Manchester to Reading bus with National Express

Sat, Oct 31
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Reading

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 31
Cheapest price on Oct 31
$66
Average ticket price on Oct 31
$83
Fastest journey on Oct 31
6 h 27 m
Average journey duration on Oct 31
7 h 7 m
Buses on Oct 31
16
Distance
241 km
Cheap tickets

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 $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $66.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Manchester to Reading without transferring at least 2 times.

  • National ExpressNX540 · NX030 · RRRA1
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA1
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX025 · RRRA1
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX025 · RRRA1
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX035 · RRRA1
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Reading run on average 15 times per day, taking around 6h 17m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $55 (€47) but you can travel from only $30 (€25) 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.

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 $30 (€25)

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance149 miles (241 km)
  • Average bus duration6h 17m
  • Cheapest ticket price$55 (€47)
  • Buses per day15
  • Fastest bus5h 6m
  • First bus12:05 AM
  • Last bus11:55 PM
  • Cheapest MonthSep
  • Cheapest DayMon
  • High SeasonJan - Mar
  • Low SeasonApr - Jun
  • Busiest DaySat
  • Least Busy DayFri
  • Best time to book1 day

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 $30 (€25)

Frequently asked questions about your Manchester to Reading trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Manchester to Reading.

Cheap bus tickets from Manchester to Reading can start from as little as $55 (€47) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Reading is $77 (€65) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Manchester to Reading leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Reading leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 15 buses a day from Manchester to Reading which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.

Manchester to Reading Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:45AM
Arrival Time
10:45AM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:15AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15AM
Arrival Time
01:26PM
Duration
8h11
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$63
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:45AM
Arrival Time
01:26PM
Duration
7h41
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:50AM
Arrival Time
01:26PM
Duration
7h36
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
01:17PM
Duration
7h07
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$89
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:15AM
Arrival Time
03:28PM
Duration
8h13
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:25AM
Arrival Time
03:28PM
Duration
8h03
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:50AM
Arrival Time
04:49PM
Duration
7h59
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$66
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:55AM
Arrival Time
04:45PM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$75
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
04:49PM
Duration
7h29
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:50AM
Arrival Time
06:14PM
Duration
8h24
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$73
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:10AM
Arrival Time
06:46PM
Duration
7h36
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:15AM
Arrival Time
06:46PM
Duration
7h31
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$69
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
08:02PM
Duration
8h32
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
8h22
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
7h47
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:10PM
Arrival Time
09:17PM
Duration
8h07
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:20PM
Arrival Time
08:41PM
Duration
7h21
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:25PM
Arrival Time
09:41PM
Duration
8h16
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$66
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
10:16PM
Duration
8h46
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
11:15PM
Duration
9h15
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:15PM
Arrival Time
10:16PM
Duration
8h01
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:25PM
Arrival Time
10:16PM
Duration
7h51
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:30PM
Arrival Time
11:15PM
Duration
8h45
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$60
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:40PM
Arrival Time
10:46PM
Duration
8h06
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:50PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
9h25
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$70
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
10:11PM
Duration
7h06
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$91
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:35PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
8h40
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$60
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:45PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:30PM
Arrival Time
05:10AM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
07:40AM
Duration
7h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$69

Live departures

Manchester to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Reading buses for today, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA18:50 AM Manchester, Coach Station
7h59
4:49 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA111:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station
7h31
6:46 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA11:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
7h47
8:47 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX025 · RRRA11:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h07
9:17 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA12:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station
7h51
10:16 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX025 · RRRA13:35 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h40
12:15 AM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX035 · RRRA13:35 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h40
12:15 AM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX120 · NX210 · RRRA19:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station
7h40
5:10 AM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX424 · NX210 · RRRA111:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station
7h45
7:40 AM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
Saturday, October 31
National ExpressNX421 · NX210 · RRRA12:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station
6h27
9:12 AM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX181 · NX210 · RRRA14:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station
7h52
12:07 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA16:10 AM Manchester, Coach Station
7h17
1:27 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA17:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station
8h00
3:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street2 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Manchester to Reading buses with Omio?

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

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 Reading.

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 Reading.

Bus companies

Bus companies from Manchester to Reading

Buses from Manchester to Reading with National Express. Overnight buses available on this route with National Express. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 National Express Duration
5h 6m
Cheapest National Express Price
$55 (€47)
National Express frequency
15 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.

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Manchester and Reading

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a bus from Manchester to Reading, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Reading for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester to Reading:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester to Reading 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, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Manchester to Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester to Reading:
  • 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 Reading:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Manchester to Reading.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Manchester to Reading with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Reading with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Reading with the following bus company: National Express.

Complete guide to Reading

Things to do in Reading

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

  • Must visit

Reading Museum

Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

Modern art gallery in the civic centre showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists in a central, accessible space.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

University museum with strong agriculture, countryside, and design collections. Popular for families and one of Reading's standout visits.

Pound sterling (£)

Reading is pricier than many UK towns. Hotels and dining are above average, but rail and local buses are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

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.

Plan your visit to Reading

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Reading.

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 Reading, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and unofficial tour guides. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure safety.
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.

FAQs: Bus from Manchester to 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.

FAQs
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Reading including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Manchester to Reading

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.

Departure bus stations in Manchester
Arrival bus stations in Reading

Which Manchester station do buses to Reading leave from?

Buses from Manchester to Reading 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 · $3 · 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, Shudehill InterchangeShudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United KingdomWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester, Shudehill Interchange from Manchester city centre

Bus163, 118, 119, 18, 112, 114, 117, 81 · 3m · $3 · every ~69 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 2m · $3 · every ~23 min

Manchester, Shudehill Interchange bus station facilities and services

Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.

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 · $2 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $3 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $3 · 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.

Bus stations for Manchester to Reading

Check bus stations information for Manchester and Reading, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.

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 . When arriving in Reading , you can end your journey in bus stations like Reading, Blagrave Street .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 Reading, Blagrave Street, located 0 away from the city centre.

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