- Must visit
Southend Central Museum
Southend's main local history museum, covering archaeology, natural history, and social heritage in a central Victorian building.
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Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Manchester to Southend-on-Sea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €187 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 50m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €187, while a flight costs an average of €343.
Distance: 182 miles (294 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€187 Average price Cheapest | €343 Average price | €79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 2m Average total duration 3h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 1h 50m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.9 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea is a train with an average price of €187.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea:
A train is €156 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea costing on average €343.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 50m.
Other travel options to Southend-on-Sea take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Southend-on-Sea including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Southend-on-Sea by train or flight
Compare 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a bus from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea and enjoy the approximately 182 miles (294 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 04:34, the last at 20:38.
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 €67
Distance 182 miles (294 km) |
First bus 4:34 AM |
Last bus 8:38 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 €67
Complete guide to Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Must visit
Prittlewell Priory Museum
Historic priory museum with period rooms, monastic remains, and gardens, offering one of the area's richest heritage experiences.
- Recommended
Southend Pier Museum
Specialist museum exploring Southend's famous pier, seaside holidays, and coastal life through engaging local displays.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Long sandy beach and promenade area popular for walks, sea views, amusements, and classic Southend seaside atmosphere.
- Must visit
Old Leigh
Historic fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, and estuary views, full of local character and maritime heritage.
- Recommended
Chalkwell Park
Large clifftop park with gardens, sports space, and open views over the Thames estuary, ideal for relaxed coastal walks.
- Gluten-free
Cockles
Fresh cockles harvested from the Thames estuary, long linked with Southend's seafront stalls and seafood trade. Usually served with vinegar and pepper.
- Gluten-free
Whelks
Whelks are sea snails traditionally sold at Essex fish stalls. In Southend they are a classic seaside snack, eaten cold with salt, vinegar, and pepper.
- Gluten-free
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are a historic Thames estuary dish. Chopped eels are cooked in spiced stock that sets into jelly, a traditional East End and Essex specialty.
Roslin Beach Hotel Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with modern British cooking and polished service. Well regarded for tasting menus and a refined special-occasion atmosphere.
West's Seafood Restaurant
Classic seafront fish and chip restaurant known for fresh seafood, generous portions, and a traditional Southend seaside atmosphere.
The Fishermen's Wharf
Long-established seafood restaurant focusing on local fish and shellfish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront with strong local reputation.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Hotels can rise in summer, but casual dining and local transit are usually cheaper than London. Attractions and seafront snacks can add up.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 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
- £3-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Chichester Road, Southend-on-Sea -> Southend Central, Southend-on-Sea
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on local Arriva buses, so you can tap a bank card or mobile wallet when boarding.
- Check operator zones and ticket types before travel, as Southend services may be run by different bus companies with separate fares.
FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
More options for your journey from Manchester to Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Southend-on-Sea and Manchester
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