- Must visit
Turner Contemporary
Contemporary gallery on the seafront showing modern and historic art linked to J M W Turner and the changing light of the Kent coast.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester to Margate
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct
Cheapest price on 09 Oct
£23
Average ticket price on 09 Oct
£37
Fastest journey on 09 Oct
9 h
Average journey duration on 09 Oct
9 h 56 m
Buses on 09 Oct
5
Distance
339 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Manchester to Margate is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Margate will cost around £37 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £23.
Fast coaches
On Fri 09 Oct, we found 5 buses from Manchester to Margate, including 5 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 339 km distance in an average of 9 h 56 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h .
The slowest buses will take 10 h 25 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.
23:5510h15Manchester10:10Margate£231One-way0 changes- 14:0010h25Manchester0:25Margate£241One-way0 changes
- 11:159h00Manchester20:15Margate£361One-way0 changes
- 8:209h45Manchester18:05Margate£401One-way0 changes
- 22:5510h15Manchester9:10Margate£651One-way0 changes
- 11:159h00Manchester20:15Margate£361One-way0 changes
- 8:209h45Manchester18:05Margate£401One-way0 changes
- 23:5510h15Manchester10:10Margate£231One-way0 changes
- 22:5510h15Manchester9:10Margate£651One-way0 changes
- 14:0010h25Manchester0:25Margate£241One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Margate
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Margate run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £21 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 05:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 339 km distance in 7h 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
Distance 339 km |
Average bus duration 8h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price £21 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 7h 55m |
First bus 5:15 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 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
Why should you book Manchester to Margate coaches with Omio?
National Express operates all coaches services from Manchester to Margate.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Margate.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- 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 Margate.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- 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 Margate.
Bus providers: National Express from Manchester to MargateYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Margate with National Express for as low as £21. 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 National Express Duration
7h 55m
Cheapest National Express Price
£21
National Express frequency
5 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 Margate
Things to do in Margate
Discover the best of Margate — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Margate trip today.
- Recommended
The Crab Museum
Museum exploring the history of crab museum collections through natural science, art and humour. A quirky recent favourite in the Old Town.
- Recommended
Tracey Karloff
Artist Tracey Emin’s gallery and studio space in Margate, presenting rotating exhibitions of contemporary art in a carefully restored bathhouse.
- Must visit
Margate Main Sands
Sandy Blue Flag beach beside the harbour and old town. Ideal for sea views, paddling and classic seaside atmosphere close to major attractions.
- Recommended
Margate Harbour Arm
Historic harbour arm and quayside with sea views, galleries, events and access to the lighthouse. A lively place for a walk in all seasons.
- Recommended
Margate Old Town
Characterful quarter of narrow streets with independent shops, antiques, small galleries and historic buildings just behind the seafront.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Fresh native oysters from the Kent coast, long linked to nearby Whitstable and Thanet. Briny, mineral and traditionally eaten simply with lemon.
Fish And Chips
A classic seaside supper of battered white fish and chips, deeply rooted in Margate’s harbour and beach culture.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Or Pickled Herring
Fresh herring, traditionally cured or smoked in Kent. It reflects the historic fishing trade along the Thanet coast.
Barletta
Established bistro and wine bar in Margate Old Town, serving seasonal small plates and European-leaning cooking.
Angela's
Popular seafront seafood restaurant by the harbour, known for fresh fish, shellfish and relaxed coastal views.
The Greedy Cow
Stylish casual spot near the seafront serving brunch, coffee and modern British plates in a bright, friendly setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Dining and accommodation are often cheaper than London, but summer weekends and seafront stays can raise prices.
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
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is good and not already added. Round up small taxi fares. Cafés do not expect tips, but spare change is welcome.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city centre
Margate, Marine Terrace -> Margate Town Centre, Cecil Square
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Stagecoach operates most local buses in Margate, including the Loop linking Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate. Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses.
- If you plan several bus journeys in Thanet, a DayRider may be better value than separate single fares. Buy tickets on board or in the Stagecoach Bus app.
Best day trips from Margate by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Margate are Canterbury, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Whitstable and Herne Bay. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Margate on Omio.
Day trip from Margate to Canterbury by bus
Why visit Canterbury for the day?
Canterbury is best known for its cathedral, medieval streets and long role in English religious history. Its compact centre mixes historic buildings with a lively student atmosphere, independent shops and riverside walks.
How to get from Margate to Canterbury by bus?
There are 4 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:18, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 24 km distance in 35m.
Day trip from Margate to Broadstairs by bus
Why visit Broadstairs for the day?
Broadstairs is a Kent seaside town known for sandy bays and its connection to Charles Dickens. Viking Bay, cliff walks and a traditional promenade give it a relaxed coastal character.
How to get from Margate to Broadstairs by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:14, the last at 23:30.
Day trip from Margate to Ramsgate by bus
Why visit Ramsgate for the day?
Ramsgate is a Kent seaside town known for its Royal Harbour, elegant seafront and sandy beach. Its maritime history, links to the Dunkirk evacuation and lively waterfront give it a practical, historic character.
How to get from Margate to Ramsgate by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:35.
Day trip from Margate to Whitstable by bus
Why visit Whitstable for the day?
Whitstable is a north Kent seaside town known for oysters, a working harbour and a relaxed maritime feel. Its shingle beach, beach huts and independent cafés give it an easy-going character shaped by fishing traditions.
How to get from Margate to Whitstable by bus?
There are 5 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:17, the last at 23:30. The fastest coach covers the 25 km distance in 55m.
Day trip from Margate to Herne Bay by bus
Why visit Herne Bay for the day?
Herne Bay is a traditional Kent seaside town known for its shingle beach and Victorian seafront. It feels calmer than larger resorts, with beach huts, coastal walks and a distinct north Kent maritime character.
How to get from Margate to Herne Bay by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:33, the last at 22:17.
FAQs: Manchester to Margate coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Margate 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 Margate, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Margate can start from as little as £21 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Margate is £42; 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 Margate is 7h 55m to travel the 339 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 Margate leaves at 5:15. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester to Margate leaves at 23:55.
There are 4 coaches a day from Manchester to Margate which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Margate, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Margate. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester and Margate 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 . When arriving in Margate , you can end your route in coach stations like Margate, Marine Terrace, Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court.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 Margate, Marine Terrace, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Margate including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Margate for coach company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester to Margate:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester to Margate 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 Margate.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Margate:
- 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 Margate:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Manchester to Margate.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Manchester to Margate with the following coach company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Margate with the following coach company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester to Margate with the following coach company: National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Margate
Most Manchester to Margate buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Margate, Marine Terrace station pair, with some services arriving at Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Margate 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 Margate
Which Manchester station do buses to Margate leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Margate 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.
Which Margate station do buses from Manchester arrive at?
Buses from Manchester to Margate most often arrive at Margate, Marine Terrace. Some services arrive at Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Margate arrival station.
Margate, Marine TerraceMargate, Station Approach, Margate CT9 5AD, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Margate, Marine Terrace from Margate city centre
Bus35 · 7m
944, 8 · 10m · £3 · every ~4 min
Margate, Marine Terrace bus station facilities and services
Margate, Marine Terrace 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 Margate, Marine Terrace. ATMs are available at Margate, Marine Terrace.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Margate, Marine Terrace.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Margate, Marine Terrace: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Margate, Marine Terrace: The station is accessible for wheelchair users.
Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court
City-centre transport
Getting to Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court from Margate city centre
Bus69 · 9m · £3 · every ~2 min
Most popular bus connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Margate
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Margate and Manchester
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