- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.
Cheapest price on Sep 19
lei213
Average ticket price on Sep 19
lei213
Fastest journey on Sep 19
4 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
4 h 59 m
Buses on Sep 19
4
Distance
189 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Milton Keynes to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Milton Keynes to Manchester will cost around lei213 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei213.
It's difficult to get from Milton Keynes to Manchester without transferring at least once.
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FlixBus · FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Milton Keynes to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of lei169 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 26m. 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 lei169, while a flight costs an average of lei1983.
Distance: 117 miles (189 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
lei169 Average price Cheapest | lei326 Average price | lei1983 Average price | lei310 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 0m Average total duration 4h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 52m Average total duration 1h 52m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.1kg 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 Milton Keynes to Manchester:
A bus is lei158 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Milton Keynes to Manchester costing on average lei326.
A bus is lei1814 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Milton Keynes to Manchester costing on average lei1983.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 56m.
Bus takes on average 4h 30m.
Tickets start at around lei169 compared to roughly lei310 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about lei141. The journey takes 4h 30m versus 2h 58m 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 National Express.
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 12:50AM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei132 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35AM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei132 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:50AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price lei210 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei152 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price lei120 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei205 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei171 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei152 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei171 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price lei90 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei132 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price lei185 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei152 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price lei185 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei152 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price lei171 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei132 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei132 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei152 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:10PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price lei171 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price lei152 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price lei158 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price lei303 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price lei132 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price lei206 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price lei150 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 02:15AM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei119 |
The table below shows live departures for Milton Keynes to Manchester buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NX540 | 2:05 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h35 | 5:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX541 | 2:15 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 4h20 | 6:35 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX540 | 3:10 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h30 | 6:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX541 | 3:25 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 4h15 | 7:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX540 | 4:30 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h25 | 7:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX541 | 4:50 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 4h10 | 9:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX540 | 5:45 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h20 | 9:05 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX541 | 5:50 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h55 | 9:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX540 | 6:45 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h05 | 9:50 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX541 | 7:00 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h45 | 10:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX540 | 8:00 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h00 | 11:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX541 | 8:00 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h50 | 11:50 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX540 | 8:50 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h05 | 11:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX541 | 9:05 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h20 | 12:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX540 | 9:35 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 2h55 | 12:30 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX541 | 10:05 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 3h35 | 1:40 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX540 | 11:35 PM Milton Keynes, Coachway | 2h40 | 2:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:50 AM Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station | 4h50 | 11:40 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:50 AM Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station | 4h30 | 11:20 AM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:40 AM Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station | 5h05 | 3:45 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:40 AM Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station | 5h30 | 4:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 1 transfer | |
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 Milton Keynes to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at lei70 but you can travel from only lei62 by train.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 117 miles (189 km) distance in 2h 40m.
Distance 117 miles (189 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price lei70 |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 2h 40m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.
Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.
The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.
Historic canal-side district with Roman remains, warehouses, and walkable towpaths. One of Manchester's most atmospheric urban areas.
Central square framed by grand civic buildings, museums, and monuments. A classic starting point for exploring the city centre.
Creative quarter of street art, music history, indie shops, and nightlife. It is one of Manchester's most characterful neighborhoods.
A flaky pastry pie filled with spiced potatoes, onion and often chickpeas. Created by Manchester’s South Asian community and now a city staple.
A comforting Northern pudding of suet pastry filled with beef and onion, traditionally steamed and served with gravy. Common in Greater Manchester pubs.
Manchester’s classic order of battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and curry sauce. A long-standing local takeaway favourite.
Iconic market bakery and café known for Manchester tarts, Eccles cakes and hearty lunches. Casual, busy and deeply rooted in local food culture.
Refined modern British fine dining in a restored townhouse. Known for tasting menus, polished service and one of Manchester’s top culinary reputations.
Lively Indian restaurant famous for bold curries, grills and chaat. A long-established Rusholme favourite with a casual, energetic atmosphere.
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.
Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milton Keynes to Manchester 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 Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Milton Keynes to Manchester buses use the Milton Keynes, Coachway to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Use this guide to compare Milton Keynes and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station is 1 km from Milton Keynes city centre. Public transport options include:
Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: There is a cafe and a snack bar in the station.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the station. ATMs are aTM available in the main hall.
Ticket office support is available at Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station.
Available at Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Milton Keynes, Central Railway Station: Station is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
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, 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.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need