- Must visit
Museum of Liverpool
A major museum covering Liverpool’s global links, city life and transport, with family-friendly displays and broad local history.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Preston to Liverpool
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct
Cheapest price on 20 Oct
£16
Average ticket price on 20 Oct
£16
Fastest journey on 20 Oct
3 h
Average journey duration on 20 Oct
4 h 20 m
Buses on 20 Oct
4
Distance
43 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Preston to Liverpool is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Liverpool will cost around £16 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £16.
Fast coaches
To travel from Preston to Liverpool you need to make at least one change.
NX424 · NX17022:353h15Preston, Bus Station1:50Liverpool, University£161One-way1 change- NX424 · NX54122:353h00Preston, Bus Station1:35Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place£161One-way1 change
- NX181 · NX1703:205h50Preston, Bus Station9:10Liverpool, University£161One-way1 change
- NX181 · NX4213:205h15Preston, Bus Station8:35Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place£161One-way1 change
- NX424 · NX54122:353h00Preston, Bus Station1:35Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place£161One-way1 change
- NX424 · NX17022:353h15Preston, Bus Station1:50Liverpool, University£161One-way1 change
- NX181 · NX4213:205h15Preston, Bus Station8:35Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place£161One-way1 change
- NX181 · NX1703:205h50Preston, Bus Station9:10Liverpool, University£161One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Liverpool
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Liverpool run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £9 but you can travel from only £4 by train.
The earliest coach runs at 01:55, the last at 23:45. The fastest coach covers the 43 km distance in 1h 40m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £4
Distance 43 km |
Average bus duration 2h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price £9 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 1h 40m |
First bus 1:55 |
Last bus 23:45 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £4
Live departures
Preston to Liverpool bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Liverpool 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX424 · NX170 | 22:35 Preston, Bus Station | 3h15 | 1:50 Liverpool, University | 1 change | |
| NX424 · NX541 | 22:35 Preston, Bus Station | 3h00 | 1:35 Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 1 change | |
| Tuesday 20 October | |||||
| NX181 · NX170 | 3:20 Preston, Bus Station | 5h50 | 9:10 Liverpool, University | 1 change | |
| NX181 · NX421 | 3:20 Preston, Bus Station | 5h15 | 8:35 Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 1 change | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Preston to Liverpool coaches with Omio?
National Express operates all coaches services from Preston to Liverpool.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Liverpool.
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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Liverpool.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Liverpool.
Bus providers: National Express from Preston to LiverpoolYou can travel by bus between Preston to Liverpool with National Express for as low as £4. 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
1h 40m
Cheapest National Express Price
£9
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 Liverpool
Things to do in Liverpool
Discover the best of Liverpool — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Liverpool trip today.
- Must visit
World Museum
An extensive museum of archaeology, world cultures and natural history, known for varied displays and free family visits.
- Recommended
Tate Liverpool
A waterfront gallery with British art, decorative works and changing exhibitions in a landmark dockside building.
- Must visit
Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
Liverpool’s revived dock complex with museums, waterfront walks, historic warehouses and some of the city’s best views.
- Recommended
Ropewalks
A compact central quarter known for independent shops, street art, music venues and a lively creative atmosphere.
- Recommended
Hope Street
A broad Georgian street lined with cultural venues, gardens and major civic buildings, ideal for a scenic walk.
- Gluten-free
Scouse
A hearty beef stew with root vegetables, long linked to Liverpool’s dockworkers and home cooking. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional dishes.
- Gluten-free
Blind Scouse
A lighter local variation of scouse made with lamb or mutton, potatoes and vegetables. It reflects older Liverpool home-style cooking traditions.
- Vegetarian
Wet Nelly
A local bakery favourite made from leftover cake pieces bound with sweet filling and covered in icing or chocolate. It is strongly associated with Liverpool bakeries.
Roski
Refined modern British tasting menus in an intimate, polished setting. A strong choice for a special meal in central Liverpool.
Ma Boyle's
Historic pub famed for serving traditional scouse and classic British comfort food in a busy, characterful city-centre setting.
The London Carriage Works
Long-established seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, shellfish and a smart but relaxed dining room near the waterfront.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while buses, trains and attractions can still add up in peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip about 10%. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually just small change.
Merseyrail
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.95
To the city centre
Liverpool ONE, Liverpool -> Liverpool Lime Street, Liverpool
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless and card payment are accepted for Merseyrail tickets. Bus and rail fares vary by ticket type, so check Merseytravel before travel.
- Liverpool ONE is already in the city centre. For most central sights, walking is often quicker than waiting for a bus or train.
Best day trips from Liverpool by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Liverpool are Manchester, Chester, Birmingham, Leeds and York. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Liverpool on Omio.
Day trip from Liverpool to Manchester by bus
Why visit Manchester for the day?
Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, influential music and deep football culture. Red-brick canalside areas, major museums and lively nightlife give it an energetic northern character.
How to get from Liverpool to Manchester by bus?
There are 35 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest coach covers the 50 km distance in 50m.
Day trip from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Chester by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 02:19, the last at 23:58.
Day trip from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Birmingham by bus?
There are 11 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:30, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 126 km distance in 2h 0m.
Day trip from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Leeds by bus?
There are 47 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest coach covers the 104 km distance in 2h 20m.
Day trip from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to York by bus?
There are 2 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:18, the last at 23:44. The fastest coach covers the 139 km distance in 3h 18m.
Coaches from Preston to Liverpool
Taking coaches from Preston to Liverpool is a relaxing way of making the journey between these two northern cities. Coaches are operated by National Express and most take from just under three hours to approximately three and a half hours to complete the journey with one connection en route. There is also one daily evening departure with a much faster journey time of just one hour. All departures are from Preston Tithebarn Street Coach Station with arrivals at Liverpool One Bus Station, Canning Street.
Which coach companies travel from Preston to Liverpool?
All coaches to Liverpool from Preston are provided by National Express, a large part-British and part-multinational owned company that offers an extensive network of routes across the UK and Europe. All National Express coaches are modern and comfortable with onboard services that include WiFi, toilets, luggage space and air conditioning or heating.
How long is the coach from Preston to Liverpool?
Coaches on connecting routes from Preston to Liverpool take between two hours 50 minutes and three and a half hours to complete their journey. One transfer is required and this is made at Manchester Coach Station. There is also one daily direct route with a fast journey time of just one hour.
How many coaches are there from Preston to Liverpool?
There are six coaches to Liverpool from Preston on connecting routes and one direct service. A similar timetable is in place seven days a week. Coach departures start in the early morning and continue at regular intervals throughout the day until late evening.
What are the departure and arrival stations for coaches from Preston to Liverpool?
Departure bus station: Coaches from Preston to Liverpool depart from Preston Tithebarn Street Coach Station, a listed example of 20th-century Brutalist architecture that has recently been refurbished. It is located to the east of the city centre and among its facilities are car parking, WiFi, waiting areas and cafes.
Arrival bus station: Coaches to Liverpool from Preston finish their journey at Liverpool One Bus Station, Canning Street. This is part of the Liverpool One shopping centre in the heart of the city. It is a few minutes' walk from the train station and is served by local buses and taxis. At the bus station, there are toilets and waiting areas while passengers have access to the services, shops and restaurants in the shopping centre.
FAQs: Preston to Liverpool coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Liverpool 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 Liverpool, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Preston to Liverpool can start from as little as £9 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Preston to Liverpool is £16; 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 Preston to Liverpool is 1h 40m to travel the 43 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 Preston to Liverpool leaves at 1:55. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Preston to Liverpool leaves at 23:45.
There are 3 coaches a day from Preston to Liverpool which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Preston to Liverpool, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Liverpool. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Preston and Liverpool and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Preston , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Preston, Bus Station . When arriving in Liverpool , you can end your route in coach stations like Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place, Liverpool, University, Liverpool, Botanic Park, Liverpool, Edge Lane Drive, Liverpool, Kwik Fit Old Swan.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Preston, Bus Station, which is located around 1 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place, located 1 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Liverpool including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Preston to Liverpool:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Preston to Liverpool for coach company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Preston to Liverpool 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 Preston to Liverpool.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Preston to Liverpool:
- 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 Preston to Liverpool:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Preston to Liverpool.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Preston to Liverpool with the following coach company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Preston to Liverpool with the following coach company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Preston to Liverpool with the following coach company: National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Liverpool
Most Preston to Liverpool buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place station pair, with some services arriving at Liverpool, University. Use this guide to compare Preston and Liverpool bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Preston
Arrival bus stations in Liverpool
Which Preston station do buses to Liverpool leave from?
Buses from Preston to Liverpool leave from Preston, Bus Station. The station is 2 km from Preston city centre at Preston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · £8 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Which Liverpool station do buses from Preston arrive at?
Buses from Preston to Liverpool most often arrive at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place. Some services arrive at Liverpool, University, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Liverpool arrival station.
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning PlaceCanning Place, Liverpool L1 8JX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10A · 11m · £4 · every ~25 min
City Explorer 101 · 41m · every ~3 min
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place 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 Station (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 Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place: Elevators, ramps.
Liverpool, UniversityUniversity of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, University from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, University is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10A · 4m · £4 · every ~11 min
Liverpool, University bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, University has practical services for this route, including Taxis.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, University: Taxis.
Liverpool, Botanic ParkWavertree Botanic Garden and Park, Edge Ln, Innovation Blvd, Liverpool L7 9PL, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, Botanic Park from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, Botanic Park is 2 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus79 · 13m · £2 · every ~21 min
Liverpool, Botanic Park bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, Botanic Park 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 Liverpool, Botanic Park. ATMs are available at Liverpool, Botanic Park.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool, Botanic Park.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, Botanic Park: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool, Botanic Park: Station is accessible for those with reduced mobility.
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Liverpool
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Liverpool and Preston
Most popular bus connections
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