchester to Birkenhead Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 09:05AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €5 |
Live departures
Manchester to Birkenhead bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Birkenhead buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:40 AM Manchester | 1h25 | 8:05 AM Birkenhead | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:40 AM Manchester | 1h25 | 9:05 AM Birkenhead | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Birkenhead 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 12
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Aug 18
Why should you book Manchester to Birkenhead buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer buses services from Manchester to Birkenhead.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Birkenhead.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Birkenhead.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Birkenhead.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Birkenhead.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Birkenhead.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Birkenhead
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Birkenhead run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €5 if you book in advance.
There are 5 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 32 miles (52 km) distance in 1h 25m.
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 32 miles (52 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price €5 |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 1h 25m |
First bus 12:50 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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: FlixBus, National Express from Manchester to BirkenheadYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Birkenhead with FlixBus, National Express for as low as €5. 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
1h 25m
Cheapest Price
€5
FlixBus frequency
1 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
55m
Cheapest Price
€24
National Express frequency
9 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 Birkenhead
Things to do in Birkenhead
Discover the best of Birkenhead — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birkenhead trip today.
- Recommended
Wirral Transport Museum
Award-winning museum on Birkenhead’s maritime and transport history, featuring tramways, vintage vehicles, and engaging displays for families.
- Recommended
Birkenhead Priory Museum
Small museum inside the priory complex covering monastic life, local archaeology, and the early Mersey ferry crossing.
- Must visit
Hamilton Square
Grand Georgian square with listed terraces and strong film history. It is ideal for architecture walks and one of Birkenhead’s defining spaces.
- Must visit
Birkenhead Park
Historic public park designed by Joseph Paxton. Its lakes, bridges, and landscaped paths inspired major urban parks worldwide.
- Recommended
Woodside Waterfront
Revived waterfront leisure and heritage area with ferry access, riverside views, and links to museums and the priory.
Scouse
A rich beef and vegetable stew topped with mashed potato, linked to Liverpool and the Wirral and long loved as a hearty local comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
Liverpool Tart
A sweet, currant-filled flat bread or bun from Merseyside, traditionally eaten toasted with butter and closely tied to local baking history.
- Vegetarian
Wet Nelly
A dense fruit cake packed with currants and warming spice, associated with Liverpool and commonly served in homes and old-style bakeries.
Home
Established modern British restaurant in Oxton offering polished seasonal cooking and a more refined dining experience.
Franco's
Well-known independent Italian restaurant in Oxton, valued for pasta, pizzas and warm neighbourhood service in a comfortable setting.
The Elizabeth Rooms
Popular local café and brunch venue in Oxton, known for quality coffee, breakfasts and light lunches in a casual setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than in central Liverpool; dining and local transit are generally reasonable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional; small change is fine.
FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Birkenhead
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Birkenhead 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 Birkenhead, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Manchester to Birkenhead can start from as little as €5 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Birkenhead is €5 ; 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 Manchester to Birkenhead is 1h 25m to travel the 32 miles (52 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 Manchester to Birkenhead leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Birkenhead leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct buses a day from Manchester to Birkenhead with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Manchester to Birkenhead, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Birkenhead. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester and Birkenhead and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Manchester , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Coach Station . When arriving in Birkenhead , you can end your journey in bus stations like Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place, Liverpool, University, Liverpool, Liverpool One, Liverpool, Wavertree Shopping Centre .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Manchester, Airport, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place, located 1 away from the city centre.
A day trip to Birkenhead from Manchester is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Manchester to Birkenhead is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Birkenhead including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester to Birkenhead:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Birkenhead for bus company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester to Birkenhead 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 FlixBus, 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 Manchester to Birkenhead.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester to Birkenhead:
- 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 Manchester to Birkenhead:
- 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 Manchester to Birkenhead. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Manchester to Birkenhead with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Birkenhead with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Birkenhead with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Since neither Manchester nor Birkenhead 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 Manchester to Birkenhead 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 Birkenhead, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas and on public transportation. It is advisable to stay alert in crowded places and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Scams involving overcharging taxi drivers or unofficial ticket sellers may occur, so travelers should use licensed services and official ticket points.
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 Manchester to Birkenhead
Most Manchester to Birkenhead buses use the Manchester, Airport to Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Birkenhead bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Manchester
Arrival bus stations in Birkenhead
Which Manchester station do buses to Birkenhead leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Birkenhead leave from Manchester, Airport. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Manchester city centre at Manchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom.
Manchester, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · €5 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · €1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · €2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · €2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · €4 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · €4 · every ~8 min
Manchester, Airport bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeShudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Shudehill Interchange from Manchester city centre
Bus163, 118, 119, 18, 112, 114, 117, 81 · 3m · €2 · every ~69 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 2m · €2 · every ~23 min
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · €2 · every ~231 min
Manchester, Coach Station 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 and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
More options for your journey from Manchester to Birkenhead
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Birkenhead and Manchester
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