Manchester to Cambridge bus with National Express

Sun 16 Aug
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester to Cambridge

Showing times and prices for 16 Aug

Cheapest price

£38

Average price

£59

Fastest journey

5 h 30 m

Average duration

5 h 58 m

Buses per day

15

Distance

213 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Cambridge will cost around £59 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £38.

Fast coaches

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

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    12:105h30
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    17:40Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    £381One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    4:506h30
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    11:20Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    £381One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    17:405h55
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    23:35Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    £471One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    13:306h50
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    20:20Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    £481One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    13:556h25
    Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
    20:20Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    £481One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Manchester to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £14. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. 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 £14, and a flight costs an average of £60.

Distance: 213 km

Compare bus with

Coach
Most popular
Train
Flight

£25

Average Price

Cheapest

£67

Average Price

£148

Average Price

5h 58m

Average total duration

5h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 1m

Average total duration

3h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

East Midlands Railway

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 Cambridge bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cambridge coaches for today, Saturday 15 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National ExpressNX424 · NXA8 · NX72823:55 Manchester, Coach Station
11h40
11:35 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)2 changes
National ExpressNX424 · NXA8 · NX72823:55 Manchester, Coach Station
11h40
11:35 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)2 changes
Sunday 16 August
National ExpressNX421 · NX737 · NX7282:45 Manchester, Coach Station
8h50
11:35 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:50 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h30
11:20 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 change
National ExpressNX540 · NX737 · NX7276:05 Manchester, Coach Station
9h20
15:25 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)2 changes
National ExpressNX540 · NX737 · NX7278:50 Manchester, Coach Station
8h05
16:55 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)2 changes
National ExpressNX541 · NX77711:15 Manchester, Coach Station
7h35
18:50 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus12:10 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
5h30
17:40 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus13:30 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h50
20:20 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus13:55 Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
6h25
20:20 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 change
National ExpressNX541 · NX77715:05 Manchester, Coach Station
6h30
21:35 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 change
National ExpressNX540 · NXA8 · NX72717:10 Manchester, Coach Station
8h35
1:45 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)2 changes
National ExpressNX540 · NXA8 · NX77717:10 Manchester, Coach Station
8h35
1:45 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus17:40 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
5h55
23:35 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus18:05 Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
5h30
23:35 Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 change

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Cambridge 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.

Sun
16 Aug
Mon
17 Aug
Tue
18 Aug
Wed
19 Aug
Thu
20 Aug
Fri
21 Aug
Sat
22 Aug

Why should you book Manchester to Cambridge coaches with Omio?

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

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 Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Cambridge.
  • 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 to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

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

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Cambridge run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £14 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 30m.

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
5h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
£14
Buses per day
13
Fastest bus
6h 30m
First bus
0:05
Last bus
23:55
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
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

Bus providers: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus from Manchester to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Cambridge with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for as low as £14. 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
6h 30m
Cheapest Price
£14
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 5m
Cheapest Price
£41
National Express frequency
12 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
£26
Megabus frequency
2 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.

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with classical sculptures, paintings, antiquities, and decorative arts. Strong choice for a broad first visit.

  • Recommended

Kettle's Yard

Contemporary art gallery in a former chapel, showing changing exhibitions by modern and international artists near the city centre.

  • Recommended

Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

Museum of Earth sciences with dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and minerals. Compact, family-friendly, and useful for a rainy day.

Pound sterling (£)

Cambridge is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels and dining are above average, but walking and buses help keep transport costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for fine dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips.

FAQs: Manchester to Cambridge coach

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

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Cambridge can start from as little as £14 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Cambridge 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 Manchester to Cambridge is 6h 30m 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 Manchester to Cambridge leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester to Cambridge leaves at 23:55.
There are 13 coaches a day from Manchester to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Cambridge, you can count on National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Cambridge from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Manchester to Cambridge is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Cambridge including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Cambridge for coach company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester to Cambridge:
  • 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.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester to Cambridge 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 Manchester to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Cambridge:
  • 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 Manchester to Cambridge:
  • 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 Manchester to Cambridge. 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 to Cambridge with the following coach company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Cambridge with the following coach company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester to Cambridge with the following coach company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Cambridge

Most Manchester to Cambridge buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Cambridge bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Manchester
Arrival bus stations in Cambridge

Which Manchester station do buses to Cambridge leave from?

Buses from Manchester to Cambridge leave from Manchester, Coach Station. The station is from Manchester city centre at Chorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre

Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · £2 · every ~231 min

Manchester, Coach Station bus station facilities and services

Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.

Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeShudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United KingdomWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester, Shudehill Interchange from Manchester city centre

Bus163, 118, 119, 18, 112, 114, 117, 81 · 3m · £2 · every ~69 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 2m · £2 · every ~23 min

Manchester, Shudehill Interchange bus station facilities and services

Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.

Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane EastMoss Ln E & Princess Rd, Manchester M15 6LD, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East from Manchester city centre

Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus101, 15, 103, 102 · 14m · £2 · every ~31 min
Uk023, Ukn23, Uk071 · 21m · £0.90 · every ~2 min

Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East bus station facilities and services

Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East. ATMs are available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East: Accessible for wheelchairs.

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