The cheapest and fastest buses from Watford to Manchester
Cheapest price
$79
Average price
$83
Fastest journey
4 h 57 m
Average duration
5 h 16 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
238 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Watford to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Watford to Manchester will cost around $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
It's difficult to get from Watford to Manchester without transferring at least 3 times.










Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Watford to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Watford to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $46. 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 train costs an average of $46, and a flight costs an average of $72.
Distance: 147 miles (238 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|
$76 Average price Cheapest | $184 Average price |
3h 5m Average total duration 2h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Watford to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Watford to Manchester buses for tomorrow, Sunday, March 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 7:32 AM Watford | 5h48 | 1:20 PM Manchester | 3 transfers | |
![]() | 7:47 AM Watford | 6h23 | 2:10 PM Manchester | 3 transfers | |
![]() | 10:40 AM Watford | 5h10 | 3:50 PM Manchester | 3 transfers | |
![]() | 12:10 PM Watford | 5h55 | 6:05 PM Manchester | 3 transfers | |
![]() | 1:40 PM Watford | 5h20 | 7:00 PM Manchester | 3 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Watford to Manchester by train or flight
Compare 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.
Mar 23
Mar 24
Mar 25
Mar 26
Mar 27
Mar 28
Mar 29
Why should you book Watford to Manchester buses with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Watford to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Watford to Manchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Watford to Manchester
Take a bus from Watford to Manchester and enjoy the approximately 147 miles (238 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55.
Distance 147 miles (238 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 9m |
Buses per day 9 |
First bus 00:05 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Bus providers: National Express from Watford to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Watford to Manchester with National Express for as low as $46 (€37). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
FAQs: Bus from Watford to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Watford 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.

- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Watford to Manchester
- 05:00-23:30
- Free Wi-Fi
- Available outside the interchange.
- Elevators, ramps
- Available in the station.
- Bus: 42, 43, 135 Tram: Metrolink
- 00:00-23:59
- Free Wi-Fi
- Burger King (in the station)
- Giraffe (in the station).
- Available outside the terminal, with several companies offering services.
- Elevators, ramps, assistance
- Available in the station.
- Bus: 43, 103 Train: Manchester Airport
More options for your journey from Watford to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need


