- Recommended
Darwen Heritage Centre
Volunteer-run local museum with displays on Darwen’s industry, transport and community life. A useful introduction to the town’s past.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester to Darwen
Showing times and prices for 06 Aug
Cheapest price
£3
Average price
£3
Fastest journey
55 m
Average duration
55 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
28 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Manchester to Darwen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Darwen will cost around £3 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £3.
Fast coaches
Of the 1 buses that leave Manchester for Darwen 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 28 km distance in an average of 55 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 55 m .
The slowest buses will take 55 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.
NX54019:400h55Manchester, Coach Station20:35Darwen, Town Centre£31One-way0 changes
- NX54019:400h55Manchester, Coach Station20:35Darwen, Town Centre£31One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Manchester to Darwen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Darwen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £3. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 42m. 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 coach costs an average of £3, and a train costs an average of £2.
Distance: 28 km
Compare bus with
| Coach | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
£3 Average Price Cheapest | £5 Average Price |
1h 26m Average total duration 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 12m Average total duration Fastest 42m 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.
Live departures
Manchester to Darwen bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Darwen coaches for tomorrow, Thursday 6 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX540 | 19:40 Manchester, Coach Station | 0h55 | 20:35 Darwen, Town Centre | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Darwen by coach or train
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.
Thu
06 Aug
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug
08 Aug
Sun
09 Aug
09 Aug
Mon
10 Aug
10 Aug
Tue
11 Aug
11 Aug
Wed
12 Aug
12 Aug
Why should you book Manchester to Darwen coaches with Omio?
National Express as well as Bee Network offer coaches services from Manchester to Darwen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Darwen.
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 Bee Network to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Darwen.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Darwen.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Darwen.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Darwen
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Darwen run on average 2 times per day, taking around 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £3 but you can travel from only £2 by train.
There are 2 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:24, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 28 km distance in 50m.
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 £2
Distance 28 km |
Average bus duration 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £3 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 50m |
First bus 0:24 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 5 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 £2
Bus providers: National Express, Bee Network from Manchester to DarwenYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Darwen with National Express, Bee Network for as low as £2. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
50m
Cheapest Price
£3
National Express frequency
1 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.
Bee Network
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 49m
Bee Network frequency
15 a day
Complete guide to Darwen
Things to do in Darwen
Discover the best of Darwen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Darwen trip today.
- Recommended
Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery
Main museum for Blackburn with Darwen, showing art, archaeology and local history collections. A strong nearby choice for visitors based in Darwen.
- Recommended
Haworth Art Gallery
Heritage venue with museum displays, period interiors and cultural events in nearby Great Harwood. Offers a broader local history visit from Darwen.
- Must visit
Sunnyhurst Woods and Reservoir
Reservoir and moorland area with scenic paths and frequent routes to Darwen Tower. A classic local spot for views, fresh air and longer walks.
- Recommended
Bold Venture Park
Large country park with reservoirs, woodland and marked trails. Popular for family walks, birdwatching and easy access to open countryside.
- Recommended
Jubilee Tower Valley
Wooded valley on Darwen Moor with waterfalls, streamside paths and dramatic gritstone scenery. Especially rewarding for walkers heading uphill to the tower.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A hearty Lancashire hotpot of lamb or mutton, onions and potatoes, slowly baked. It is a staple across Lancashire and deeply tied to the area’s mill-town cooking.
Blackburn Beefy Smack
Thinly sliced roast beef on a soft muffin or barm, often with mustard or gravy. A classic Lancashire comfort food found in markets and old-fashioned cafés.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
A strong regional crumbly cheese traditionally made in Lancashire. It is one of the county’s best-known foods and often served with pies, oatcakes or pickles.
No.39 Market Street
Well-known local café and brunch spot with coffee, breakfasts and light lunches. Friendly atmosphere and a reliable stop in the town centre.
The Sunbird Kitchen & Bar
Popular grill and steak venue serving burgers, steaks and hearty mains in a modern casual setting suited to groups and families.
Akbar's Darwen
Traditional Indian restaurant in Darwen known for classic curries and a relaxed local atmosphere. Good choice for an established casual meal out.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Darwen is usually cheaper than London, with lower meal and stay costs; local bus and rail fares are manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
FAQs: Manchester to Darwen coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Darwen 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 Darwen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Darwen can start from as little as £3 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Darwen is £3; 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 Darwen is 50m to travel the 28 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 Darwen leaves at 0:24. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester to Darwen leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 2 direct coaches a day from Manchester to Darwen with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Darwen, you can count on National Express, Bee Network for the best way to get you to Darwen. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester and Darwen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Manchester , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Broadway / Trevor Dr (New Moston) . When arriving in Darwen , you can end your route in coach stations like Darwen, Town Centre, Blackburn, Penny Street, Accrington, Bus Station.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Manchester, Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Darwen, Town Centre, located 0 away from the city centre.
A day trip to Darwen from Manchester is worth doing with a journey time of 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Manchester to Darwen is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Darwen including taking a coach and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester to Darwen:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Darwen for coach company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester to Darwen 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company National Express.
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 Darwen.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Darwen:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Darwen:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Manchester to Darwen.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Manchester to Darwen with the following coach company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Darwen with the following coach company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester to Darwen with the following coach company: National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Darwen
Most Manchester to Darwen buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Darwen, Town Centre station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Darwen 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 Darwen
Which Manchester station do buses to Darwen leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Darwen 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 Kingdom
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, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · £5 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · £2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · £2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · £4 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · £4 · every ~8 min
Manchester, Airport bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Which Darwen station do buses from Manchester arrive at?
Buses from Manchester to Darwen most often arrive at Darwen, Town Centre. Some services arrive at Blackburn, Penny Street, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Darwen arrival station.
Darwen, Town CentreDarwen, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Darwen, Town Centre from Darwen city centre
TRUE
Darwen, Town Centre bus station facilities and services
Darwen, Town Centre 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 Darwen, Town Centre. ATMs are available at Darwen, Town Centre.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Darwen, Town Centre.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Darwen, Town Centre: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Darwen, Town Centre: Wheelchair accessible area for buses.
Most popular bus connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Darwen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Darwen and Manchester
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.
