Portsmouth to Manchester bus with National Express

Wed 14 Oct
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Portsmouth to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct

Cheapest price on 14 Oct

£25

Average ticket price on 14 Oct

£32

Fastest journey on 14 Oct

8 h 20 m

Average journey duration on 14 Oct

8 h 32 m

Buses on 14 Oct

20

Distance

308 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Manchester will cost around £32 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £25.

Fast coaches

To travel from Portsmouth to Manchester you need to make at least one change.

  • National ExpressNX030 · NX540
    10:458h45
    Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
    19:30Manchester, Coach Station
    £251One-way
    1 change
  • National ExpressNX030 · NX541
    14:359h50
    Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
    0:25Manchester, Coach Station
    £251One-way
    1 change
  • National ExpressNX030 · NX540
    11:058h25
    Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
    19:30Manchester, Coach Station
    £271One-way
    1 change
  • National ExpressNX030 · NX540
    7:299h01
    Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
    16:30Manchester, Coach Station
    £281One-way
    1 change
  • National ExpressNX030 · NX540
    7:508h40
    Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
    16:30Manchester, Coach Station
    £291One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Portsmouth to Manchester run on average 18 times per day, taking around 7h 52m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.

The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 308 km distance in 6h 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
308 km
Average bus duration
7h 52m
Cheapest ticket price
£13
Buses per day
18
Fastest bus
6h 20m
First bus
0:05
Last bus
23:55
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
14 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

Portsmouth to Manchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Manchester coaches for today, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National ExpressNX030 · NX54015:54 Portsmouth, University
8h36
0:30 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54016:10 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
8h20
0:30 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX42419:55 Portsmouth, University
10h10
6:05 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX42420:10 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
9h55
6:05 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
Wednesday 14 October
National ExpressNX030 · NX5403:05 Portsmouth, University
9h05
12:10 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX5403:20 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
8h50
12:10 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX5405:20 Portsmouth, University
9h20
14:40 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX5405:35 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
9h05
14:40 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX5407:29 Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
9h01
16:30 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX5407:35 Portsmouth, University
8h55
16:30 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX5407:50 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
8h40
16:30 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54010:45 Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
8h45
19:30 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54010:49 Portsmouth, University
8h41
19:30 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54011:05 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
8h25
19:30 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54012:39 Portsmouth, University
9h31
22:10 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54012:55 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
9h15
22:10 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54114:35 Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
9h50
0:25 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54114:39 Portsmouth, University
9h46
0:25 Manchester, Coach Station1 change
National ExpressNX030 · NX54114:55 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
9h30
0:25 Manchester, Coach Station1 change

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Portsmouth to Manchester coaches with Omio?

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

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 Portsmouth to Manchester.
  • 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 Portsmouth to Manchester.

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

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Portsmouth to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Manchester with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £13. 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
6h 35m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£43
FlixBus frequency
4 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
6h 20m
Cheapest National Express Price
£13
National Express frequency
18 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 Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

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

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Major science and industry museum on historic railway land, with galleries on textiles, transport and Manchester’s role in modern innovation.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

Large university museum with natural history, archaeology and cultural collections, plus changing exhibitions in a prominent Oxford Road building.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Leading art museum with British and European paintings, design, costume and craft collections in a landmark city-centre building.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK city. Hotels can be pricey at peak times, but dining, pubs and local transport are usually cheaper than London.

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
£70+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is good and not already added. Round up taxi fares; cafés usually do not require tips.

Best day trips from Manchester by bus

The most popular day trips by bus from Manchester are Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Chester and York. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Manchester on Omio.

A view of Liverpool

Day trip from Manchester to Liverpool by bus

Why visit Liverpool for the day?

Liverpool is known for The Beatles, football and a waterfront shaped by its maritime past. Its grand docks, museums and lively city centre give it a proud, creative character.

How to get from Manchester to Liverpool by bus?

There are 34 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest coach covers the 50 km distance in 45m.

A view of Leeds

Day trip from Manchester to Leeds by bus

Why visit Leeds for the day?

Leeds is a major West Yorkshire city known for Victorian arcades, shopping and a lively music scene. Its industrial heritage, regenerated waterfront and large student population give it an energetic but down-to-earth character.

How to get from Manchester to Leeds by bus?

There are 23 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:01, the last at 23:52. The fastest coach covers the 57 km distance in 1h 0m.

A view of Sheffield

Day trip from Manchester to Sheffield by bus

Why visit Sheffield for the day?

Sheffield is known for its steelmaking heritage, modern music culture and easy access to green space. It feels both urban and outdoorsy, with Victorian buildings, independent venues and the Peak District nearby.

How to get from Manchester to Sheffield by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 00:01, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 52 km distance in 1h 30m.

A view of Chester

Day trip from Manchester to Chester by bus

Why visit Chester for the day?

Chester is known for its Roman walls, medieval streets and the distinctive black-and-white Rows. Compact and walkable, it blends deep history with a relaxed riverside setting and a lively city centre.

How to get from Manchester to Chester by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 00:07, the last at 23:57.

A view of York

Day trip from Manchester to York by bus

Why visit York for the day?

York is known for its Roman and Viking heritage, medieval streets and the imposing York Minster. Its compact centre, old walls and busy mix of shops, pubs and museums make it easy to grasp the city's historic character.

How to get from Manchester to York by bus?

There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest coach covers the 93 km distance in 1h 46m.

FAQs: Portsmouth to Manchester coach

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

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Portsmouth to Manchester can start from as little as £13 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Portsmouth to Manchester is £33; 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 Portsmouth to Manchester is 6h 20m to travel the 308 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 Portsmouth to Manchester leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Portsmouth to Manchester leaves at 23:55.
There are 18 coaches a day from Portsmouth to Manchester 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 Portsmouth to Manchester, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Manchester. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Manchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Manchester including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Portsmouth to Manchester:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Portsmouth to Manchester for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Portsmouth to Manchester 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 Portsmouth to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Portsmouth to Manchester:
  • 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 Portsmouth to Manchester:
  • 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 Portsmouth to Manchester. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Portsmouth to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Portsmouth to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Portsmouth to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Portsmouth and Manchester

Most Portsmouth to Manchester buses use the Portsmouth, University to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Manchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Portsmouth
Arrival bus stations in Manchester
Portsmouth, University
Portsmouth, The Hard InterchangeThe Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange from Portsmouth city centre

Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · £1 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · £2 · every ~214 min

Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange bus station facilities and services

Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange 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 Hard (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Elevators, ramps.

Portsmouth, International PortWharf Road, Portsmouth PO2 8RU, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth, International Port from Portsmouth city centre

Portsmouth, International Port is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:

BusX4, X5, Pr1 · 3m · every ~55 min
8, 3, 7, X4, X5 · 6m · £2 · every ~113 min
725 · 15m · £2

Portsmouth, International Port bus station facilities and services

Portsmouth, International Port has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café in the terminal (in the station), Fast-food outlet (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance of the terminal.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, International Port.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth, International Port: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, International Port: Elevators, ramps.

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