Manchester to Birmingham bus with National Express

Sat, May 23
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for May 23

Cheapest price

$19

Average price

$26

Fastest journey

1 h 50 m

Average duration

2 h 1 m

Buses per day

34

Distance

113 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Birmingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Manchester to Birmingham will cost around $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.

Fast buses

Of the 34 buses that leave Manchester for Birmingham on Sat, May 23, 34 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, May 23 the direct buses cover the 113 km distance in an average of 2 h 1 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 50 m .

On Sat, May 23 the slowest buses will take 2 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    2:30 PM2h30
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    5:00 PMBirmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    10:10 AM2h35
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    12:45 PMBirmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    9:30 AM3h30
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    1:00 PMBirmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    12:10 PM2h30
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    2:40 PMBirmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway
    $201One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    8:00 PM2h20
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    10:20 PMBirmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway
    $201One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Manchester to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 56m. 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 $9, and a train costs an average of $12.

Distance: 70 miles (113 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$17

Average price

Cheapest

$35

Average price

$43

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 33m

Average total duration

2h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 53m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

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 Manchester to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $17 (€13).

This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Birmingham:

A bus is $18 (€15) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Birmingham costing on average $35 (€28).

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 1h 56m.

Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 3m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Birmingham including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Birmingham 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 $17 (€13) compared to roughly $43 (€35) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $26 (€21). The journey takes 2h 3m versus 1h 53m 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 National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.

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 Birmingham Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:20AM
Arrival Time
02:50AM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$12
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:45AM
Arrival Time
04:35AM
Duration
1h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:50AM
Arrival Time
04:45AM
Duration
1h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$12
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:15AM
Arrival Time
06:25AM
Duration
2h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15AM
Arrival Time
07:20AM
Duration
2h05
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:45AM
Arrival Time
08:15AM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
08:15AM
Duration
2h05
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
09:30AM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:10AM
Arrival Time
09:40AM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:15AM
Arrival Time
09:30AM
Duration
2h15
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:25AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
2h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:20AM
Arrival Time
11:15AM
Duration
2h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:25AM
Arrival Time
10:45AM
Duration
2h20
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:40AM
Arrival Time
11:15AM
Duration
2h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:55AM
Arrival Time
11:10AM
Duration
2h15
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
11:45AM
Duration
2h25
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:30AM
Arrival Time
01:00PM
Duration
3h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
12:20PM
Duration
2h20
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:10AM
Arrival Time
12:45PM
Duration
2h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$9
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
12:45PM
Duration
2h25
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
01:10PM
Duration
2h25
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:10AM
Arrival Time
01:35PM
Duration
2h25
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:15AM
Arrival Time
01:40PM
Duration
2h25
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:10PM
Arrival Time
02:40PM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
02:40PM
Duration
2h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:20PM
Arrival Time
03:45PM
Duration
2h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
04:10PM
Duration
2h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:15PM
Arrival Time
04:50PM
Duration
2h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:30PM
Arrival Time
05:00PM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$9
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:50PM
Arrival Time
05:25PM
Duration
2h35
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
05:30PM
Duration
2h25
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:30PM
Arrival Time
05:50PM
Duration
2h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$9
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:30PM
Arrival Time
05:55PM
Duration
2h25
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:40PM
Arrival Time
06:15PM
Duration
2h35
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
06:30PM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:15PM
Arrival Time
06:30PM
Duration
2h15
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15PM
Arrival Time
07:45PM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35PM
Arrival Time
07:55PM
Duration
2h20
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
09:15PM
Duration
2h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:00PM
Arrival Time
10:20PM
Duration
2h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$9
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:30PM
Arrival Time
11:40PM
Duration
2h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:40PM
Arrival Time
02:30AM
Duration
2h50
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
02:45AM
Duration
2h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$21
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:59PM
Arrival Time
02:50AM
Duration
2h51
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$12

Live departures

Manchester to Birmingham bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Birmingham buses for today, Friday, May 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus5:30 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h30
8:00 PM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus8:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h20
10:20 PM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX42211:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h50
2:30 AM Birmingham, Coach Station0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus11:59 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h51
2:50 AM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
Saturday, May 23
FlixBusFlixBus12:20 AM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
2h30
2:50 AM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX4212:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station
1h50
4:35 AM Birmingham, Coach Station0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus2:50 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
1h55
4:45 AM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX1814:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h10
6:25 AM Birmingham, Coach Station0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
Delayed
5:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h05
10:10 AM 10:10 AMBirmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
Delayed
6:10 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h05
10:10 AM 10:10 AMBirmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus7:10 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h30
9:40 AM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX120
Delayed
7:25 AM 7:15 AMManchester, Coach Station
2h15
9:45 AM 9:45 AMBirmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
Delayed
7:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h15
10:10 AM 10:10 AMBirmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus8:20 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h55
11:15 AM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX120
On time
8:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h20
10:45 AM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus8:40 AM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
2h35
11:15 AM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
On time
8:55 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h15
11:10 AM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus9:30 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
3h30
1:00 PM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
On time
10:00 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h20
12:20 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus10:10 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h35
12:45 PM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX121
Delayed
10:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h25
1:15 PM 1:15 PMBirmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
On time
11:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2h25
1:40 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus12:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h30
2:40 PM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
On time
12:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h15
2:40 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
On time
1:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h25
3:45 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX590
On time
2:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h10
4:10 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX121
On time
2:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h25
4:40 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus2:30 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h30
5:00 PM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
On time
3:05 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h25
5:30 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus3:30 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
2h20
5:50 PM Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX120
On time
3:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h25
5:55 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541
On time
4:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h15
6:30 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX121
On time
5:35 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h20
7:55 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX120
On time
7:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h15
9:15 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX120
On time
9:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h10
11:40 PM Birmingham, Coach Station
0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Birmingham 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.

Fri
May 22
Sat
May 23
Sun
May 24
Mon
May 25
Tue
May 26
Wed
May 27
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May 28
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May 29
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May 30
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May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
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Jun 06
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Jun 07
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Jun 08
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Jun 09
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Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11

Why should you book Manchester to Birmingham buses with Omio?

National Express as well as Megabus or FlixBus offer buses services from Manchester to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Birmingham.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Birmingham.
  • 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Birmingham.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Birmingham.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Birmingham.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Birmingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Birmingham run on average 27 times per day, taking around 2h 3m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.

There are 26 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 70 miles (113 km) distance in 2h 10m.

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
70 miles (113 km)
Average bus duration
2h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
$9 (€7)
Buses per day
27
Direct buses
26
Fastest bus
2h 10m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
77 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

Bus providers: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus from Manchester to BirminghamYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Birmingham with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for as low as $9 (€7). 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
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
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
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€10)
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
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
Megabus frequency
4 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.

Complete guide to Birmingham

Things to do in Birmingham

Discover the best of Birmingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birmingham trip today.

  • Must visit

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Major city museum with fine art, the Staffordshire Hoard, and important local history collections in a landmark civic building.

  • Must visit

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum

Interactive science museum at Millennium Point with hands-on galleries, historic engines, and family-focused exhibits.

  • Recommended

Ikon Gallery

Leading contemporary art gallery in Brindleyplace, known for ambitious exhibitions in a striking former school building.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Budget eats are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes, pubs, and for hotel staff.

Buses Manchester to Birmingham

This route is very often offered daily by the buses National Express. The journey starts in the heart of Manchester and leads directly south out of the city. It passes Manchester Airport immediately. The route continues past the towns of Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford and Cannock. At the destination you reach the city of Birmingham and land directly in the center in the central bus station. This is excellently equipped and you will find everything you need on arrival.

Which bus companies operate from Manchester to Birmingham?

The Manchester - Birmingham bus route is operated exclusively by National Express. However, this offers a sufficient number of departure times so that everyone can find a suitable trip.

How long does the bus ride from Manchester to Birmingham take?

The direct driving time is between 2 and 3.5 hours. It is therefore not a particularly long journey. Nevertheless, the route is quite interesting. Especially shortly after Manchester when driving past the airport there is always something to see.

How often can you travel by bus from Manchester to Birmingham?

The National Express takes the Manchester - Birmingham bus about 14 times a day on this route. These are just under a hundred journeys a week from which passengers can choose. During the day there is usually a Buses every one to two hours.

Bus stations on the route Manchester - Birmingham?

At which bus station does the bus start in Manchester? Manchester Coach Station is located in the centre of Manchester. There the buses Manchester - Birmingham starts. In the large waiting area there is not only a popular drinks machine. Ticket machines are also available. And there are plenty of parking spaces. The airport is only 15 km away. There are facilities for food and public toilets. There's even a coffee shop there. Passengers can also recharge their mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets or laptops. And at the kiosk you can get reading material for the waiting time and for the trip. There is also an ATM right next to the station.

At which bus station does the bus arrive in Birmingham? At the Birmingham Coach Station the buses of National Express arrives. There, one finds a real waiting hall and parking places in case one wants to be picked up. There are several ways to buy food and even a subway restaurant across the street. There are also ticket vending machines and an ATM. There are also public toilets and a kiosk. Inside and outside there are small coffee houses. There are also charging facilities with free WIFI and even coin-operated phones.

FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Birmingham

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Manchester to Birmingham can start from as little as $9 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Birmingham is $17 (€13) ; 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 Birmingham is 2h 10m to travel the 70 miles (113 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 Birmingham leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Birmingham leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 26 direct buses a day from Manchester to Birmingham with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Manchester to Birmingham, you can count on National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Birmingham. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester and Birmingham 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, Coach Station, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East, Failsworth, Oldham Road, New Moston, Broadway . When arriving in Birmingham , you can end your journey in bus stations like Birmingham, Coach Station, Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, Brunel Street, Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport), Coventry, Pool Meadow Bus Station, Birmingham, Hagley Road West .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Manchester, Coach Station, which is located around 0 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Birmingham, Coach Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Birmingham from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Manchester to Birmingham is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Birmingham including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester to Birmingham:
  • 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.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Birmingham for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Birmingham are:
  • Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, a cultural institution housing a vast collection of art and historical artifacts
  • Cadbury World, an interactive chocolate-themed attraction offering tours and exhibits
  • Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a serene 15-acre garden featuring exotic plants and glasshouses
  • Symphony Hall, a renowned concert venue known for its exceptional acoustics and diverse performances
  • The Bullring, a major shopping center with a wide range of retail outlets and dining options.
The best things to do in Birmingham include:
  • Explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, known for its unique shops and vibrant atmosphere
  • Take a canal boat tour to see the city from a different perspective
  • Visit the National SEA LIFE Centre, home to a variety of marine life and interactive exhibits
  • Enjoy a performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome, one of the busiest theatres in the UK
  • Discover the rich history of the city at the Birmingham Back to Backs, a preserved 19th-century courtyard of working people's houses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester to Birmingham 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.
  • 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 National Express, FlixBus.
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 Birmingham.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester to Birmingham:
  • 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.
  • 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 Birmingham:
  • 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.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Manchester to Birmingham. 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 Birmingham with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Birmingham with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Birmingham with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Manchester nor Birmingham 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like shopping districts and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and remain alert in crowded places to avoid these 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.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Manchester to Birmingham

Manchester
Birmingham
The major bus station for departures in Manchester is Manchester, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Coach Station for your trip from Manchester to Birmingham.
Manchester, Coach StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 06:00-22:00
carConnection
Car connection
Chorlton Street
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Café at the Station (in the station)
  • Fast Food Express (in the station).
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, assistance
WC
WC
  • Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Coach Station
  • Bus: 50, 192, 201, 203, 205, 219, 255, 256 Train: Manchester Piccadilly Metro: Piccadilly Gardens
Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 05:00-23:30
carConnection
Car connection
Shudehill
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the interchange.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
  • Bus: 42, 43, 135 Tram: Metrolink
Manchester, AirportWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
ShowerShower
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 00:00-23:59
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
carConnection
Car connection
Terminal Road North
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King (in the station)
  • Giraffe (in the station).
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal, with several companies offering services.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, assistance
WC
WC
  • Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Airport
  • Bus: 43, 103 Train: Manchester Airport

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