- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
Small local museum covering Folkestone’s history, archaeology, and changing seaside life. A useful first stop for understanding the town.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Folkestone
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$29
Average price
$29
Fastest journey
8 h 35 m
Average duration
8 h 35 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
354 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Folkestone will cost around $29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Manchester for Folkestone on Wed, Aug 05, 1 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 354 km distance in an average of 8 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 35 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 8 h 35 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.
4:45 PM8h35Manchester1:20 AMFolkestone$291One-way0 transfers
- 4:45 PM8h35Manchester1:20 AMFolkestone$291One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Folkestone run on average 5 times per day, taking around 8h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 219 miles (354 km) distance in 8h 35m.
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 219 miles (354 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 8h 35m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Manchester to Folkestone Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Live departures
Manchester to Folkestone bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Folkestone buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:45 PM Manchester | 8h35 | 1:20 AM Folkestone | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Folkestone buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Manchester to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Folkestone.
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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Folkestone.
Bus providers: National Express from Manchester to FolkestoneYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Folkestone with National Express for as low as $27 (€22). 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
8h 35m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
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 Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Artworks Visitor Centre
Changing contemporary art exhibitions in a leading regional gallery. Known for ambitious programming and strong links to the town’s creative revival.
- Recommended
Kent Battle of Britain Museum
Volunteer-run military museum in nearby Capel-le-Ferne with artefacts from wartime Kent. Compact but informative for local defence history.
- Must visit
Lower Leas Coastal Park
Clifftop park and promenade with gardens, family spaces, and wide sea views. One of the town’s best walking areas from coast to harbour.
- Must visit
Harbour Arm
Revived harbour promenade with public art, events, and dramatic views over the Channel. A signature place in modern Folkestone.
- Recommended
The Old High Street
Historic hillside lane in the Creative Quarter, lined with independent shops, art spaces, and old buildings. Ideal for a characterful stroll.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed on the Kent coast, usually grilled or pan-fried. A classic local seafood choice tied to Folkestone’s fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Briny oysters from the nearby Kent coast, often served raw with lemon. They reflect the area’s long shellfish tradition and seaside identity.
Fish And Chips
Lightly battered local fish with chips, a staple of English seaside towns. In Folkestone it is prized for very fresh catch and harbour setting.
The Lobster Shack
Popular casual seafood spot on Folkestone Harbour Arm serving fresh fish, oysters and shellfish with a lively seaside atmosphere.
Marleys
Established harbour restaurant specialising in mussels, fish and Belgian-style dishes. Relaxed, dependable and well known among locals.
Rocksalt
Refined restaurant in The Harbour Arm area known for seasonal small plates and polished cooking in a stylish modern setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Hotels and dining are often cheaper than London, but peak-season stays and seafront meals can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Round up taxi fares. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Middelburg Square -> Folkestone Central Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Stagecoach buses serve most local routes in Folkestone. Contactless card payment is generally accepted on board.
- Use the Stagecoach Bus app for tickets and live bus times. Check route details before travel, especially on Sundays.
FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Folkestone
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Manchester to Folkestone can start from as little as $27 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Folkestone is $36 (€29) ; 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 Folkestone is 8h 35m to travel the 219 miles (354 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 Folkestone leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Folkestone leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Manchester to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Folkestone. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester and Folkestone 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, Failsworth, Oldham Road, Manchester, Broadway / Trevor Dr (New Moston) . When arriving in Folkestone , you can end your journey in bus stations like Folkestone, Middelburg Square .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Manchester, Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Folkestone, Middelburg Square, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Folkestone including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Folkestone for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester to Folkestone:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester to Folkestone 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 Folkestone.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester to Folkestone:
- 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 Folkestone:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Manchester to Folkestone.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Manchester to Folkestone with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Folkestone with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Folkestone with the following bus company: National Express.
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 Folkestone, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near the port. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and only use licensed operators to avoid overcharging scams. Additionally, watch out for distractions used by scammers in crowded spots. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help 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 Folkestone
Most Manchester to Folkestone buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Folkestone, Middelburg Square station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Folkestone 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 Folkestone
Which Manchester station do buses to Folkestone leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Folkestone 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 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.
Which Folkestone station do buses from Manchester arrive at?
Buses from Manchester to Folkestone arrive at Folkestone, Middelburg Square. Folkestone, Middelburg Square is 0 miles (1 km) from Folkestone city centre.
Folkestone, Middelburg SquareFolkestone, Middelburg Square, Folkestone CT20 1AU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone, Middelburg Square from Folkestone city centre
Bus17, 91A, 71, 71A, 16, 91, 972, 975, 103, 73, 74 · 4m · $4 · every ~36 min
Folkestone, Middelburg Square bus station facilities and services
Folkestone, Middelburg Square has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square. ATMs are available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square: Accessible via ramps and lowered curbs.
More options for your journey from Manchester to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Folkestone and Manchester
Most popular bus connections to Folkestone
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