- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Major museum on Manchester’s industrial heritage, science, engineering, and transport, set on the historic Liverpool Road site.
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$79
Fastest journey
7 h 8 m
Average duration
7 h 19 m
Buses per day
13
Distance
241 km
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 $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
It's difficult to get from Reading to Manchester without transferring at least 2 times.
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX421
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541Omio 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 $19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 4m. 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 $19, and a flight costs an average of $67.
Distance: 149 miles (241 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$69 Average price Cheapest | $74 Average price | $153 Average price | $81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 4m Average total duration 5h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 4m Average total duration Fastest 1h 4m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Manchester:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Manchester costing on average $74 (€61).
A bus is $84 (€69) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Reading to Manchester costing on average $153 (€126).
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 4m.
Bus takes on average 5h 34m.
Tickets start at around $69 (€57) compared to roughly $81 (€67) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $12 (€10). The journey takes 5h 34m versus 4h 30m 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 Megabus.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, 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 Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:57AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 7h53 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $102 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:57AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 8h03 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:04AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 8h11 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:05AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:21AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 8h04 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:57AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 7h08 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:23AM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 8h47 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:56AM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 8h14 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:03AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 8h22 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:43AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 8h22 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:56AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 8h09 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:43PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 7h27 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:56PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 7h14 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:56PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 7h34 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:03PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 7h27 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:23PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 7h27 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:26PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 7h24 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:31PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 7h44 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 7h32 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:26PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 7h14 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:31PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 7h09 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:03PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 9h02 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:03PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 8h02 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $121 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:03PM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 8h32 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Manchester buses for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX590 | 6:55 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h05 | 3:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541 | On time 8:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h40 | 4:05 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX540 | On time 9:05 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 9h05 | 6:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541 | On time 10:23 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h47 | 7:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX540 | On time 11:03 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h22 | 7:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX030 · NX540 | On time 11:03 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h22 | 7:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120 | On time 11:43 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h22 | 8:05 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120 | On time 1:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h27 | 9:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541 | On time 3:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h27 | 10:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541 | On time 4:23 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h27 | 11:50 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX541 | On time 6:50 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 6h50 | 1:40 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX424 | On time 9:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 9h02 | 6:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX421 | 11:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h32 | 7:35 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, July 12 | |||||
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX540 | 4:20 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h50 | 12:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX035 · NX540 | 5:57 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h53 | 1:50 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX025 · NX540 | 5:57 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h53 | 1:50 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, 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.
Buses from Reading to Manchester run on average 14 times per day, taking around 5h 34m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) 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 5m.
Distance 149 miles (241 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 7h 5m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
Major museum on Manchester’s industrial heritage, science, engineering, and transport, set on the historic Liverpool Road site.
Large university museum with noted natural history, archaeology, and cultural collections; recently renewed and very popular.
Football museum with trophies, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits; one of the city’s best-known paid attractions.
Creative district known for street art, independent shops, music culture, and photogenic corners popular with younger visitors.
Historic canalside area with Roman origins, warehouses, waterside walks, and one of the city’s most scenic urban settings.
Important civic square framed by major buildings and transport links, often used as a central point for exploring the city.
A classic local dessert made with shortcrust pastry, raspberry jam, custard, coconut, and a cherry. It is one of Manchester’s best-known traditional sweets.
A famous pastry from Eccles in Greater Manchester, filled with currants, sugar, and spice. It is a long-established regional bake closely associated with the area.
A traditional blood sausage strongly linked with nearby Bury and widely eaten in Manchester, often served at breakfast. It is a staple of the region’s food culture.
A well-known casual spot celebrated for high-quality Neapolitan pizza, relaxed service, and consistently strong local reputation.
A popular casual venue for Indian street food and craft beer, known for lively atmosphere and strong vegetarian selection.
An established fine-dining restaurant in The Midland, known for polished modern British cooking and elegant historic surroundings.
Moderate by UK standards. Budget food is easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.
Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping is not expected for pubs or counter service.
Official public transport app
Manchester Airport, Manchester -> Manchester Piccadilly, 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.

Most Reading to Manchester buses use the Reading, Blagrave Street to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Use this guide to compare Reading and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Reading, Blagrave Street has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading, Blagrave Street: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.
Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need