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The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Manchester
Showing times and prices for Dec 08
Cheapest price
€8
Average price
€10
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 €10 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €8.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Preston for Manchester on Mon, Dec 08, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Dec 08 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 Mon, Dec 08 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.
FlixBus02:15PM1h05
Preston, Bus Station03:20PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
€81One-way
0 transfers
NX42410:35PM1h10
Preston, Bus Station11:45PMManchester, Coach Station
€111One-way
0 transfers
NX18103:15AM0h45
Preston, Bus Station04:00AMManchester, Coach Station
€121One-way
0 transfers
NX18103:15AM0h45
Preston, Bus Station04:00AMManchester, Coach Station
€121One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus02:15PM1h05
Preston, Bus Station03:20PMManchester, Shudehill Interchange
€81One-way
0 transfers
NX42410:35PM1h10
Preston, Bus Station11:45PMManchester, Coach Station
€111One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus 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 €2. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 41m. 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 €2, and a bus costs an average of €6.
Distance: 27 miles (45 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€10 Average price | €9 Average price Cheapest |
1h 48m Average total duration 1h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 11m Average total duration Fastest 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Preston to Manchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 04:00AM | Duration 0h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €12 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 1h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €8 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price €11 |
Live departures
Preston to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Manchester buses for today, Sunday, December 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 6:27 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX424 | 10:35 PM Preston, Bus Station | 1h10 | 11:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, December 8 | |||||
| NX181 | 3:15 AM Preston, Bus Station | 0h45 | 4:00 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 2:15 PM Preston, Bus Station | 1h05 | 3:20 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 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 train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Mon
Dec 08
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Dec 13
Sun
Dec 14
Dec 14
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 18m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $8 (€6) but you can travel from only $3 (€2) by train.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:03, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 27 miles (45 km) distance in 1h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $3 (€2)
Distance 27 miles (45 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€6) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 1h 5m |
First bus 00:03 |
Last bus 23:55 |
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 $3 (€2)
Bus providers: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus from Preston to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Preston to Manchester with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus for as low as $3 (€2). 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
2 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
1h 10m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€11)
National Express frequency
2 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.
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 $9 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Manchester is $13 (€10); 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 45 min to travel the 27 mile (44 km) long trip, with around there are 4 buses per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Preston to Manchester leaves at 12: 03AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Preston to Manchester leaves at 10: 55PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Preston to Manchester without having to change trains with Megabus or FlixBus. There are 4 direct buses from Preston to Manchester each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
For the best Preston to Manchester bus to purchase, you can travel safely and comfortably with Megabus, National Express or FlixBus. However, it's always good to check all possible bus companies with services from Preston to Manchester to compare what amenities they may offer.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Preston, Bus Station, which is located around 1.2 miles (1.9 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Coach Station, located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) away from the city centre.
A day trip to Manchester from Preston is worth doing with a journey time of 45 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Preston to Manchester by bus is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Preston to Manchester including taking a bus or train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston to Manchester:
- 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 companies National Express and 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies National Express and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston to Manchester 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.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Preston to Manchester, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
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:
- 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:
- 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 companies: National Express and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Manchester with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Manchester with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus.
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, Shudehill Interchange. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange for your trip to Manchester from Preston.
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
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
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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