- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
The University of Cambridge’s flagship museum, known for major collections of art, antiquities, and manuscripts. A top cultural stop with free permanent galleries.
Cheapest price
$28
Average price
$64
Fastest journey
6 h 30 m
Average duration
7 h 18 m
Buses per day
13
Distance
213 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Cambridge will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Cambridge without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
NX541 · NX777
FlixBus · FlixBus
NX541 · NX777
NX541 · NX777
FlixBus · FlixBus
NX540 · NX737 · NX727Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Cambridge 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 10m. 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 $81.
Distance: 132 miles (213 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$34 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price | $201 Average price | $76 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 58m Average total duration 5h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 1m Average total duration 3h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - 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 Manchester to Cambridge:
A bus is $57 (€47) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Cambridge costing on average $91 (€75).
A bus is $167 (€137) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Cambridge costing on average $201 (€165).
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 31m.
Bus takes on average 5h 28m.
Tickets start at around $34 (€28) compared to roughly $76 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $42 (€34). The journey takes 5h 28m versus 3h 25m 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 FlixBus | Departure Time 12:20AM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40AM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:50AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 11h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 8h11 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $38 |
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cambridge buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NX421 · NX737 · NX728 | Delayed 6:40 AM 2:45 AMManchester, Coach Station | 8h50 | 11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
NX540 · NX737 · NX727 | On time 5:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h45 | 3:30 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
NX540 · NX737 · NX727 | On time 8:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h40 | 5:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
NX541 · NX777 | Delayed 1:25 PM 11:15 AMManchester, Coach Station | 7h55 | 8:35 PM 8:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
NX541 · NX777 | On time 2:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h10 | 9:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 8h25 | 11:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
NX424 · NXA8 · NX728 | 11:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 11h40 | 11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
NX424 · NXA8 · NX728 | 11:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 11h40 | 11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:59 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 8h11 | 8:10 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:20 AM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 7h50 | 8:10 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
NX421 · NX737 · NX728 | 2:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h50 | 11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:50 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 6h30 | 11:20 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Manchester to Cambridge run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€16) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 132 miles (213 km) distance in 6h 30m.
Distance 132 miles (213 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€16) |
Buses per day 13 |
Fastest bus 6h 30m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
The University of Cambridge’s flagship museum, known for major collections of art, antiquities, and manuscripts. A top cultural stop with free permanent galleries.
A renowned modern and contemporary art house museum with intimate displays and a distinctive domestic setting. One of Cambridge’s most characterful art venues.
University museum with important world archaeology and anthropology collections, including Pacific, African, and British material. Excellent for a deeper academic side of Cambridge.
The city’s most famous street, lined with historic college architecture and classic views of King’s College Chapel. Essential for first-time visitors.
A celebrated walking area with riverside paths and some of the city’s most iconic college views. Especially beautiful in spring and autumn.
The busy historic center of Cambridge, surrounded by major sights and a long-running market tradition. Good for atmosphere and people-watching.
A sticky spiced currant bun strongly associated with Cambridge through Fitzbillies, a long-standing local bakery and tea room.
Traditional local pork sausages, often served with mash or in breakfast plates, reflecting the county’s farming heritage.
A classic English Sunday roast commonly enjoyed in Cambridge pubs, with roasted beef, gravy, vegetables, and Yorkshire pudding.
A celebrated fine dining restaurant on the River Cam, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service.
A well-regarded independent restaurant serving seasonal modern British cuisine in an intimate, elegant townhouse setting.
A historic Cambridge pub famous for classic British food, ales, and its longstanding connection to the city’s academic history.
Costs are high by UK standards, especially for hotels and dining in the centre, though markets and pubs offer cheaper options.
Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service, though small change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) -> Cambridge Railway Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Manchester to Cambridge buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Cambridge bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need