Manchester to Carlisle bus with National Express

Fri 21 Nov
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester to Carlisle

Showing times and prices for 22 Nov

Cheapest price

£31

Average price

£32

Fastest journey

3 h

Average duration

5 h 18 m

Buses per day

3

Distance

164 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Carlisle will cost around £32 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £31.

Fast coaches

Of the 3 buses that leave Manchester for Carlisle every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct buses cover the 164 km distance in an average of 5 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h .

The slowest buses will take 9 h 40 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 ExpressNX181
01:353h15
Manchester, Coach Station
04:50Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
£311One-way
0 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
16:109h40
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
01:50Carlisle
£311One-way
1 change
National ExpressNX590
15:103h00
Manchester, Coach Station
18:10Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
£321One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Manchester to Carlisle

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 55m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £9, and a train costs an average of £12.

Distance: 164 km

Compare bus with

Coach
Most popular
Train

£28

Average Price

Cheapest

£40

Average Price

3h 29m

Average total duration

2h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

TransPennine Express

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Manchester to Carlisle bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Carlisle coaches for today, Friday 21 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at 01:29
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
megb12:50 Manchester
3h25
16:15 Carlisle0 changesdirect
national_express14:25 Manchester
3h15
17:40 Carlisle0 changesdirect
meinfernbus_flixbus15:10 Manchester
9h40
00:50 Carlisle0 changesdirect
Saturday 22 November
national_express00:35 Manchester
3h15
03:50 Carlisle0 changesdirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Carlisle by train or coach

Compare train and coach 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.

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

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Carlisle

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Carlisle run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.

There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:45, the last at 23:50. The fastest coach covers the 164 km distance in 3h 0m.

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
164 km
Average bus duration
2h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
£9
Buses per day
3
Direct buses
3
Fastest bus
3h 0m
First bus
00:45
Last bus
23:50
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 CarlisleYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Carlisle with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for as low as £9. 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.
Learn more about FlixBus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 40m
Cheapest Price
£23
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.
Learn more about National Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
£14
National Express frequency
2 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
3h 25m
Cheapest Price
£9
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.

FAQs: Manchester to Carlisle coach

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

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Carlisle can start from as little as £5 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Carlisle is £19; 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 Carlisle is 2 h 15 min   to travel the 101 mile long journey, with around there are 3 coaches per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first coach from Manchester to Carlisle leaves at 04: 00. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last coach from Manchester to Carlisle leaves at 15: 30.
Yes, there are 3 direct coaches a day from Manchester to Carlisle with National Express, FlixBus or Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Carlisle, you can count on National Express, FlixBus or Megabus for the best way to get you to Carlisle. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service to Carlisle from Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.

When departing from Manchester, you have various coach station options to start your trip from including Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange and Manchester, Airport. When arriving in Carlisle, you can end your journey in coach stations like Carlisle, Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) and Carlisle, Parkhouse Road (Argos).

Passengers board the coach most frequently from Manchester, Coach Station, which is located around 0.9 miles (1.5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Carlisle, located 0.8 miles (1.3 km) away from the city centre.

A trip to Carlisle from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2 h 15 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Manchester to Carlisle is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Manchester to Carlisle including taking a train or coach.
No, the coach from Manchester to Carlisle has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Carlisle.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Manchester to Carlisle.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Manchester to Carlisle, 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 Carlisle.
    No, luggage for the coach from Manchester to Carlisle needs to be booked in addition.
    No, there are no additional luggage options for the coach from Manchester to Carlisle.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Manchester to Carlisle.
    No, there are no USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Carlisle.
    No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Manchester to Carlisle.

    popular bus stations

    Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Carlisle

    Manchester
    Carlisle
    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 Carlisle.
    Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    address
    Address
    Shudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom
    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
    Manchester, Coach StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    address
    Address
    Chorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
    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
    Manchester, AirportWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    ShowerShower
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    address
    Address
    Manchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
    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

    More options for your journey from Manchester to Carlisle

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

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