- Must visit
Shakespeare's Birthplace
Interactive museum inside Shakespeare's childhood home, exploring his family, writing, and Stratford background.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester to Stratford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct
Cheapest price on 20 Oct
£29
Average ticket price on 20 Oct
£29
Fastest journey on 20 Oct
8 h 50 m
Average journey duration on 20 Oct
9 h 39 m
Buses on 20 Oct
5
Distance
263 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Manchester to Stratford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Stratford will cost around £29 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £29.
Fast coaches
To travel from Manchester to Stratford you need to make at least one change.
FlixBus · FlixBus23:1011h25Manchester, Shudehill Interchange10:35London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change- FlixBus · FlixBus4:509h15Manchester, Shudehill Interchange14:05London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus13:408h50Manchester, Shudehill Interchange22:30London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:309h40Manchester, Shudehill Interchange18:10London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus15:109h05Manchester, Shudehill Interchange0:15London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus13:408h50Manchester, Shudehill Interchange22:30London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus15:109h05Manchester, Shudehill Interchange0:15London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:509h15Manchester, Shudehill Interchange14:05London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:309h40Manchester, Shudehill Interchange18:10London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus23:1011h25Manchester, Shudehill Interchange10:35London, Stratford City Bus Station£291One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Stratford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Stratford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £9 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 263 km distance in 3h 45m.
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 263 km |
Average bus duration 6h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price £9 |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 3h 45m |
First bus 0:05 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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 Stratford bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Stratford coaches for today, Monday 19 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 23:10 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 11h25 | 10:35 London, Stratford City Bus Station | 1 change | |
| Tuesday 20 October | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:50 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 9h15 | 14:05 London, Stratford City Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:30 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 9h40 | 18:10 London, Stratford City Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 13:40 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 8h50 | 22:30 London, Stratford City Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 15:10 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 9h05 | 0:15 London, Stratford City Bus Station | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Stratford coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer coaches services from Manchester to Stratford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Stratford.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Stratford.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Stratford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Stratford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Stratford.
Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express from Manchester to StratfordYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Stratford with FlixBus, National Express 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.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£9
FlixBus frequency
7 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
5h 25m
Cheapest National Express Price
£17
National Express frequency
3 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 Stratford
Things to do in Stratford
Discover the best of Stratford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stratford trip today.
- Must visit
Anne Hathaway's Cottage
Museum at Anne Hathaway's family cottage, with Tudor rooms and gardens that illuminate Shakespeare's early world.
- Recommended
Nash's House
Jacobean townhouse museum showing the life of Shakespeare's daughter Judith and 17th-century Stratford interiors.
- Must visit
Bancroft Gardens
Riverside public gardens with flower displays, paths, and open views beside the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
- Must visit
Henley Street
Historic shopping street lined with timber-framed buildings, independent shops, and several Shakespeare-related sights.
- Recommended
The Recreation Ground
Pleasant riverside walking area linking parks, boat activity, and broad Avon views close to the town centre.
Steak and Kidney Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with steak and kidney in rich gravy. A longstanding British pub classic often found on menus in Stratford.
Fish and Chips
Battered white fish with chips, usually served with mushy peas. A staple British takeaway and pub meal widely loved across Stratford.
Bangers and Mash
Sausages served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy. This comforting dish is a traditional favourite in English pubs and homes.
Loxley's Restaurant & Wine Bar
Long-established restaurant and deli known for Italian dishes, coffee and relaxed dining near the town centre.
Lambs Restaurant
Stylish restaurant in a historic building serving modern British dishes and cocktails with a polished but welcoming atmosphere.
The Dirty Duck
Traditional riverside pub serving British classics, cask ales and Sunday roasts in a historic timber-framed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Dining and hotels are often pricier in peak season, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. In cafés, tipping is optional.
TfL Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £1.75
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Stratford City Bus Station -> Stratford Town Centre, Stratford-upon-Avon
- Distance
- 160 km
- Travel time
- 25 min
- Contactless cards and mobile wallets work across TfL buses, Tube, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line and trams.
- For buses and trams, the Hopper fare gives unlimited journeys within 1 hour on the same card or device for £1.75.
Best day trips from Stratford by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Stratford are Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton, Canterbury and Birmingham. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Stratford on Omio.
Day trip from Stratford to Oxford by bus
Why visit Oxford for the day?
Oxford is known for its historic university, elegant colleges and long academic tradition. Its medieval streets, museums and riverside setting give the city a thoughtful but lively character.
How to get from Stratford to Oxford by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:53. The fastest coach covers the 89 km distance in 2h 5m.
Day trip from Stratford to Cambridge by bus
Why visit Cambridge for the day?
Cambridge is a historic university city on the River Cam, known for its colleges and punting. Its compact centre, museums and green spaces give it an academic yet lively feel.
How to get from Stratford to Cambridge by bus?
There are 6 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:20, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 73 km distance in 1h 14m.
Day trip from Stratford to Brighton by bus
Why visit Brighton for the day?
Brighton is a lively seaside city known for its pebble beach, Victorian pier and the Royal Pavilion. Its bohemian lanes, independent shops and strong arts scene give it a relaxed but energetic character.
How to get from Stratford to Brighton by bus?
There are 8 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 03:14, the last at 23:11. The fastest coach covers the 80 km distance in 1h 45m.
Day trip from Stratford 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 Stratford to Canterbury by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:20, the last at 23:48. The fastest coach covers the 81 km distance in 3h 10m.
Day trip from Stratford 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 Stratford to Birmingham by bus?
There are 9 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 166 km distance in 2h 20m.
FAQs: Manchester to Stratford coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Stratford 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 Stratford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Stratford can start from as little as £9 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Stratford is £23; 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 Stratford is 3h 45m to travel the 263 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 Stratford leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester to Stratford leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 2 direct coaches a day from Manchester to Stratford with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Stratford, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Stratford. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester and Stratford 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, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East, Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Coach Station . When arriving in Stratford , you can end your route in coach stations like London, Stratford City Bus Station.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at London, Stratford City Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Stratford including taking a coach, train and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester to Stratford:
- 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 Stratford for coach company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester to Stratford 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 FlixBus, 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 Stratford.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Stratford:
- 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 Stratford:
- 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 Stratford. 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 Stratford with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Stratford with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester to Stratford with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Stratford
Most Manchester to Stratford buses use the Manchester, Shudehill Interchange to London, Stratford City Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Stratford 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 Stratford
Which Manchester station do buses to Stratford leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Stratford leave from Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. The station is from Manchester city centre at Shudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom.
Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeShudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom
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, UK
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 · £1 · 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.
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 · £1 · 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 Stratford station do buses from Manchester arrive at?
Buses from Manchester to Stratford arrive at London, Stratford City Bus Station. London, Stratford City Bus Station is from Stratford city centre.
London, Stratford City Bus StationMontfichet Road, London E20 1EG, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to London, Stratford City Bus Station from Stratford city centre
Bus108 · 6m · £4 · every ~24 min
London, Stratford City Bus Station bus station facilities and services
London, Stratford City Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Five Guys (in the station), Wahaca (0.2 km), The Real Greek (0.3 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside Westfield Stratford City.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at London, Stratford City Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London, Stratford City Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London, Stratford City Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Most popular bus connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Stratford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Stratford and Manchester
Most popular bus connections
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