Cambridge to Manchester bus with National Express

Mon 01 Jun
+ Add return
National Express
FlixBus
Megabus
Stagecoach East
Alsa
2,000+ travel companies
National Express
FlixBus
Megabus
Stagecoach East
Alsa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest coaches from Cambridge to Manchester

Showing times and prices for 01 Jun

Cheapest price

£17

Average price

£36

Fastest journey

5 h 45 m

Average duration

7 h 22 m

Buses per day

16

Distance

213 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cambridge to Manchester will cost around £36 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £17.

Fast coaches

To travel from Cambridge to Manchester you need to make at least one change.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    17:0510h25
    Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    3:30Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    £171One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    16:257h15
    Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    23:40Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    £171One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    13:108h20
    Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    21:30Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    £181One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    2:259h25
    Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    11:50Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    £181One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    5:358h15
    Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    13:50Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    £181One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Cambridge to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 12m. 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 £13, and a flight costs an average of £54.

Distance: 213 km

Compare bus with

Coach
Most popular
Train
Flight

£25

Average Price

Cheapest

£66

Average Price

£150

Average Price

5h 25m

Average total duration

4h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

4h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 12m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Cambridge to Manchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Manchester coaches for today, Sunday 31 May. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National ExpressNX777 · NX421
Delayed
21:01 1:50Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
5h45
7:35 Manchester, Coach Station
1 change
National ExpressNX777 · NX121
Delayed
21:01 9:50Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
6h50
16:03 16:03Manchester, Coach Station
1 change
National ExpressNX777 · NXA8 · NX424
Delayed
21:01 18:55Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
11h10
6:05 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
National ExpressNX777 · NXA8 · NX424
Delayed
21:01 18:55Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
11h10
6:05 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
National ExpressNX777 · NXA8 · NX421
Delayed
21:01 21:40Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
9h55
7:35 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
National ExpressNX777 · NXA8 · NX421
Delayed
21:01 21:40Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
9h55
7:35 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
Monday 1 June
National ExpressNX777 · NX4211:50 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
5h45
7:35 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus2:25 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
9h25
11:50 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus5:35 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
8h15
13:50 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 change
National ExpressNX727 · NX737 · NX540
On time
5:45 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
8h05
13:50 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
National ExpressNX777 · NX1219:50 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
7h30
17:20 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX727 · NX737 · NX540
On time
12:15 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
8h55
21:10 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus13:10 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
8h20
21:30 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 change
National ExpressNX727 · NXA8 · NX540
On time
13:55 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
9h30
23:25 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
National ExpressNX727 · NXA8 · NX540
On time
13:55 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
9h30
23:25 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
National ExpressNX728 · NXA8 · NX541
On time
16:00 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
9h40
1:40 Manchester, Coach Station
2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus16:25 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
7h15
23:40 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus17:05 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
10h25
3:30 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1 change
National ExpressNX777 · NXA8 · NX42419:15 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
10h50
6:05 Manchester, Coach Station2 changes
National ExpressNX777 · NXA8 · NX42419:15 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
10h50
6:05 Manchester, Coach Station2 changes

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Manchester 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.

Mon
01 Jun
Tue
02 Jun
Wed
03 Jun
Thu
04 Jun
Fri
05 Jun
Sat
06 Jun
Sun
07 Jun
Mon
08 Jun
Tue
09 Jun
Wed
10 Jun
Thu
11 Jun
Fri
12 Jun
Sat
13 Jun
Sun
14 Jun

Why should you book Cambridge to Manchester coaches with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus, Megabus, Stagecoach East and more offer coaches services from Cambridge to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Megabus or Stagecoach East to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Megabus or Stagecoach East to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cambridge to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cambridge to Manchester run on average 13 times per day, taking around 4h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.

The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 213 km distance in 6h 35m.

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
Distance
213 km
Average bus duration
4h 55m
Cheapest ticket price
£13
Buses per day
13
Fastest bus
6h 35m
First bus
0:05
Last bus
23:55
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
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

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus, Stagecoach East from Cambridge to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Cambridge to Manchester with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus, Stagecoach East for as low as £13. 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
7h 15m
Cheapest Price
£13
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
6h 35m
Cheapest Price
£27
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 55m
Cheapest Price
£23
Megabus frequency
1 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.

Stagecoach East

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 50m
Cheapest Price
£37
Stagecoach East frequency
12 a day

Buses from Cambridge to Manchester.

National Express operates direct and indirect daily buses from Cambridge to Manchester. There are two direct services, leaving Cambridge early morning and late morning. The indirect connections include three morning departures and an afternoon service. These journeys require a change at either Milton Keynes Coachway or Birmingham Coach Station. The fastest connection is the mid-morning departure via Milton Keynes, taking just over six hours to reach Manchester. Buses from Cambridge to Manchester depart from Parkside, on the southern side of central Cambridge, arriving at Manchester Coach Station, on the eastern edge of the city centre.

FAQs: Cambridge to Manchester coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge to Manchester 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 Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Cambridge to Manchester can start from as little as £13 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Cambridge to Manchester is £25; 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 coach from Cambridge to Manchester is 6h 35m to travel the 213 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Cambridge to Manchester leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Cambridge to Manchester leaves at 23:55.
There are 13 coaches a day from Cambridge to Manchester which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus, Stagecoach East. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Cambridge to Manchester, you can count on National Express, FlixBus, Megabus, Stagecoach East for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Cambridge and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Manchester from Cambridge is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Cambridge to Manchester is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cambridge and Manchester including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Cambridge to Manchester:
  • 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 coach from Cambridge to Manchester for coach company National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Cambridge to Manchester depends on the coach 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 coach with coach 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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Cambridge to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Cambridge to Manchester:
  • 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 coach ticket from Cambridge to Manchester:
  • 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 coach from Cambridge to Manchester. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Cambridge to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Cambridge to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Cambridge to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cambridge and Manchester

Cambridge
Manchester
The major coach station for departures in Cambridge is Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) for your trip from Cambridge to Manchester.
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
information
HomeCoachesCoach tickets to Manchester Cambridge to Manchester bus

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone