Manchester to Reading bus with Megabus

Fri 21 Nov
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National Express
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester to Reading

Showing times and prices for 21 Nov

Cheapest price

£45

Average price

£54

Fastest journey

7 h 26 m

Average duration

8 h 15 m

Buses per day

4

Distance

241 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Reading will cost around £54 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £45.

Fast coaches

Of the 4 buses that leave Manchester for Reading every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct buses cover the 241 km distance in an average of 8 h 15 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 26 m .

The slowest buses will take 8 h 46 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.

National Express
12:308h46
Manchester
21:16Reading
£451One-way
0 changes
National Express
11:308h17
Manchester
19:47Reading
£541One-way
0 changes
National Express
14:458h30
Manchester
23:15Reading
£591One-way
0 changes
National Express
20:457h26
Manchester
04:11Reading
£601One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Manchester to Reading

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £41. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 0m. 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 coach costs an average of £41, and a flight costs an average of £63.

Distance: 241 km

Compare bus with

Most popular
Coach
Train
Flight

£57

Average Price

Cheapest

£84

Average Price

£165

Average Price

6h 21m

Average total duration

5h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 36m

Average total duration

3h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 0m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.7 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

Megabus

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Manchester to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Reading coaches for today, Thursday 20 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at 10:40
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
national_express14:45 Manchester
8h30
23:15 Reading0 changesdirect
national_express20:45 Manchester
7h26
04:11 Reading0 changesdirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Reading by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Fri
21 Nov
Sat
22 Nov
Sun
23 Nov
Mon
24 Nov
Tue
25 Nov
Wed
26 Nov
Thu
27 Nov

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Reading run on average 15 times per day, taking around 5h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £41 but you can travel from only £22 by train.

There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 241 km distance in 7h 17m.

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 £22
Distance
241 km
Average bus duration
5h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
£41
Buses per day
15
Direct buses
1
Fastest bus
7h 17m
First bus
00:05
Last bus
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 £22

Bus providers: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express from Manchester to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Reading with Megabus, FlixBus, National Express for as low as £22. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 55m
Cheapest Price
£41
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

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 Duration
7h 26m
Cheapest Price
£45
National Express frequency
15 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.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
£22
Megabus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
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).
Additional luggage
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.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

FAQs: Manchester to Reading coach

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

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Reading can start from as little as £37 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Reading is £57; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The coach time from Manchester to Reading is on average 4 h 45 min   for the 149 mile long journey, but the time it takes to go from Manchester to Reading by coach can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first coach from Manchester to Reading leaves at 05: 15. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last coach from Manchester to Reading leaves at 23: 40.
There are 12 coaches a day from Manchester to Reading which require at least one change with Megabus, FlixBus or National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
Take the Manchester to Reading coach with Megabus, FlixBus or National Express. However, it's always good to check out all possible coach companies for the route between Manchester and Reading as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.

Passengers board the coach most frequently from Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, which is located around 0.5 miles (833 m) away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Reading, Station North Interchange (Stop NE), located 0.5 miles (829 m) away from the city centre.

A trip to Reading from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 45 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Manchester to Reading by coach is March.
You have options as you can travel to Reading from Manchester 3 different ways: train, coach or flight.
No, the coach from Manchester to Reading has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Reading.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Manchester to Reading.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Manchester to Reading, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the coach from Manchester to Reading.
    No, luggage for the coach from Manchester to Reading needs to be booked in addition.
    No, there are no additional luggage options for the coach from Manchester to Reading.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Manchester to Reading.
    No, there are no USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Reading.
    No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Manchester to Reading.

    popular bus stations

    Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Reading

    Manchester
    Reading
    The major coach station for departures in Manchester is Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange for your trip from Manchester to Reading.
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 05:00-23:30
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Shudehill
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the interchange.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transport options for Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    • Bus: 42, 43, 135 Tram: Metrolink
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 06:00-22:00
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Chorlton Street
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Café at the Station (in the station)
    • Fast Food Express (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the main entrance.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Ramps, assistance
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transport options for Manchester, Coach Station
    • Bus: 50, 192, 201, 203, 205, 219, 255, 256 Train: Manchester Piccadilly Metro: Piccadilly Gardens
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    ShowerShower
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 00:00-23:59
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    2 km
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Terminal Road North
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Burger King (in the station)
    • Giraffe (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the terminal, with several companies offering services.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps, assistance
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transport options for Manchester, Airport
    • Bus: 43, 103 Train: Manchester Airport
    Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
    information

    More options for your journey from Manchester to Reading

    Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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