- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
Cheapest price
£10
Average price
£10
Fastest journey
35 m
Average duration
35 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
34 km
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Lancaster to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lancaster to Preston will cost around £10 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £10.
Of the 1 buses that leave Lancaster for Preston every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct buses cover the 34 km distance in an average of 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 35 m .
The slowest buses will take 35 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.
NX181
NX181Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lancaster to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £2. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £2, and a coach costs an average of £9.
Distance: 34 km
| Coach | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
£9 Average Price | £8 Average Price Cheapest |
1h 13m Average total duration 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 48m Average total duration Fastest 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The table below shows live departures for Lancaster to Preston coaches for tomorrow, Friday 14 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NX181 | 2:45 Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) | 0h35 | 3:20 Preston, Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare coach and train 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 Lancaster to Preston run on average 2 times per day, taking around 43m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £9 but you can travel from only £2 by train.
There are 2 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 34 km distance in 35m.
Distance 34 km |
Average bus duration 43m |
Cheapest ticket price £9 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 35m |
First bus 1:25 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Preston Bus Station -> Preston Railway Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lancaster to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Lancaster to Preston buses use the Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Lancaster and Preston bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) is 2 km from Lancaster city centre. Public transport options include:
Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several cafes and eateries around the station.
Wi-Fi is available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street). ATMs are available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street).
Ticket office support is available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street).
Available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street): Wheelchair-accessible platform and pathways.
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need