Manchester to Leicester bus with National Express

Thu 08 Oct
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester to Leicester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct

Cheapest price on 08 Oct

£8

Average ticket price on 08 Oct

£19

Fastest journey on 08 Oct

3 h 35 m

Average journey duration on 08 Oct

3 h 39 m

Buses on 08 Oct

24

Distance

119 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Leicester will cost around £19 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £8.

Fast coaches

On Thu 08 Oct, we found 24 buses from Manchester to Leicester, including 3 direct services.

These direct buses cover the 119 km distance in an average of 3 h 39 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 35 m .

The slowest buses will take 3 h 45 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    21:303h35
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    1:05Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    £81One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    11:203h45
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    15:05Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    £81One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    8:103h40
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    11:50Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    £81One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    12:104h10
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    16:20Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
    £151One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    13:004h25
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    17:25Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
    £151One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Leicester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Leicester run on average 17 times per day, taking around 3h 42m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.

There are 2 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 119 km distance in 2h 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
Distance
119 km
Average bus duration
3h 42m
Cheapest ticket price
£6
Buses per day
17
Direct buses
2
Fastest bus
2h 50m
First bus
0:05
Last bus
23:55
Cheapest Month
Sept
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Thu
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

Live departures

Manchester to Leicester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Leicester coaches for today, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National ExpressNX120 · NX18019:00 Manchester, Coach Station
4h50
23:50 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX170 · NX24019:25 Manchester, Miles Platting
7h55
3:20 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX120 · NX77721:30 Manchester, Coach Station
5h00
2:30 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus21:30 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
3h35
1:05 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station0 changesdirect
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus21:30 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
5h10
2:40 Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)1 change
National ExpressNX424 · NX77723:55 Manchester, Coach Station
5h10
5:05 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
Thursday 8 October
National ExpressNX172 · NX1800:15 Manchester, Coach Station
5h05
5:20 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX421 · NX7772:45 Manchester, Coach Station
4h35
7:20 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX181 · NX1834:15 Manchester, Coach Station
4h35
8:50 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX541 · NX7775:45 Manchester, Coach Station
5h40
11:25 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX541 · NX1507:25 Manchester, Coach Station
5h30
12:55 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus8:10 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
3h50
12:00 Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus8:10 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
3h40
11:50 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station0 changesdirect
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus8:40 Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
4h50
13:30 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:20 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
3h40
14:00 Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)1 change
National ExpressNX121 · NX15111:10 Manchester, Coach Station
5h15
16:25 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus11:20 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
3h45
15:05 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station0 changesdirect
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus12:10 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
4h10
16:20 Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus12:20 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
4h05
16:25 Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus13:00 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
4h25
17:25 Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)1 change
National ExpressNX541 · NX15014:50 Manchester, Coach Station
4h35
19:25 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX170 · NX18315:25 Manchester, Coach Station
4h45
20:10 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX170 · NX18315:37 Manchester, Miles Platting
4h33
20:10 Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus15:50 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
3h35
19:25 Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)1 change

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Manchester to Leicester coaches with Omio?

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

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 to Leicester.
  • 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Leicester.

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 to Leicester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Leicester.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Manchester to LeicesterYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Leicester with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £6. 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
2h 50m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£6
FlixBus frequency
9 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.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest National Express Price
£11
National Express frequency
11 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.

Complete guide to Leicester

Things to do in Leicester

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

  • Must visit

King Richard III Visitor Centre

Modern museum telling the story of Richard III through archaeology, history and the king’s Leicester burial site.

  • Recommended

Leicester Museum & Art Gallery

Leicester’s main art and history museum, with dinosaur galleries, fine art and displays on the city’s people and past.

  • Recommended

Jewry Wall Museum

Museum beside Roman remains, exploring local archaeology from Roman Leicester to later city history in a compact setting.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK city. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£2.80-4 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, often just small change.

Best day trips from Leicester by bus

The most popular day trips by bus from Leicester are Birmingham, Nottingham, Coventry, Derby and London. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Leicester on Omio.

A view of Birmingham

Day trip from Leicester to Birmingham by bus

Why visit Birmingham for the day?

Birmingham is known for its industrial past, canal network and diverse food scene. It combines major shopping and cultural landmarks with lively neighbourhoods shaped by manufacturing, music and modern city life.

How to get from Leicester to Birmingham by bus?

There are 14 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 55 km distance in 1h 5m.

A view of Nottingham

Day trip from Leicester to Nottingham by bus

Why visit Nottingham for the day?

Nottingham is known for the Robin Hood legend, its lace-making past and a lively student atmosphere. The compact city blends Nottingham Castle and the Lace Market with independent shops, music and strong sporting traditions.

How to get from Leicester to Nottingham by bus?

There are 47 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest coach covers the 35 km distance in 40m.

A view of Coventry

Day trip from Leicester to Coventry by bus

Why visit Coventry for the day?

Coventry blends medieval history with post-war architecture and a strong industrial past. It is best known for its cathedral ruins, modern Coventry Cathedral and links to British car making.

How to get from Leicester to Coventry by bus?

There are 6 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:50, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 36 km distance in 45m.

A view of Derby

Day trip from Leicester to Derby by bus

Why visit Derby for the day?

Derby is an East Midlands city known for rail heritage, advanced engineering and a centre with Georgian and Victorian character. The Silk Mill and Cathedral Quarter connect its Industrial Revolution past with a practical, easy-going atmosphere.

How to get from Leicester to Derby by bus?

There are 27 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:03, the last at 23:57. The fastest coach covers the 39 km distance in 50m.

A view of London

Day trip from Leicester to London by bus

Why visit London for the day?

London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.

How to get from Leicester to London by bus?

There are 93 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest coach covers the 143 km distance in 1h 40m.

FAQs: Manchester to Leicester coach

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

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Leicester can start from as little as £6 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Leicester is £21; 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 Leicester is 2h 50m to travel the 119 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 Leicester leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester to Leicester leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 2 direct coaches a day from Manchester to Leicester with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Leicester, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Leicester. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester and Leicester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Leicester including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester to Leicester:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Leicester for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester to Leicester 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 to Leicester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Leicester:
  • 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 Leicester:
  • 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 Leicester. 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 Leicester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Leicester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester to Leicester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Leicester

Most Manchester to Leicester buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda). Use this guide to compare Manchester and Leicester 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 Leicester

Which Manchester station do buses to Leicester leave from?

Buses from Manchester to Leicester 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, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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 · £4 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · £0.89 · 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.

More options for your journey from Manchester to Leicester

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

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