- Must visit
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum and gallery with fine art, Birmingham history and global collections in a landmark building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Birmingham
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$20
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$21
Fastest journey on Oct 29
3 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
4 h 40 m
Buses on Oct 29
3
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Birmingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Birmingham will cost around $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
Fast buses
On Thu, Oct 29, we found 3 buses from Preston to Birmingham, including 2 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 29 the direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 4 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 5 m .
On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest buses will take 6 h 45 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.
NX1813:20 AM 3h05 Preston, Bus Station 6:25 AM Birmingham, Coach Station $20 1 One-way 0 transfers- NX424
10:35 PM 4h10 Preston, Bus Station 2:45 AM Birmingham, Coach Station $22 1 One-way 0 transfers - RL152 · NX540 · NX541
7:55 AM 6h45 Preston, Bus Station 2:40 PM Birmingham, Coach Station $23 1 One-way 2 transfers
- NX181
3:20 AM 3h05 Preston, Bus Station 6:25 AM Birmingham, Coach Station $20 1 One-way 0 transfers - NX424
10:35 PM 4h10 Preston, Bus Station 2:45 AM Birmingham, Coach Station $22 1 One-way 0 transfers - RL152 · NX540 · NX541
7:55 AM 6h45 Preston, Bus Station 2:40 PM Birmingham, Coach Station $23 1 One-way 2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Birmingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Birmingham run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $15 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 02:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 3h 5m.
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
Distance 95 miles (153 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $15 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 3h 5m |
First bus 2:00 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Preston to Birmingham trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Preston to Birmingham.
Cheap bus tickets from Preston to Birmingham can start from as little as $15 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Birmingham is $31 ; 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 Preston to Birmingham leaves at 2:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Birmingham leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Preston to Birmingham with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Preston to Birmingham Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20AM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 02:45AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Live departures
Preston to Birmingham bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Birmingham buses for today, Wednesday, October 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:35 PM Preston | 4h10 | 1:45 AM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, October 29 | |||||
| NX181 | 3:20 AM Preston, Bus Station | 3h05 | 6:25 AM Birmingham, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| RL152 · NX540 · NX541 | 7:55 AM Preston, Bus Station | 6h45 | 2:40 PM Birmingham, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Preston to Birmingham buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer buses services from Preston to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Birmingham.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Birmingham.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Birmingham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Birmingham.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Birmingham.
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Preston to BirminghamYou can travel by bus between Preston to Birmingham with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $15. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$15
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
3h 5m
Cheapest National Express Price
$21
National Express frequency
3 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 Preston and Birmingham
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 Preston to Birmingham, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Birmingham. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Preston and Birmingham and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston to Birmingham:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Preston to Birmingham for bus company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston to Birmingham 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.
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Preston to Birmingham.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston to Birmingham:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- 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 Preston to Birmingham:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Preston to Birmingham. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Preston to Birmingham with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Birmingham with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Birmingham with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Complete guide to Birmingham
Things to do in Birmingham
Discover the best of Birmingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birmingham trip today.
- Must visit
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Science museum with interactive galleries, engines and family-friendly exhibits in Millennium Point.
- Recommended
The Barber Institute of Fine Arts
Historic home of the Pre-Raphaelite artists, showing furnished rooms, artworks and craft details.
- Must visit
Brindleyplace
Restored canal-side quarter with waterside walks, bars, heritage buildings and easy access to major venues.
- Must visit
Gas Street Basin
Lively canal junction area with historic warehouses, footbridges and one of Birmingham's best urban walks.
- Must visit
Digbeth
Creative district known for street art, independent culture, music heritage and alternative city energy.
- Gluten-free
Balti
A rich curry style developed by Birmingham's South Asian community, often cooked with green chillies, coriander and onions. It is the city's signature dish.
- Vegetarian
Chaat
A spicy Indian snack of potato, chickpeas, noodles, chutneys and crisp pastry pieces. Popular in Birmingham's Pakistani and Indian food culture.
- Vegetarian
Paratha
A flaky layered flatbread, often served with curry at breakfast or late-night eateries in the city. A staple in Birmingham's South Asian dining scene.
Opheem
Michelin-starred fine dining by Aktar Islam, known for modern Indian tasting menus in an elegant canal-side setting.
Adam's
Refined modern British restaurant with inventive tasting menus and polished service in a smart city-centre dining room.
Jyoti's Restaurant
Celebrated Indian vegetarian restaurant in Sparkbrook, loved for dosas, chaats and sweets in a busy casual setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped about 10%. Tipping in cafes is optional.
TfWM
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Birmingham Coach Station -> Birmingham New Street, Birmingham
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless payment is widely accepted on National Express West Midlands buses and West Midlands Metro trams.
- Use Swift or contactless daily capping where available to avoid paying more than the best value adult fare.
Plan your visit to Birmingham
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 Birmingham.
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 Birmingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like shopping districts and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and remain alert in crowded places to avoid these risks.
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 Preston to Birmingham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Birmingham including taking a train and bus.
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 Preston to Birmingham
Most Preston to Birmingham buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Birmingham, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway. Use this guide to compare Preston and Birmingham bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Preston
Arrival bus stations in Birmingham
Which Preston station do buses to Birmingham leave from?
Buses from Preston to Birmingham leave from Preston, Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre at Preston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK.
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.
Which Birmingham station do buses from Preston arrive at?
Buses from Preston to Birmingham most often arrive at Birmingham, Coach Station. Some services arrive at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Birmingham arrival station.
Birmingham, Coach StationMill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DD, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham, Coach Station from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham, Coach Station is 1 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4, 97, 6, X2, 3, 97A, 2, 4A, 5, X1 · 4m · $3 · every ~191 min
X2, 4A, X1, 2, 3, 6, 4, 5 · 13m · $3 · every ~149 min
Birmingham, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Birmingham, 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: Cafeteria and fast-food options inside the station
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
Birmingham, Great Charles Street QueenswayGreat Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway from Birmingham city centre
Bus822, X8, 12, 24, 126, 13, 23, X10, 829, 9 · 2m · $3 · every ~153 min
Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway bus station facilities and services
Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway. ATMs are available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway: Bus stops are wheelchair accessible.
Bus stations for Preston to Birmingham
Check bus stations information for Preston and Birmingham, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Preston , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Preston, Bus Station . When arriving in Birmingham , you can end your journey in bus stations like Birmingham, Coach Station, Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Preston, Bus Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Birmingham, Coach Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Birmingham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Birmingham and Preston
Most popular bus connections to Birmingham
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
