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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Manchester
Showing times and prices for Feb 26
Cheapest price
$76
Average price
$105
Fastest journey
7 h 19 m
Average duration
7 h 37 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 $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Reading to Manchester without transferring at least 2 times.
RRRA1 · NX030 · NX54004:20PM8h05
Reading, Blagrave Street12:25AMManchester, Coach Station
$761One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX54004:20AM8h00
Reading, Blagrave Street12:20PMManchester, Coach Station
$761One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX54010:25AM8h35
Reading, Blagrave Street07:00PMManchester, Coach Station
$791One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX54012:25PM8h55
Reading, Blagrave Street09:20PMManchester, Coach Station
$791One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX12109:05AM8h35
Reading, Blagrave Street05:40PMManchester, Coach Station
$1051One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX59007:41AM7h19
Reading, Blagrave Street03:00PMManchester, Coach Station
$1251One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX12105:55AM7h20
Reading, Blagrave Street01:15PMManchester, Coach Station
$1061One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX18105:43PM7h32
Reading, Blagrave Street01:15AMManchester, Coach Station
$1291One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX210 · NX12001:45PM7h55
Reading, Blagrave Street09:40PMManchester, Coach Station
$1181One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX54004:20AM8h00
Reading, Blagrave Street12:20PMManchester, Coach Station
$761One-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 |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  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
| 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 Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:41AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 7h19 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $125 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:21AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 8h04 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $106 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $102 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $103 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 11:10PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $98 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 7h32 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $129 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:03PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 8h02 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $105 |
Live departures
Reading to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Manchester buses for today, Wednesday, February 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 4:29 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX181 | 5:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h32 | 1:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX424 | 10:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h02 | 6:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| Thursday, February 26 | |||||
| RRRA1 · NX032 · NX540 | Delayed 11:05 AM 4:20 AMReading, Blagrave Street | 8h00 | 12:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX121 | Delayed 11:05 AM 5:55 AMReading, Blagrave Street | 7h20 | 1:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX590 | Delayed 11:05 AM 7:41 AMReading, Blagrave Street | 7h19 | 3:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120 | Delayed 11:05 AM 8:21 AMReading, Blagrave Street | 8h04 | 4:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX121 | Delayed 11:05 AM 9:05 AMReading, Blagrave Street | 8h35 | 5:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX032 · NX540 | Delayed 11:05 AM 10:25 AMReading, Blagrave Street | 8h35 | 7:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120 | On time 11:05 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h05 | 7:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120 | On time 11:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h45 | 8:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX032 · NX540 | On time 12:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h55 | 9:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120 | On time 1:45 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h55 | 9:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX120 | On time 3:05 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h05 | 11:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX030 · NX540 | On time 4:20 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h05 | 12:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX181 | On time 5:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 7h32 | 1:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX210 · NX424 | On time 10:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 8h02 | 6:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 2 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.
Thu
Feb 26
Feb 26
Fri
Feb 27
Feb 27
Sat
Feb 28
Feb 28
Sun
Mar 01
Mar 01
Mon
Mar 02
Mar 02
Tue
Mar 03
Mar 03
Wed
Mar 04
Mar 04
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
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 00:05 |
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 $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.
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, 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Reading to Manchester for bus company Megabus, National Express.
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.
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 Street
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
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 Reading.
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 Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Reading
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