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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Thetford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Thetford run on average 5 times per day, taking around 7h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £24 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 05:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 232 km distance in 5h 20m.
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 232 km |
Average bus duration 7h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price £24 |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 5h 20m |
First bus 5:15 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 Thetford bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Thetford coaches for today, Tuesday 6 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 | 10h10 | 9:20 Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange) | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 23:59 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 11h11 | 11:10 Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange) | 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 Thetford coaches with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Manchester to Thetford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Thetford.
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 Thetford.
- 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.
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 Thetford.
Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express from Manchester to ThetfordYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Thetford with FlixBus, National Express for as low as £24. 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
5h 20m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£29
FlixBus frequency
5 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
7h 40m
Cheapest National Express Price
£24
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.
Complete guide to Thetford
Things to do in Thetford
Discover the best of Thetford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thetford trip today.
- Recommended
Ancient House Museum of Thetford Life
Town museum in a former court building, covering local archaeology, wildlife, industry and daily life across centuries.
Thetford Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum
Volunteer-run military museum exploring the regiment’s history through uniforms, medals and stories linked to Norfolk service.
- Must visit
Thetford Forest
Broad heathland and forest landscape near Thetford, popular for walking, cycling and experiencing the distinctive Breckland scenery.
- Recommended
Riverside Walk
Riverside green space ideal for gentle walks, wildlife spotting and views of nearby historic buildings in the heart of town.
Melford Common
Central public garden with lawns, seating and a war memorial, offering a peaceful stop close to shops and historic streets.
- Gluten-free
Norfolk Ham
A Norfolk staple of cured ham, traditionally sliced thick and served cold. It reflects the county’s long pig-rearing and curing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Norfolk Turkey
Free-range turkey reared in Norfolk, commonly roasted for Sunday lunch or festive meals. The county is strongly associated with British turkey farming.
Rabbit Pie
A rustic game dish using rabbit, often slow-cooked in pie or stew. It reflects Breckland’s historic heathland hunting and country cooking traditions.
Thetford Spice
Popular Indian restaurant and takeaway known for reliable curries and a casual atmosphere, well established with local diners in Thetford.
OMG Steakhouse
Casual steakhouse and grill serving burgers, steaks and hearty mains. A familiar choice for relaxed group meals in the town centre.
The Red Lion
Traditional riverside pub in Thetford serving British classics, roasts and drinks in a relaxed historic setting near the Little Ouse.
Pound sterling (£)
Thetford is generally cheaper than larger UK tourist cities, with lower dining and lodging costs and limited public transport spending for most 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 upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-3.80 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Greater Anglia
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange) -> Thetford town centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Thetford is compact; the bus interchange is within easy walking distance of the town centre.
- Buy rail tickets before boarding where possible. Greater Anglia sells tickets via its website and app.
Best day trips from Thetford by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Thetford are Bury Saint Edmunds, Norwich, Cambridge and Ipswich. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Thetford on Omio.
Day trip from Thetford to Bury Saint Edmunds by bus
Why visit Bury Saint Edmunds for the day?
Bury Saint Edmunds is a historic Suffolk market town known for its abbey ruins, cathedral and Georgian centre. It has a compact feel, with Abbey Gardens, independent shops and a long brewing heritage giving it character.
Day trip from Thetford to Norwich by bus
Why visit Norwich for the day?
Norwich is known for its Norman cathedral, medieval lanes and strong independent character. Its historic market, literary links and mix of old churches and creative spaces give it a lively but relaxed feel.
How to get from Thetford to Norwich by bus?
There are 17 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:24, the last at 23:35. The fastest coach covers the 44 km distance in 35m.
Day trip from Thetford 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 Thetford to Cambridge by bus?
There are 11 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:25, the last at 23:45. The fastest coach covers the 49 km distance in 55m.
Day trip from Thetford to Ipswich by bus
Why visit Ipswich for the day?
Ipswich is one of England’s oldest towns, known for its waterfront and maritime past. Its medieval streets, parks and Suffolk atmosphere make it feel historic yet lived-in.
How to get from Thetford to Ipswich by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 01:00, the last at 21:29. The fastest coach covers the 48 km distance in 3h 10m.
FAQs: Manchester to Thetford coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Thetford 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 Thetford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Thetford can start from as little as £24 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Thetford is £38; 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 Thetford is 5h 20m to travel the 232 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 Thetford leaves at 5:15. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester to Thetford leaves at 23:55.
There are 5 coaches a day from Manchester to Thetford which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Thetford, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Thetford. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester and Thetford 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, Coach Station, Manchester, Airport . When arriving in Thetford , you can end your route in coach stations like Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange).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 Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange), located 0 away from the city centre.
Yes, you can take a train between Manchester and Thetford.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester to Thetford:
- 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 Thetford for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester to Thetford 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 Thetford.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Thetford:
- 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 Thetford:
- 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 Thetford. 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 Thetford with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Thetford with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester to Thetford with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Thetford
Most Manchester to Thetford buses use the Manchester, Shudehill Interchange to Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange) station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Thetford 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 Thetford
Which Manchester station do buses to Thetford leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Thetford 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 · £0.89 · 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, 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 Thetford station do buses from Manchester arrive at?
Buses from Manchester to Thetford arrive at Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange). Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange) is from Thetford city centre.
Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange)London Rd, Thetford, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange) from Thetford city centre
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Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange) bus station facilities and services
Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange) 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 Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange). ATMs are available at Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thetford, London Road (Bus Interchange): Ramps available for buses.
Most popular bus connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Thetford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Thetford and Manchester
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