- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Watford to Manchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
$52
Average ticket price on Oct 13
$52
Fastest journey on Oct 13
4 h 26 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
4 h 26 m
Buses on Oct 13
1
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets
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 $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast buses
On Tue, Oct 13, we found 1 buses from Watford to Manchester, including 1 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 13 the direct buses cover the 238 km distance in an average of 4 h 26 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 26 m .
On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest buses will take 4 h 26 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:39 AM4h26Watford1:05 PMManchester$521One-way0 transfers
- 8:39 AM4h26Watford1:05 PMManchester$521One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Watford to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
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.
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 $18 (€15)
Distance 147 miles (238 km) |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 49 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $18 (€15)
Watford to Manchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 01:35AM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator West Midlands Trains | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 07:32AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 5h48 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 07:47AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 6h23 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator West Midlands Trains | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator West Midlands Trains | Departure Time 08:39AM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 4h26 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 06:05PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Uno | Departure Time 04:03PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 5h57 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator Uno | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 4h57 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 06:17PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 5h38 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 07:54PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 5h51 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Arriva UK | Departure Time 10:17PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 7h58 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $81 |
Live departures
Watford to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Watford to Manchester buses for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 10:17 PM Watford | 7h58 | 6:15 AM Manchester | 3 transfers | |
| Tuesday, October 13 | |||||
| 8:39 AM Watford | 4h26 | 1:05 PM Manchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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
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.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side district with Roman remains, warehouses, and walkable towpaths. One of Manchester's most atmospheric urban areas.
- Must visit
Albert Square
Central square framed by grand civic buildings, museums, and monuments. A classic starting point for exploring the city centre.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Creative quarter of street art, music history, indie shops, and nightlife. It is one of Manchester's most characterful neighborhoods.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Curry Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with spiced potatoes, onion and often chickpeas. Created by Manchester’s South Asian community and now a city staple.
Steak and Onion Pudding
A comforting Northern pudding of suet pastry filled with beef and onion, traditionally steamed and served with gravy. Common in Greater Manchester pubs.
Fish and Chips
Manchester’s classic order of battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and curry sauce. A long-standing local takeaway favourite.
Slattery
Iconic market bakery and café known for Manchester tarts, Eccles cakes and hearty lunches. Casual, busy and deeply rooted in local food culture.
Mana
Refined modern British fine dining in a restored townhouse. Known for tasting menus, polished service and one of Manchester’s top culinary reputations.
Mughli
Lively Indian restaurant famous for bold curries, grills and chaat. A long-established Rusholme favourite with a casual, energetic atmosphere.
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 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.
The earliest bus from Watford to Manchester leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Watford to Manchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
When departing from Watford , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including London, Victoria Coach Station, London, Finchley Road ("Subway" restaurant), Hemel Hempstead, Bridge Street . When arriving in Manchester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East, Manchester, Airport .Passengers board the bus most frequently from London, Victoria Coach Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Watford and Manchester including taking a train, flight, and bus.
No, the bus from Watford to Manchester has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Watford to Manchester.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Watford to Manchester.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Watford to Manchester.
No, luggage for the bus from Watford to Manchester needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Watford to Manchester.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Watford to Manchester.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Watford to Manchester.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Watford to Manchester.
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 Watford to Manchester
Most Watford to Manchester buses use the London, Finchley Road ("Subway" restaurant) to Manchester, Shudehill Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East. Use this guide to compare Watford and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Watford
Arrival bus stations in Manchester
Which Manchester station do buses from Watford arrive at?
Buses from Watford to Manchester most often arrive at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Some services arrive at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Manchester arrival station.
Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeShudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Shudehill Interchange from Manchester city centre
Bus163, 118, 119, 18, 112, 114, 117, 81 · 3m · $2 · every ~69 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 2m · $2 · every ~23 min
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane EastMoss Ln E & Princess Rd, Manchester M15 6LD, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus101, 15, 103, 102 · 14m · $2 · every ~31 min
Uk023, Ukn23, Uk071 · 21m · $1 · every ~2 min
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East. ATMs are available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East: Accessible for wheelchairs.
Manchester, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min
Manchester, Airport bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
More options for your journey from Watford to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Watford
Most popular bus connections to Manchester
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