Reading to Manchester bus with Megabus

Fri, Apr 10
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Apr 12

Cheapest price

$83

Average price

$132

Fastest journey

6 h 48 m

Average duration

7 h 22 m

Buses per day

14

Distance

241 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Reading to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Reading to Manchester will cost around $132 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Reading to Manchester without transferring at least 2 times.

  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032 · NX540
    4:20 AM8h00
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    12:20 PMManchester, Coach Station
    $831One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX035 · NX540
    9:57 AM9h03
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    7:00 PMManchester, Coach Station
    $1061One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032 · NX540
    3:56 PM8h29
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    12:25 AMManchester, Coach Station
    $1061One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX032 · NX540
    12:26 PM8h34
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    9:00 PMManchester, Coach Station
    $1071One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX120
    1:56 PM7h44
    Reading, Blagrave Street
    9:40 PMManchester, Coach Station
    $1371One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Reading to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $63. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 3m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $63, and a flight costs an average of $69.

Distance: 149 miles (241 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight

$82

Average price

Cheapest

$105

Average price

$148

Average price

6h 3m

Average total duration

5h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 35m

Average total duration

3h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 3m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.7 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

Megabus

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Reading to Manchester Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:20AM
Arrival Time
12:10PM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$69
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:55AM
Arrival Time
02:15PM
Duration
8h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$139
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:27AM
Arrival Time
01:15PM
Duration
6h48
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$137
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:04AM
Arrival Time
03:15PM
Duration
8h11
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$169
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:27AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
7h33
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$164
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:21AM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
8h04
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$141
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:27AM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
7h58
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$140
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:57AM
Arrival Time
05:25PM
Duration
8h28
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$140
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:05AM
Arrival Time
06:40PM
Duration
9h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:57AM
Arrival Time
07:00PM
Duration
9h03
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$106
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:25AM
Arrival Time
07:40PM
Duration
9h15
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$139
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:56AM
Arrival Time
07:20PM
Duration
8h24
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$140
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:05AM
Arrival Time
07:55PM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:45AM
Arrival Time
08:15PM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$138
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:56AM
Arrival Time
08:20PM
Duration
8h24
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$137
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:26PM
Arrival Time
09:00PM
Duration
8h34
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$107
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:45PM
Arrival Time
09:45PM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$139
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:56PM
Arrival Time
09:40PM
Duration
7h44
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$137
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:56PM
Arrival Time
11:10PM
Duration
8h14
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$137
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
10:45PM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$139
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:56PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
8h29
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$106
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:20PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
8h05
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$138
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:26PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
6h49
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$164
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:31PM
Arrival Time
01:40AM
Duration
7h09
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$138
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:03PM
Arrival Time
06:05AM
Duration
9h02
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$144
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:03PM
Arrival Time
06:05AM
Duration
8h02
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$146
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:03PM
Arrival Time
07:35AM
Duration
8h32
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$147

Live departures

Reading to Manchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Manchester buses for tomorrow, Saturday, April 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressRRRA1 · NX032 · NX540
On time
3:20 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
8h00
11:20 AM Manchester, Coach Station
2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX1215:27 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
6h48
12:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX590
On time
6:27 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
7h33
2:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX1207:27 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
7h58
3:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX1217:57 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
8h28
4:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX035 · NX540
On time
8:57 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
9h03
6:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX1209:56 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
8h24
6:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX12010:56 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
8h24
7:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX032 · NX540
On time
11:26 AM Reading, Blagrave Street
8h34
8:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX12012:56 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
7h44
8:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX1201:56 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
8h14
10:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX032 · NX540
On time
2:56 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
8h29
11:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX1815:26 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
6h49
12:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers
national_expressRRRA1 · NX210 · NX4249:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street
8h02
5:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station2 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Manchester by train, bus, or flight

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.

Sun
Apr 12
Mon
Apr 13
Tue
Apr 14
Wed
Apr 15
Thu
Apr 16
Fri
Apr 17
Sat
Apr 18

Why should you book Reading to Manchester buses with Omio?

Megabus as well as National Express offer buses services from Reading to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Manchester.

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 National Express to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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 Megabus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • 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 Reading to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Reading to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Reading to Manchester run on average 15 times per day, taking around 5h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $63 (€51) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 149 miles (241 km) distance in 7h 20m.

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 $31 (€25)
Distance
149 miles (241 km)
Average bus duration
5h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$63 (€51)
Buses per day
15
Fastest bus
7h 20m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
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 $31 (€25)

Bus providers: Megabus, National Express from Reading to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Reading to Manchester with Megabus, National Express for as low as $31 (€25). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
Megabus frequency
4 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.
Entertaiment on board

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
7h 20m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€51)
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.

FAQs: Bus from Reading to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Reading to Manchester can start from as little as $63 (€51) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Manchester is $82 (€65) ; 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 Reading to Manchester is 7h 20m to travel the 149 miles (241 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 Reading to Manchester leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Reading to Manchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 15 buses a day from Reading to Manchester which require at least one change with Megabus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Reading to Manchester, you can count on Megabus, National Express for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Reading and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Reading , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Reading, Blagrave Street, Three Mile Cross, Mereoak Lane - Park & Ride . When arriving in Manchester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Reading, Blagrave Street, which is located around 0 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Manchester from Reading is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Reading to Manchester is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Reading and Manchester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Reading to Manchester for bus company Megabus, National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading 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.
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 Reading 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
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 Reading to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading 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.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Reading 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.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Reading to Manchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Reading to Manchester with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Manchester with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Manchester with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express.
Since neither Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Manchester

Reading
Manchester
The major bus station for departures in Reading is Reading, Blagrave Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading, Blagrave Street for your trip from Reading to Manchester.
Reading, Blagrave StreetAccessibility
Amenities at bus station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible

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