Southampton to Manchester bus with National Express

Wed, Aug 05
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

€31

Average price

€40

Fastest journey

6 h 55 m

Average duration

7 h 16 m

Buses per day

12

Distance

292 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Manchester will cost around €40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €31.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Southampton to Manchester without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressNX032 · NX540
    5:35 AM9h05
    Southampton, Coach Station
    2:40 PMManchester, Coach Station
    311One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX032 · NX424
    6:30 PM11h35
    Southampton, Coach Station
    6:05 AMManchester, Coach Station
    321One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX032 · NX540
    4:15 AM7h55
    Southampton, Coach Station
    12:10 PMManchester, Coach Station
    331One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX160 · NX120
    4:00 PM6h55
    Southampton, Coach Station
    10:55 PMManchester, Coach Station
    371One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX032 · NX421
    8:30 PM11h05
    Southampton, Coach Station
    7:35 AMManchester, Coach Station
    371One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Southampton to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Southampton to Manchester run on average 14 times per day, taking around 6h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €17 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 181 miles (292 km) distance in 7h 10m.

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
Distance
181 miles (292 km)
Average bus duration
6h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
€17
Buses per day
14
Fastest bus
7h 10m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
7 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

Southampton to Manchester Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:05AM
Arrival Time
11:50AM
Duration
7h45
Departure days
Mon, Sun
Cheapest price
28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:15AM
Arrival Time
12:10PM
Duration
7h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
31
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:20AM
Arrival Time
11:50AM
Duration
7h30
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:05AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
8h45
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
45
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35AM
Arrival Time
02:40PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
27
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:05AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
7h45
Departure days
Mon, Sun
Cheapest price
28
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:25AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:55AM
Arrival Time
04:05PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
04:05PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:15AM
Arrival Time
06:10PM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
21
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
8h45
Departure days
Mon, Sun
Cheapest price
29
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:05AM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55AM
Arrival Time
07:40PM
Duration
7h45
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
61
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:10PM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
10:10PM
Duration
9h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
20
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:15PM
Arrival Time
10:10PM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
16
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
10:55PM
Duration
6h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
01:40AM
Duration
9h10
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
20
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:20PM
Arrival Time
02:15AM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
02:15AM
Duration
8h45
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:30PM
Arrival Time
06:05AM
Duration
11h35
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
06:05AM
Duration
11h05
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:30PM
Arrival Time
07:35AM
Duration
11h05
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
30

Live departures

Southampton to Manchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Manchester buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX160 · NX1204:00 PM Southampton, Coach Station
6h55
10:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX032 · NX5414:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station
9h10
1:40 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX032 · NX4246:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station
11h35
6:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX032 · NX4218:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station
11h05
7:35 AM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
Wednesday, August 5
National ExpressNX032 · NX5404:15 AM Southampton, Coach Station
7h55
12:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:20 AM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University)
7h30
11:50 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX032 · NX5405:35 AM Southampton, Coach Station
9h05
2:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:25 AM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University)
7h25
1:50 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX160 · NX5418:55 AM Southampton, Coach Station
7h10
4:05 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus11:05 AM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University)
8h25
7:30 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX160 · NX54112:10 PM Southampton, Coach Station
7h20
7:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX032 · NX54012:15 PM Southampton, Coach Station
9h55
10:10 PM Manchester, Coach Station1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Southampton to Manchester buses with Omio?

National Express as well as Megabus or FlixBus offer buses services from Southampton to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton 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 Southampton 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton to Manchester.

Bus providers: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus from Southampton to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Manchester with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for as low as €17. 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
7h 25m
Cheapest Price
€27
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
7h 10m
Cheapest Price
€17
National Express frequency
10 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
5h 55m
Cheapest Price
€47
Megabus frequency
5 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

Science and Industry Museum

Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.

FAQs: Bus from Southampton to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Manchester can start from as little as €17 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Manchester is €31 ; 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 Southampton to Manchester is 7h 10m to travel the 181 miles (292 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 Southampton to Manchester leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Manchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 14 buses a day from Southampton to Manchester which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Southampton 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 Southampton and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Southampton , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Southampton, Coach Station, Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University), Southampton, University . When arriving in Manchester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East, Manchester, Airport .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Southampton, Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Southampton and Manchester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton 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 Southampton to Manchester for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton 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 Southampton to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Manchester with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
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 Southampton to Manchester

Most Southampton to Manchester buses use the Southampton, Coach Station to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Southampton
Arrival bus stations in Manchester

Which Southampton station do buses to Manchester leave from?

Buses from Southampton to Manchester leave from Southampton, Coach Station. The station is from Southampton city centre at Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom.
Southampton, Coach StationHarbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton, Coach Station from Southampton city centre

BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min

Southampton, Coach Station bus station facilities and services

Southampton, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café Express (in the station), Sandwich Bar (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance for cash withdrawals.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Coach Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.

Southampton, Burgess Rd (Library)
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton, Burgess Rd (Library) from Southampton city centre

BusU2b, U2 · 13m · €2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 24m · €2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 28m · €2 · every ~37 min
Southampton, University
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton, University from Southampton city centre

BusU2b, U2 · 11m · €2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 25m · €2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 29m · €2 · every ~37 min

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