- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Preston to Manchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct
Cheapest price on 09 Oct
£6
Average ticket price on 09 Oct
£9
Fastest journey on 09 Oct
45 m
Average journey duration on 09 Oct
1 h
Buses on 09 Oct
3
Distance
45 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Preston to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Manchester will cost around £9 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £6.
Fast coaches
On Fri 09 Oct, we found 3 buses from Preston to Manchester, including 3 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 45 km distance in an average of 1 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 45 m .
The slowest buses will take 1 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
FlixBus14:151h05Preston, Bus Station15:20Manchester, Shudehill Interchange£61One-way0 changes
NX1813:200h45Preston, Bus Station4:05Manchester, Coach Station£101One-way0 changes- NX42422:351h10Preston, Bus Station23:45Manchester, Coach Station£101One-way0 changes
- NX1813:200h45Preston, Bus Station4:05Manchester, Coach Station£101One-way0 changes
- FlixBus14:151h05Preston, Bus Station15:20Manchester, Shudehill Interchange£61One-way0 changes
- NX42422:351h10Preston, Bus Station23:45Manchester, Coach Station£101One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Manchester run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £6 but you can travel from only £4 by train.
There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest coach covers the 45 km distance in 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £4
Distance 45 km |
Average bus duration 1h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 45m |
First bus 0:03 |
Last bus 23:56 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £4
Live departures
Preston to Manchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Manchester coaches for today, Thursday 8 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 14:15 Preston, Bus Station | 1h05 | 15:20 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 0 changesdirect | |
| NX424 | 22:35 Preston, Bus Station | 1h10 | 23:45 Manchester, Coach Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday 9 October | |||||
| NX181 | 3:20 Preston, Bus Station | 0h45 | 4:05 Manchester, Coach Station | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Preston to Manchester coaches with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Preston to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston 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 Preston 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston 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 Preston to Manchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Manchester.
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Preston to ManchesterYou can travel by bus between Preston to Manchester with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £4. 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
1h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£6
FlixBus frequency
1 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
45m
Cheapest National Express Price
£6
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 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
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.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side warehouse district with restored brick buildings, waterside walks, bars, galleries and one of the city’s most atmospheric settings.
- Recommended
Albert Square
Lively central square framed by major civic buildings and event space, ideal for architecture, seasonal markets and city-centre orientation.
- Recommended
Oldham Street
Characterful Northern Quarter street known for independent shops, record stores, creative spaces and eye-catching street art.
Rag Pudding
A flaky shortcrust pie filled with spiced minced beef, potato and onion. It is closely associated with Oldham and Greater Manchester chip shops.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A hearty hotpot of slow-cooked lamb or mutton with onions and sliced potatoes. A long-standing North West comfort dish served across Manchester pubs.
- Gluten-free
Manchester Tripe
A rich tripe stew cooked with onions, milk and stock. It was a classic working-class Manchester meal linked to the city’s historic tripe trade.
mana
Refined modern British tasting menus in an intimate city-centre setting. Best for a special meal with seasonal ingredients and polished service.
The Winston Churchill
Historic Victorian dining room known for oysters, seafood and classic British dishes. Traditional atmosphere with one of Manchester’s best-known interiors.
The Black Friar
Casual northern favourite serving Bury black pudding, pies and hearty breakfasts. Good for trying regional staples in a relaxed market setting.
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.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £1.40
- Day pass
- £7.10
To the city centre
Manchester Airport Train Station -> Manchester Piccadilly
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless Tap and Go works on Bee Network trams and buses. Remember to tap in and tap out on trams, and tap in on buses.
- Train tickets to MANCHESTER CTLZ are valid on Metrolink in Zone 1, which can help if you are connecting into the city centre.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Buses from Preston to Manchester
The bus service linking Preston and Manchester is operated by National Express, which runs 6 buses per day. Travel time can be as short as 45 minutes, although on average, this bus journey takes 1 hour. No stopovers or transfers are needed on this trip. The earliest bus departs Preston at 3:00 a.m., and coaches stop running at 8:15 p.m.
What are the departure and arrival stations for buses from Preston to Manchester?
Departure Station: Preston Bus Station, which can be found on the eastern side of the town centre, is less than a 10-minute walk from the town's main attractions, such as the Guild Hall Theatre, Harris Museum, and the Cenotaph. Preston railway station is 2 kilometres away, on the opposite side of town.
Arrival Station: Manchester Coach Station (also known as Chorlton Street station), located a couple hundred metres behind the pedestrian area of Canal Street. Historical and cultural attractions like the Opera House, Albert Hall, and the Central Library are under 1 kilometre away. The nearest Metrolink tram stop is Piccadilly Gardens, a short 4-minute walk from the coach station.
FAQs: Preston to Manchester coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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.
Cheap coach tickets from Preston to Manchester can start from as little as £6 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Preston to Manchester is £9; 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 Manchester is 45m to travel the 45 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 Manchester leaves at 0:03. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Preston to Manchester leaves at 23:56.
Yes, there are 3 direct coaches a day from Preston to Manchester with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Preston 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 Preston and Manchester 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 Manchester , you can end your route in coach stations like Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.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 Manchester, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Manchester including taking a coach and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Preston 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 Preston to Manchester for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Preston 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 Preston to Manchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Preston to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Preston to Manchester with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Manchester
Most Preston to Manchester buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Airport. Use this guide to compare Preston and Manchester 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 Manchester
Which Preston station do buses to Manchester leave from?
Buses from Preston to Manchester 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 Manchester station do buses from Preston arrive at?
Buses from Preston to Manchester most often arrive at Manchester, Coach Station. Some services arrive at Manchester, Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Manchester arrival station.
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.
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 · £4 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · £0.89 · 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.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester and Preston
Most popular bus connections
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