- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Major museum exploring Manchester’s industrial heritage, science, engineering and transport on the historic Liverpool Road site.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Manchester
Showing times and prices for Jun 13
Cheapest price
$10
Average price
$12
Fastest journey
45 m
Average duration
1 h
Buses per day
3
Distance
45 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Manchester will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Preston for Manchester on Sat, Jun 13, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 13 the direct buses cover the 45 km distance in an average of 1 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 45 m .
On Sat, Jun 13 the slowest buses will take 1 h 10 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.
FlixBus2:15 PM1h05Preston, Bus Station3:20 PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange$101One-way0 transfers
NX42410:35 PM1h10Preston, Bus Station11:45 PMManchester, Coach Station$131One-way0 transfers- NX1813:20 AM0h45Preston, Bus Station4:05 AMManchester, Coach Station$131One-way0 transfers
- NX1813:20 AM0h45Preston, Bus Station4:05 AMManchester, Coach Station$131One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus2:15 PM1h05Preston, Bus Station3:20 PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange$101One-way0 transfers
- NX42410:35 PM1h10Preston, Bus Station11:45 PMManchester, Coach Station$131One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Preston to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $5, and a bus costs an average of $8.
Distance: 27 miles (45 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$11 Average price | $11 Average price Cheapest | $12 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 37m Average total duration 1h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 10m Average total duration Fastest 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg 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 Preston to Manchester is a train with an average price of $11 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Manchester:
A train is $0.48 (€0.39) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Preston to Manchester costing on average $11 (€9).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 40m.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Manchester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Manchester 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 $11 (€9) compared to roughly $12 (€10) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $0.95 (€0.77). The journey takes 1h 7m versus 1h 3m 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, Megabus, FlixBus.
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.
Preston to Manchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 04:05AM | Duration 0h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 1h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $13 |
Live departures
Preston to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Manchester buses for today, Friday, June 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX181 | 3:20 AM Preston, Bus Station | 0h45 | 4:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX424 | 10:35 PM Preston, Bus Station | 1h10 | 11:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Manchester 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.
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Jun 14
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Jun 15
Tue
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Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Why should you book Preston to Manchester buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus or FlixBus offer buses services from Preston to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Manchester.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Manchester.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Manchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Manchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Manchester run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 7m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $8 (€6) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by train.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest bus covers the 27 miles (45 km) distance in 45m.
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 $5 (€4)
Distance 27 miles (45 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€6) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 45m |
First bus 12:03 AM |
Last bus 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $5 (€4)
Bus providers: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus from Preston to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Preston to Manchester with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for as low as $5 (€4). 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 Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Price
$8 (€6)
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 Duration
45m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 0m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
Megabus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
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).
Additional luggage
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.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
Complete guide to Manchester
Things to do in Manchester
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Art Gallery
Leading civic gallery with important British art, design, fashion and rotating exhibitions in the city centre.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
Large university museum with acclaimed natural history, archaeology and cultural collections after a major redevelopment.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Creative district known for street art, indie culture, music heritage, vintage character and photogenic backstreets.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Canal-side conservation area with Roman roots, warehouses, bridges and some of Manchester’s best urban walks.
- Recommended
Albert Square
Historic civic square framed by landmark architecture and a frequent focal point for events and city photos.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Tart
A classic Manchester dessert with a shortcrust pastry shell, raspberry jam, custard, and coconut, often topped with a cherry.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A famous Greater Manchester pastry made with flaky pastry filled with currants, butter, and sugar, traditionally eaten as a local sweet treat.
- Gluten-free
Black Pudding
A traditional North West breakfast staple made from pork blood, oats, and seasoning, strongly associated with nearby Bury and commonly served in Manchester.
Hawksmoor Manchester
A highly regarded steak and seafood restaurant set in a former courthouse, popular for British ingredients, polished service, and a lively atmosphere.
Dishoom Manchester
A very popular restaurant inspired by Bombay Irani cafes, praised for flavorful dishes, distinctive decor, and all-day dining.
The French
A renowned fine dining restaurant in central Manchester, known for refined modern British cooking and elegant service in a historic setting.
British Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels, drinks, and central dining cost more on weekends and during major events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included at 10-12.5% in restaurants; if not, tip about 10% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for pubs or takeaway, but small change is appreciated.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Manchester Airport -> Manchester Piccadilly
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- On buses in Greater Manchester, adult single fares are capped at GBP 2.00 and contactless card payment is available on many services.
- For tram and train travel, use contactless or buy tickets before boarding where required, as onboard sales may not be available.
FAQs: Bus from Preston to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Preston to Manchester can start from as little as $8 (€6) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Manchester is $11 (€9) ; 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 Preston to Manchester is 45m to travel the 27 miles (45 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 Preston to Manchester leaves at 12:03 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Manchester leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Preston to Manchester with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Preston to Manchester, you can count on National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Preston and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Manchester from Preston is worth doing with a journey time of 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Preston to Manchester is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Manchester including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston to Manchester:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- 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 Manchester for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Manchester are:
- Manchester Art Gallery, a public art museum housing an extensive collection of fine art and decorative pieces
- Science and Industry Museum, an interactive museum exploring Manchester's industrial heritage and scientific achievements
- Manchester Cathedral, a historic Gothic-style cathedral known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere
- The John Rylands Library, a neo-Gothic library with an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts
- Castlefield, a historic area with Roman ruins and picturesque canals, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The best things to do in Manchester include:
- Old Trafford, the iconic football stadium and home to Manchester United, offering tours and a museum dedicated to the club's history
- The Northern Quarter, a vibrant district known for its independent shops, cafes, and street art
- Visit the Manchester Opera House for a captivating performance
- Explore the vibrant nightlife at Deansgate Locks, a popular area with bars and clubs
- Enjoy a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, offering beautiful landscapes and recreational activities.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston to Manchester 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.
- 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 National Express, FlixBus.
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 Preston to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston to Manchester:
- 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).
- 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 Manchester:
- 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.
- 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 Manchester. 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 Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Preston nor Manchester 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Manchester 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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Preston to Manchester
Preston
Manchester
The major bus station for departures in Preston is Preston, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston, Bus Station for your trip from Preston to Manchester.
Preston, Bus Station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Manchester is Manchester, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Coach Station for your trip to Manchester from Preston.
Manchester, Coach Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Car connection
Chorlton StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Fast Food Express (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Coach Station
- Bus: 50, 192, 201, 203, 205, 219, 255, 256 Train: Manchester Piccadilly Metro: Piccadilly Gardens
Manchester, Airport
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
2 kmCar connection
Terminal Road NorthWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Burger King (in the station)
- Giraffe (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal, with several companies offering services.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, assistance
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Airport
- Bus: 43, 103 Train: Manchester Airport
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:30
Car connection
ShudehillWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside the interchange.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
- Bus: 42, 43, 135 Tram: Metrolink
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Preston
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