- Must visit
Manor House Museum
Town museum on Ilkley Moor’s edge with Roman finds, local archaeology, and the famous carved rocks, ideal for learning the area’s story.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Ilkley
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a bus from Manchester to Ilkley and enjoy the approximately 34 miles (56 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 02:35, the last at 23:35.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €18
Distance 34 miles (56 km) |
First bus 2:35 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €18
Manchester to Ilkley Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:25AM | Arrival Time 07:39AM | Duration 3h14 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 09:56AM | Duration 3h01 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 10:41AM | Duration 3h01 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 12:01PM | Duration 3h36 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 12:42PM | Duration 2h47 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 02:46PM | Duration 3h36 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 03:34PM | Duration 2h54 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 05:42PM | Duration 3h47 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 06:22PM | Duration 2h57 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:25PM | Arrival Time 08:11PM | Duration 3h46 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 08:48PM | Duration 2h38 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 10:48PM | Duration 3h18 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 06:26AM | Duration 6h27 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Complete guide to Ilkley
Things to do in Ilkley
Discover the best of Ilkley — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ilkley trip today.
- Recommended
Ilkley Manor House Art Gallery
Independent gallery showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists in a central, welcoming space near the main shopping streets.
Contemporary Arts
Commercial contemporary gallery known locally for curated exhibitions and original works, useful for visitors seeking Ilkley’s current art scene.
- Must visit
Ilkley Moor
Expansive moorland above town with famous rock formations, prehistoric carvings, and wide views; a classic place for walks and sunset scenery.
- Recommended
Riverside Gardens
Riverside park beside the Wharfe with lawns, play areas, and easy access to the water, popular for relaxing and family strolls.
- Recommended
Hebers Ghyll
Wooded valley walk south of town with streams, stepping stones, and shady paths, a local favourite for short scenic walks near the centre.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Tea Loaf
A rich fruit loaf from nearby Yorkshire, baked with tea-soaked dried fruit and spices. Traditionally sliced, buttered, and served with tea.
Yorkshire Roast Beef With Yorkshire Pudding
Tender roast beef served with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, gravy, and vegetables. A classic Sunday meal deeply tied to Yorkshire dining traditions.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Curd Tart
Small tart filled with curd cheese, currants, rosewater, and spices. A historic Yorkshire pastry linked to festive and regional baking traditions.
Box Tree Restaurant
Stylish modern British restaurant in Ilkley, known for seasonal tasting and à la carte menus in an intimate setting.
Emporio Italia
Busy Italian restaurant and deli serving pasta, pizza, and regional specials in a lively, well-known town-centre setting.
The Commune
Popular bistro and wine bar offering modern British dishes, brunch, and small plates in a relaxed central Ilkley space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK market town: stays and dining are pricier than many nearby towns, but local buses and trains keep day-to-day travel manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for a budget meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafés usually just small change or no tip.
FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Ilkley
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Ilkley 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 Ilkley, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The earliest bus from Manchester to Ilkley leaves at 2:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Ilkley leaves at 11:35 PM.
When departing from Manchester , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Coach Station . When arriving in Ilkley , you can end your journey in bus stations like Leeds, Leeds Bradford Airport, Shipley, Market Square, Keighley, Towngate, Bradford, Interchange Station .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 Leeds, Leeds Bradford Airport, located 1 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Ilkley including taking a bus and train.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Ilkley.
No, the bus from Manchester to Ilkley has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Manchester to Ilkley.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Manchester to Ilkley.
No, luggage for the bus from Manchester to Ilkley needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Manchester to Ilkley.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Manchester to Ilkley.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Ilkley.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Manchester to Ilkley.
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 Ilkley, travelers should be aware of typical small-town safety concerns such as pickpocketing in busy areas and scams involving overcharging in local taxis. It is advisable to use licensed taxi services and keep personal belongings secure, especially around popular spots like Ilkley Moor and the town center. Overall, Ilkley is considered a safe destination with low crime rates.
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 Ilkley
Most Manchester to Ilkley buses use the Manchester, Airport to Leeds, Leeds Bradford Airport station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Ilkley 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 Ilkley
Which Manchester station do buses to Ilkley leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Ilkley 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, 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.
Most popular bus connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Ilkley
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ilkley and Manchester
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