Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) bus with National Express

Fri 18 Sept
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG)

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept

Cheapest price on 18 Sept

£54

Average ticket price on 18 Sept

£68

Fastest journey on 18 Sept

7 h 20 m

Average journey duration on 18 Sept

7 h 34 m

Buses on 18 Sept

13

Distance

240 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) will cost around £68 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £54.

Fast coaches

To travel from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • National ExpressNX540 · NX035 · RRRA1
    15:358h40
    Manchester, Coach Station
    0:15Reading, Blagrave Street
    £541One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX032 · RRRA1
    15:358h40
    Manchester, Coach Station
    0:15Reading, Blagrave Street
    £551One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX025 · RRRA1
    13:108h07
    Manchester, Coach Station
    21:17Reading, Blagrave Street
    £561One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA1
    4:457h20
    Manchester, Coach Station
    12:05Reading, Blagrave Street
    £581One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA1
    5:507h36
    Manchester, Coach Station
    13:26Reading, Blagrave Street
    £661One-way
    2 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG)

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £59 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 32m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £59, while a flight costs an average of £301.

Distance: 240 km

Compare bus with

Coach
Most popular
Flight
Train
Driving

£59

Average Price

Cheapest

£301

Average Price

£111

Average Price

£60

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 51m

Average total duration

6h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 45m

Average total duration

1h 45m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

3h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 30m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) is a coach with an average price of £59.

This is compared to other travel options from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG):

A coach is £53 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) costing on average £111.

A coach is £242 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) costing on average £301.

The fastest way to travel from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 45m.

Other travel options to Reading station (RDG) take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 2m.

Coach takes on average 6h 21m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) and Reading station (RDG) including taking a train, coach and flight.
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 £59 compared to roughly £60 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £2. The journey takes 6h 21m versus 3h 30m 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.

Live departures

Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) coaches for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA15:45 Manchester, Coach Station
7h41
13:26 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA17:25 Manchester, Coach Station
8h03
15:28 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA19:20 Manchester, Coach Station
7h29
16:49 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX121 · NX210 · RRRA111:10 Manchester, Coach Station
7h36
18:46 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX540 · NX032 · RRRA111:30 Manchester, Coach Station
8h32
20:02 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX540 · NX035 · RRRA111:30 Manchester, Coach Station
8h32
20:02 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA112:25 Manchester, Coach Station
8h22
20:47 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX121 · NX210 · RRRA114:15 Manchester, Coach Station
8h01
22:16 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX540 · NX025 · RRRA114:40 Manchester, Coach Station
8h06
22:46 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX120 · NX210 · RRRA121:30 Manchester, Coach Station
7h41
5:11 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX424 · NX210 · RRRA123:55 Manchester, Coach Station
7h52
7:47 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
Friday 18 September
National ExpressNX421 · NX210 · RRRA12:45 Manchester, Coach Station
8h00
10:45 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes
National ExpressNX541 · NX210 · RRRA14:45 Manchester, Coach Station
7h20
12:05 Reading, Blagrave Street2 changes

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) 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
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept

Why should you book Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) coaches with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG).

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 to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG).
  • 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 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG).

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG).
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG).

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) run on average 16 times per day, taking around 6h 21m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £22 by train.

The earliest coach runs at 04:15, the last at 20:30. The fastest coach covers the 240 km distance in 4h 55m.

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
240 km
Average bus duration
6h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
£24
Buses per day
16
Fastest bus
4h 55m
First bus
4:15
Last bus
20:30
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sept
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
21 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
Train from £22

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG)You can travel by bus between Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) with National Express, FlixBus 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 FlixBus Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£24
FlixBus frequency
4 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.
Learn more about FlixBus

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
5h 6m
Cheapest National Express Price
£43
National Express frequency
16 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.
Learn more about National Express

FAQs: Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) 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 station (RDG), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) can start from as little as £24 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) is £59; 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 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) is 4h 55m to travel the 240 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 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) leaves at 4:15. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) leaves at 20:30.
There are 16 coaches a day from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG), you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Reading station (RDG). You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) and Reading station (RDG) and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Reading station (RDG) from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) and Reading station (RDG) including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG):
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) depends on the coach companies:
  • 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 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG).
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG):
  • 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 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG):
  • 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 Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG). The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) to Reading station (RDG) with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

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