Bedford to Manchester train with East Midlands Railway

Thu, May 07
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East Midlands Railway
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
east_midlands_trains
2,000+ travel companies
East Midlands Railway
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
east_midlands_trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bedford to Manchester

Showing times and prices for May 07

Cheapest price

$77

Average price

$90

Fastest journey

3 h 31 m

Average duration

3 h 35 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

191 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bedford to Manchester will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Bedford for Manchester on Thu, May 07, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 191 km distance in an average of 3 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 31 m .

On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 3 h 38 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.

  • East Midlands Railway
    8:30 AM3h35
    Bedford
    12:05 PMManchester
    $771One-way
    0 transfers
  • East Midlands Railway
    9:01 AM3h31
    Bedford
    12:32 PMManchester
    $961One-way
    0 transfers
  • East Midlands Railway
    4:27 PM3h38
    Bedford
    8:05 PMManchester
    $971One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Bedford to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bedford to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 13m. 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 $47, and a flight costs an average of $102.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$104

Average price

$50

Average price

Cheapest

$248

Average price

$70

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 13m

Average total duration

2h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

3h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 13m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 11m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.6 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

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 Bedford to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $50 (€40).

This is compared to other travel options from Bedford to Manchester:

A bus is $54 (€43) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bedford to Manchester costing on average $104 (€83).

A bus is $198 (€158) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bedford to Manchester costing on average $248 (€198).

The fastest way to travel from Bedford to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 13m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 43m.

Bus takes on average 3h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bedford and Manchester including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bedford to Manchester among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 28m sooner (2h 43m by train vs 3h 11m by car). Tickets start at around $104 (€83) compared to roughly $70 (€56) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Bedford to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
east_midlands_railway8:30 AM Bedford
3h35
12:05 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
east_midlands_railway9:01 AM Bedford
3h31
12:32 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
east_midlands_railway4:27 PM Bedford
3h38
8:05 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bedford to Manchester by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, 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.

Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13

Why should you book Bedford to Manchester trains with Omio?

East Midlands Railway as well as Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, east_midlands_trains and more offer trains services from Bedford to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Bedford 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 East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bedford to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bedford to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bedford to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bedford to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $71 (€57) but you can travel from only $47 (€37) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:13, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 3h 8m.

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
Bus from $47 (€37)
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
Average train duration
2h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
$71 (€57)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 8m
First train
4:13 AM
Last train
10:15 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 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
Bus from $47 (€37)

Train companies: East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, east_midlands_trains from Bedford to Manchester trainsEast Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Bedford and Manchester from $47 (€37). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

East Midlands Railway

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€57)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$119 (€95)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Transpennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Transpennine Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Northern Rail

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Northern Rail frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

east_midlands_trains

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest Price
$103 (€82)
east_midlands_trains frequency
12 a day

FAQs: Trains from Bedford to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford to Manchester by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bedford to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $71 (€57), while the average price is around $104 (€83).
The train from Bedford to Manchester takes 3h 8m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Bedford to Manchester leaves at 4:13 AM.
The distance by train from Bedford to Manchester is 118 miles (191 km).
The last train from Bedford to Manchester leaves at 10:15 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bedford to Manchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bedford to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bedford to Manchester.
The train station in Bedford that goes to Manchester is Bedford station (BDM), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Bedford to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€37).
The train journey from Bedford to Manchester offers varied scenery, including stretches of countryside, urban landscapes, and glimpses of the Peak District, providing a pleasant and diverse visual experience.
A day trip from Bedford to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 8m. There are 5 trains per day. The distance is 118 miles (191 km).
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Bedford to Manchester.
Since neither Bedford nor Manchester 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.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bedford to Manchester among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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 train stations

Popular train stations from Bedford to Manchester

Bedford
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Bedford is Bedford. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bedford for your trip from Bedford to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 21:00 Saturday 05:45 - 21:00 Sunday 07:15 - 21:15
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Yes
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is adjacent to the taxi rank at the front of the station.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Available during staffing hours.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting areas are available
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Front right hand side and station front
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Bedford St Johns (Council Managed)
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Bedford St Johns
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from the Medbourne Road car park, by the path leading to the platform. Please check the direction of travel before boarding.

More options for your journey from Bedford to Manchester

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