- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Nottingham to Preston
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Nottingham to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $43 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 5m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, while a train costs an average of $76.
Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$43 Average price Cheapest | $76 Average price | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 49m Average total duration 5h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 5m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | 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 Nottingham to Preston is a bus with an average price of $43.
This is compared to other travel options from Nottingham to Preston:
A bus is $33 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nottingham to Preston costing on average $76.
The fastest way to travel from Nottingham to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 19m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Nottingham and Preston including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Nottingham to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $43 compared to roughly $38 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-5.21. The journey takes 5h 19m versus 2h 26m 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.
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.
Nottingham to Preston Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Live departures
Nottingham to Preston bus times
The table below shows live departures for Nottingham to Preston buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX240 · NX170 · NX181 | 8:30 PM Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station | 5h55 | 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Nottingham to Preston by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Why should you book Nottingham to Preston buses with Omio?
Megabus as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Nottingham to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Nottingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Megabus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Megabus, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham to Preston.
- 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 Megabus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Nottingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Nottingham to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Nottingham to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Nottingham to Preston run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 but you can travel from only $27 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:15, the last at 22:35. The fastest bus covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 4h 10m.
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 $27
Distance 85 miles (138 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 4h 10m |
First bus 2:15 AM |
Last bus 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $27
Bus providers: National Express from Nottingham to PrestonYou can travel by bus between Nottingham to Preston with National Express for as low as $27. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
4h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
$27
National Express frequency
1 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.
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Preston Bus Station -> Preston Railway Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 14 min
- Most local buses in Preston accept contactless card payment; buy before boarding only if your operator requires it.
- Preston Bus Station is the main hub for city services; check your operator in advance because fares and tickets vary by company.
FAQs: Bus from Nottingham to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nottingham to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Nottingham to Preston can start from as little as $27 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Nottingham to Preston is $43 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Nottingham to Preston is 4h 10m to travel the 85 miles (138 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Nottingham to Preston leaves at 2:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Nottingham to Preston leaves at 10:35 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Nottingham to Preston which require at least one change with Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Nottingham to Preston, you can count on Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Preston. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Nottingham and Preston and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Preston, Bus Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Preston from Nottingham is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Nottingham to Preston is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Nottingham and Preston including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Nottingham to Preston:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Nottingham to Preston for bus company Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Nottingham to Preston depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Nottingham to Preston.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Nottingham to Preston:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Nottingham to Preston:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Nottingham to Preston. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Nottingham to Preston with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Nottingham to Preston with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Nottingham to Preston with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Nottingham nor Preston are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Nottingham to Preston among Omio's users.
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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Nottingham to Preston
Most Nottingham to Preston buses use the Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Nottingham and Preston bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Nottingham
Arrival bus stations in Preston
Which Nottingham station do buses to Preston leave from?
Buses from Nottingham to Preston leave from Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Nottingham city centre at Canal Street, Nottingham NG1 7EH, United Kingdom.
Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus StationCanal Street, Nottingham NG1 7EH, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station from Nottingham city centre
BusLc9 · 4m · $2 · every ~1 min
Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Broadmarsh (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station), Coffee Corner (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Which Preston station do buses from Nottingham arrive at?
Buses from Nottingham to Preston arrive at Preston, Bus Station. Preston, Bus Station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · $11 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Most popular bus connections from Nottingham
More options for your journey from Nottingham to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Preston and Nottingham
Most popular bus connections to Preston
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