- Must visit
The Beatles Story
Acclaimed branch of the Imperial War Museums covering modern conflict, personal stories, and the impact of war in a dramatic dock building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Liverpool
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$21
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$21
Fastest journey on Sep 08
3 h
Average journey duration on Sep 08
4 h 20 m
Buses on Sep 08
4
Distance
43 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Liverpool is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Liverpool will cost around $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Preston to Liverpool without transferring at least once.
NX181 · NX4213:20 AM5h15Preston, Bus Station8:35 AMLiverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place$211One-way1 transfer- NX424 · NX54110:35 PM3h00Preston, Bus Station1:35 AMLiverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place$211One-way1 transfer
- NX181 · NX1703:20 AM5h50Preston, Bus Station9:10 AMLiverpool, University$221One-way1 transfer
- NX424 · NX17010:35 PM3h15Preston, Bus Station1:50 AMLiverpool, University$221One-way1 transfer
- NX424 · NX54110:35 PM3h00Preston, Bus Station1:35 AMLiverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place$211One-way1 transfer
- NX424 · NX17010:35 PM3h15Preston, Bus Station1:50 AMLiverpool, University$221One-way1 transfer
- NX181 · NX4213:20 AM5h15Preston, Bus Station8:35 AMLiverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place$211One-way1 transfer
- NX181 · NX1703:20 AM5h50Preston, Bus Station9:10 AMLiverpool, University$221One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston to Liverpool
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Liverpool among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $19 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 27m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $19, while a bus costs an average of $22.
Distance: 26 miles (43 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$22 Average price | $19 Average price Cheapest | $11 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 43m Average total duration 2h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 27m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Liverpool is a train with an average price of $19.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Liverpool:
A train is $3 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Preston to Liverpool costing on average $22.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Liverpool is by train with an average journey time of 57m.
Other travel options to Liverpool take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Liverpool including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Liverpool among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $22 compared to roughly $11 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-10.63. The journey takes 2h 13m versus 1h 14m 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.
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.
Preston to Liverpool Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20AM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $13 |
Live departures
Preston to Liverpool bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Liverpool buses for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX424 · NX170 | 10:35 PM Preston, Bus Station | 3h15 | 1:50 AM Liverpool, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX424 · NX541 | 10:35 PM Preston, Bus Station | 3h00 | 1:35 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
| NX181 · NX421 | 3:20 AM Preston, Bus Station | 5h15 | 8:35 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 1 transfer | |
| NX181 · NX170 | 3:20 AM Preston, Bus Station | 5h50 | 9:10 AM Liverpool, University | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Liverpool by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
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Sep 09
Sep 09
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Sep 11
Sep 11
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Sep 14
Why should you book Preston to Liverpool buses with Omio?
Megabus as well as National Express, FlixBus, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire and more offer buses services from Preston to Liverpool.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Liverpool.
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, FlixBus or Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Liverpool.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Liverpool.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express, FlixBus or Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Liverpool.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Liverpool.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Liverpool
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Liverpool run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 but you can travel from only $5 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 01:55, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 26 miles (43 km) distance in 1h 40m.
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 $5
Distance 26 miles (43 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 1h 40m |
First bus 1:55 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $5
Bus providers: National Express from Preston to LiverpoolYou can travel by bus between Preston to Liverpool with National Express for as low as $5. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 National Express Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest National Express Price
$19
National Express frequency
3 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.
Complete guide to Liverpool
Things to do in Liverpool
Discover the best of Liverpool — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Liverpool trip today.
- Must visit
World Museum
Large free museum covering archaeology, natural history, world cultures, and planetarium shows. Excellent for broad insight into the region.
- Must visit
Museum of Liverpool
Modern museum telling Liverpool’s story from port city to pop culture capital, with social history, transport, and riverfront galleries.
- Must visit
Pier Head
Scenic riverside promenade with Mersey views, public art, and access to major museums. Ideal for a relaxed walk along the waterfront.
- Recommended
Bold Street
Historic commercial street with restored warehouses, boutiques, and nightlife. Great for architecture, independent shops, and city atmosphere.
- Recommended
Ropewalks
Creative district known for independent venues, street art, and converted warehouses. A good area to explore Liverpool’s contemporary culture.
Scouse
A hearty beef and vegetable stew long linked with Liverpool's seafaring history. It is the city's signature comfort food and gave Liverpudlians the nickname 'Scousers'.
Wet Nelly
A baked potato filled with corned beef, a classic Merseyside chip shop and pub snack. It is a simple local favourite tied to everyday working-class food culture.
- Vegetarian
Liverpool Tart
A dense spiced fruit loaf or cake served sliced with butter. Popular across Merseyside, it is a traditional teatime bake with a long local following.
The Art School
Elegant fine dining restaurant by Chef Paul Askew, known for seasonal British tasting menus and polished service in a refined city-centre setting.
Manifest
Stylish modern restaurant in the Baltic Triangle serving small plates and seasonal British cooking in a relaxed but ambitious setting.
The Philharmonic Dining Rooms
Historic dining room in the Philharmonic pub, celebrated for classic British dishes and a grand traditional atmosphere with strong local character.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while transit and casual meals are fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes and pubs: no tip expected, small change appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from Preston to Liverpool
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Liverpool 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 Liverpool, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Preston to Liverpool can start from as little as $19 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Liverpool is $22 ; 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 Preston to Liverpool is 1h 40m to travel the 26 miles (43 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 Preston to Liverpool leaves at 1:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Liverpool leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Preston to Liverpool which require at least one change with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Preston to Liverpool, you can count on Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire for the best way to get you to Liverpool. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Preston and Liverpool and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Preston , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Preston, Bus Station . When arriving in Liverpool , you can end your journey in bus stations like Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place, Liverpool, University, Liverpool, Botanic Park, Liverpool, Edge Lane Drive, Liverpool, Kwik Fit Old Swan .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Preston, Bus Station, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place, located 1 away from the city centre.
A day trip to Liverpool from Preston is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Preston to Liverpool is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Liverpool including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston to Liverpool:
- 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 Preston to Liverpool for bus company Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Liverpool are:
- The Beatles Story, an immersive museum dedicated to the history and impact of The Beatles
- Royal Albert Dock, a historic waterfront complex featuring museums, shops, and restaurants
- Liverpool Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Britain known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views
- Anfield Stadium, the iconic home of Liverpool FC offering stadium tours and a museum
- St George's Hall, a neoclassical building known for its grand architecture and cultural events.
The best things to do in Liverpool include:
- Explore the vibrant Baltic Triangle, a creative and digital district with street art, bars, and music venues
- Take a ferry across the Mersey River for scenic views of Liverpool's skyline
- Visit the Walker Art Gallery, home to one of the largest art collections in England outside London
- Enjoy a performance at the Liverpool Empire Theatre, hosting a variety of shows and musicals
- Discover the history of the city at the Museum of Liverpool, offering insights into the city's rich heritage.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston to Liverpool 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 Preston to Liverpool.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston to Liverpool:
- 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 Preston to Liverpool:
- 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 Preston to Liverpool. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Preston to Liverpool with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Liverpool with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Liverpool with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Preston nor Liverpool are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Liverpool among Omio's users.
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 Liverpool, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and around popular attractions such as the Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE shopping center. Scams involving overcharging in taxis can occur, so it's advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-book rides. Additionally, travelers should be aware of nightlife-related safety, avoiding unlicensed venues and staying in well-lit, populated areas at night.
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 Preston to Liverpool
Most Preston to Liverpool buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place station pair, with some services arriving at Liverpool, University. Use this guide to compare Preston and Liverpool bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Preston
Arrival bus stations in Liverpool
Which Preston station do buses to Liverpool leave from?
Buses from Preston to Liverpool leave from Preston, Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre at Preston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · $11 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Which Liverpool station do buses from Preston arrive at?
Buses from Preston to Liverpool most often arrive at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place. Some services arrive at Liverpool, University, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Liverpool arrival station.
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning PlaceCanning Place, Liverpool L1 8JX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10A · 11m · $5 · every ~25 min
City Explorer 101 · 41m · every ~3 min
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café in the Station (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place: Elevators, ramps.
Liverpool, UniversityUniversity of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, University from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, University is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10A · 4m · $5 · every ~11 min
Liverpool, University bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, University has practical services for this route, including Taxis.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, University: Taxis.
Liverpool, Botanic ParkWavertree Botanic Garden and Park, Edge Ln, Innovation Blvd, Liverpool L7 9PL, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, Botanic Park from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, Botanic Park is 2 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus79 · 13m · $2 · every ~21 min
Liverpool, Botanic Park bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, Botanic Park 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 Liverpool, Botanic Park. ATMs are available at Liverpool, Botanic Park.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool, Botanic Park.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, Botanic Park: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool, Botanic Park: Station is accessible for those with reduced mobility.
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Liverpool
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Liverpool and Preston
Most popular bus connections to Liverpool
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