- Recommended
Museum of Wigan Life
A local history museum with collections on Wigan life, archaeology and industry in a prominent town-centre building.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Wigan among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £3 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 8m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £3, while a train costs an average of £3.
Distance: 27 km
| Coach | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£3 Average Price Cheapest | £3 Average Price | £6 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 46m Average total duration 1h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 8m Average total duration Fastest 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Wigan:
A coach is £0.43 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Wigan costing on average £3.
Other travel options to Wigan take longer:
Coach takes on average 1h 16m.
Tickets start at around £3 compared to roughly £6 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £3. The journey takes 1h 16m versus 46m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
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.
Buses from Manchester to Wigan run on average 2 times per day, taking around 1h 16m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £3 but you can travel from only £2 by train.
The earliest coach runs at 03:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 27 km distance in 1h 8m.
Distance 27 km |
Average bus duration 1h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price £3 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 1h 8m |
First bus 3:45 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Discover the best of Wigan — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Wigan trip today.
A local history museum with collections on Wigan life, archaeology and industry in a prominent town-centre building.
A preserved mill engine and industrial heritage site where steam days bring Wigan’s engineering past to life.
A visitor centre and exhibition space telling the story of local canals, coal mining and urban regeneration.
A major heritage area of canals, warehouses and waterside walks linked to Wigan’s industrial story.
A large country park with woodland trails, gardens, family activities and broad views close to the town.
A scenic canal corridor popular for walking and cycling, with locks, wildlife and classic industrial-era views.
A savoury pie filled with diced potato, onion and corned beef. It is Wigan’s best-known local bake and a staple of north-west pie shop culture.
A buttered bread roll filled with a meat-and-potato pie. The playful local classic is strongly associated with Wigan and nearby Greater Manchester.
Slow-cooked tripe, usually from beef, traditionally served with onions and seasoning. Once common in Lancashire, it remains a notable old-fashioned regional dish.
Popular Turkish restaurant with charcoal-grilled meats, meze and warm service in a lively modern dining room.
Smart modern Indian restaurant serving curries, grills and small plates in a polished yet relaxed atmosphere.
Stylish restaurant and bar offering contemporary British and European dishes, cocktails and an upbeat evening ambience.
Moderate for England. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Manchester or London, while local buses and trains are fairly priced for visitors.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Taxi fares can be rounded up. In cafés, small change is appreciated but not expected.
Official public transport app
Wigan Wallgate Station -> Wigan Bus Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Wigan 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 Wigan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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