- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.
Cheapest price on Sep 15
CHF25
Average ticket price on Sep 15
CHF47
Fastest journey on Sep 15
7 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
8 h 24 m
Buses on Sep 15
4
Distance
241 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Reading will cost around CHF47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF25.
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 4 buses from Manchester to Reading, including 4 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct buses cover the 241 km distance in an average of 8 h 24 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 35 m .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest buses will take 9 h 15 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.








Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF67 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 30m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF67, while a flight costs an average of CHF303.
Distance: 149 miles (241 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
CHF67 Average price Cheapest | CHF120 Average price | CHF303 Average price | CHF67 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 51m Average total duration 6h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 30m Average total duration Fastest 3h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration 1h 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Reading:
A bus is CHF54 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Reading costing on average CHF120.
A bus is CHF236 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Reading costing on average CHF303.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 0m.
Bus takes on average 6h 21m.
Tickets start at around CHF67 compared to roughly CHF67 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about CHF0.78. The journey takes 6h 21m versus 3h 43m 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 Megabus.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 12:17PM | Duration 7h02 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 01:26PM | Duration 7h41 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:50AM | Arrival Time 01:26PM | Duration 7h36 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 01:17PM | Duration 7h07 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF65 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:50AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price CHF25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 03:28PM | Duration 8h13 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 03:28PM | Duration 8h03 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 04:49PM | Duration 7h59 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 04:49PM | Duration 7h29 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 05:31PM | Duration 8h01 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price CHF58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 06:14PM | Duration 8h24 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 06:46PM | Duration 7h36 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 06:46PM | Duration 7h31 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 08:02PM | Duration 8h32 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 08:47PM | Duration 8h22 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 09:17PM | Duration 8h27 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price CHF54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price CHF57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 09:17PM | Duration 8h07 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 08:41PM | Duration 7h21 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 09:41PM | Duration 8h16 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 10:16PM | Duration 8h01 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 10:16PM | Duration 7h51 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price CHF49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 10:46PM | Duration 8h06 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 12:15AM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price CHF47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 10:11PM | Duration 7h06 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 12:15AM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price CHF50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 12:15AM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 12:15AM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 05:11AM | Duration 7h41 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 07:47AM | Duration 7h52 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF56 |
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Reading buses for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NX540 · NX025 · RRRA1 | 2:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h06 | 10:46 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
NX540 · NX032 · RRRA1 | 3:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h45 | 12:15 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
NX540 · NX035 · RRRA1 | 3:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h45 | 12:15 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
NX120 · NX210 · RRRA1 | 9:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h41 | 5:11 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
NX424 · NX210 · RRRA1 | 11:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h52 | 7:47 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 2 transfers | |
![]() | 6:50 AM Manchester | 7h35 | 2:25 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 9:30 AM Manchester | 8h01 | 5:31 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 1:00 PM Manchester | 9h15 | 10:15 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, 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.
Buses from Manchester to Reading run on average 16 times per day, taking around 6h 21m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at CHF47 but you can travel from only CHF25 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 149 miles (241 km) distance in 5h 6m.
Distance 149 miles (241 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF47 |
Buses per day 16 |
Fastest bus 5h 6m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.
Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.
Modern art gallery in the civic centre showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists in a central, accessible space.
University museum with strong agriculture, countryside, and design collections. Popular for families and one of Reading's standout visits.
Large central park with formal gardens, Thames views, and the iconic Maiwand Lion. A classic place to stroll or relax near downtown.
Historic quarter around the Abbey ruins, museum, and Forbury Gardens. Ideal for understanding Reading's origins on a compact walking route.
Riverside nature reserve and meadow walk beside the Thames. Peaceful paths and wildlife make it a favorite local escape close to the centre.
A Berkshire classic of smoked haddock in a creamy parsley sauce. Traditionally linked to Windsor and widely associated with the wider county.
A rich fruit cake made with currants, butter, eggs, sugar and mixed spice. A long-standing Berkshire tea-time bake.
A soft yeasted bun spiced with caraway and filled with currants, candied peel and sugar. Traditionally baked in Berkshire and nearby counties.
Polished fine dining restaurant known for seasonal British tasting menus and refined service in an elegant central Reading setting.
Popular Reading institution for Lebanese and Middle Eastern plates, known for generous mezze and a lively, casual atmosphere.
Well-regarded independent restaurant serving British and European dishes with seasonal ingredients in a relaxed modern dining room.
Reading is pricier than many UK towns. Hotels and dining are above average, but rail and local buses are manageable for most visitors.
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafes usually do not require tipping.
Official public transport app
Reading, Blagrave Street -> Reading Station, Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Reading 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 Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Manchester to Reading buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Reading, Blagrave Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Reading bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East. ATMs are available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East.
Available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East: Accessible for wheelchairs.
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.
Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Reading, Blagrave Street has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading, Blagrave Street: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need