Manchester to Canterbury bus with National Express

Thu, Jul 09
+ Add return
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Canterbury

Showing times and prices for Jul 09

Cheapest price

$30

Average price

$40

Fastest journey

7 h 55 m

Average duration

8 h 28 m

Buses per day

8

Distance

333 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Canterbury will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Manchester to Canterbury without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressNX540 · NX007
    4:55 PM7h55
    Manchester, Coach Station
    12:50 AMCanterbury, Bus Station
    $301One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX541 · NX007
    7:25 AM9h05
    Manchester, Coach Station
    4:30 PMCanterbury, Bus Station
    $301One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX022
    5:15 AM8h50
    Manchester, Coach Station
    2:05 PMCanterbury, Bus Station
    $301One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX022
    2:40 PM8h15
    Manchester, Coach Station
    10:55 PMCanterbury, Bus Station
    $301One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX421 · NX007
    2:45 AM9h10
    Manchester, Coach Station
    11:55 AMCanterbury, Bus Station
    $411One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Manchester to Canterbury

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $84.

Distance: 206 miles (333 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Flight
Driving

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$158

Average price

$206

Average price

$106

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 10m

Average total duration

7h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 13m

Average total duration

3h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 8m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 52m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $37 (€31).

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

A bus is $121 (€100) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Canterbury costing on average $158 (€130).

A bus is $168 (€138) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Canterbury costing on average $206 (€169).

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Canterbury is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 8m.

Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 43m.

Bus takes on average 7h 40m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Canterbury including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Canterbury among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

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.

Manchester to Canterbury Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:45AM
Arrival Time
10:55AM
Duration
9h10
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$45
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:45AM
Arrival Time
11:55AM
Duration
9h10
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10AM
Arrival Time
02:00PM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Mon, Sun
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15AM
Arrival Time
02:05PM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:25AM
Arrival Time
03:30PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:25AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:50AM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
8h15
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
07:20PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:55AM
Arrival Time
07:00PM
Duration
8h05
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$35
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
08:25PM
Duration
8h10
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
09:25PM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$63
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:45PM
Arrival Time
09:05PM
Duration
8h20
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:50PM
Arrival Time
09:05PM
Duration
8h15
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:25PM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
9h00
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Sat
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:40PM
Arrival Time
10:55PM
Duration
8h15
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:45PM
Arrival Time
12:10AM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
11:50PM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$35
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:55PM
Arrival Time
12:10AM
Duration
8h15
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:10PM
Arrival Time
12:10AM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
8h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:55PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
7h55
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
01:10AM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
09:30AM
Duration
9h35
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$35

Live departures

Manchester to Canterbury bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Canterbury buses for today, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX424 · NX022
On time
11:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station
9h50
9:45 AM Canterbury, Bus Station
1 transfer
Thursday, July 9
National ExpressNX421 · NX007
Delayed
6:40 AM 2:45 AMManchester, Coach Station
9h10
11:55 AM Canterbury, Bus Station
1 transfer
National ExpressNX540 · NX022
On time
5:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station
8h50
2:05 PM Canterbury, Bus Station
1 transfer
National ExpressNX541 · NX007
On time
7:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station
9h05
4:30 PM Canterbury, Bus Station
1 transfer
National ExpressNX540 · NX022
On time
10:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station
9h05
7:20 PM Canterbury, Bus Station
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Canterbury by bus, train, or flight

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.

Thu
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15

Why should you book Manchester to Canterbury buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Manchester to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Canterbury.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Canterbury

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Canterbury run on average 12 times per day, taking around 7h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $25 (€21) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:20, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 206 miles (333 km) distance in 7h 55m.

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
206 miles (333 km)
Average bus duration
7h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$25 (€21)
Buses per day
12
Fastest bus
7h 55m
First bus
12:20 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
21 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 from Manchester to CanterburyYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Canterbury with National Express for as low as $25 (€21). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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
7h 55m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€21)
National Express frequency
12 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.

FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Canterbury

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Manchester to Canterbury can start from as little as $25 (€21) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Canterbury is $37 (€31) ; 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 Canterbury is 7h 55m to travel the 206 miles (333 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 Canterbury leaves at 12:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Canterbury leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Manchester to Canterbury which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Manchester to Canterbury, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Canterbury. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester and Canterbury and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Canterbury from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Manchester to Canterbury is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Canterbury including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester to Canterbury:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Canterbury for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Canterbury are:
  • Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic Gothic structure known for its stunning architecture and historical significance
  • St. Augustine's Abbey, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery founded in the 6th century, offering insights into early Christian history in England
  • Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, a medieval gatehouse with exhibits on local history and panoramic views of the city
  • Canterbury Roman Museum, an underground museum showcasing Roman artifacts and the remains of a Roman townhouse
  • Westgate Gardens, a picturesque park perfect for leisurely walks along the River Stour.
The best things to do in Canterbury include:
  • Explore the historic streets of Canterbury on a guided walking tour, learning about its rich history and hidden gems
  • Enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour for a unique perspective of the city's architecture and natural beauty
  • Visit the Canterbury Tales attraction for an interactive experience of Chaucer's famous stories
  • Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre, featuring plays, musicals, and concerts
  • Discover the local food scene with a culinary tour of Canterbury's best eateries and markets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester to Canterbury 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Manchester to Canterbury.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester to Canterbury:
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Manchester to Canterbury:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Manchester to Canterbury.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Manchester to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Manchester nor Canterbury 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 Canterbury 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 Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Canterbury

Most Manchester to Canterbury buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Canterbury, St. Georges Lane station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury, University Of Kent. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Canterbury 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 Canterbury

Which Manchester station do buses to Canterbury leave from?

Buses from Manchester to Canterbury leave from Manchester, Coach Station. The station is from Manchester city centre at Chorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
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.

Manchester, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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 · $6 · 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 · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · 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.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone