Manchester to Preston bus with Megabus

Sun, Dec 21
+ Add return
Megabus
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
AirCoach
1,000+ travel companies
Megabus
National Express
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Preston

Showing times and prices for Dec 21

Cheapest price

€9

Average price

€10

Fastest journey

50 m

Average duration

57 m

Buses per day

3

Distance

45 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Preston will cost around €10 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €9.

Fast buses

Of the 3 buses that leave Manchester for Preston on Sun, Dec 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 21 the direct buses cover the 45 km distance in an average of 57 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 50 m .

On Sun, Dec 21 the slowest buses will take 1 h 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.

FlixBusFlixBus
04:10PM1h00
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
05:10PMPreston, Bus Station
91One-way
0 transfers
National ExpressNX424
06:10AM1h00
Manchester, Coach Station
07:10AMPreston, Bus Station
111One-way
0 transfers
National ExpressNX181
01:35AM0h50
Manchester, Coach Station
02:25AMPreston, Bus Station
111One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Manchester to Preston

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €5, and a bus costs an average of €6.

Distance: 45 km

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

€10

Average price

€10

Average price

Cheapest

1h 42m

Average total duration

1h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 11m

Average total duration

Fastest

41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
Megabus

Most popular bus company

Northern Rail (3)

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Manchester to Preston bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Preston buses for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 4:09 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressNX4246:10 AM Manchester, Coach Station
1h00
7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus4:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
1h00
5:10 PM Preston, Bus Station0 transfersDirect
national_expressNX540 · RL1526:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station
2h35
8:50 PM Preston, Bus Station1 transfer
Sunday, December 21
national_expressNX1811:35 AM Manchester, Coach Station
0h50
2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Preston by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Sun
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Fri
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Jan 03

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Preston run on average 4 times per day, taking around 1h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €6 but you can travel from only €5 by train.

There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:03, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 45 km distance in 1h 0m.

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 €5
Distance
45 km
Average bus duration
1h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
€6
Buses per day
4
Direct buses
3
Fastest bus
1h 0m
First bus
00:03
Last bus
23:55
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 €5

Bus providers: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus from Manchester to PrestonYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Preston with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus for as low as €5. 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 Duration
1h 0m
Cheapest 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 Duration
1h 0m
Cheapest Price
€10
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.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 0m
Cheapest Price
€13
Megabus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Preston

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Preston by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Preston can start from as little as €7 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Preston is €11; 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 Preston is 50 min   to travel the 44 km long route, with around there are 5 coaches per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first coach from Manchester to Preston leaves at 00: 24. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last coach from Manchester to Preston leaves at 23: 29.
Yes, there are 4 direct coaches a day from Manchester to Preston with Megabus, National Express or FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
For the best Manchester to Preston coach to book, you can travel safely and comfortably with Megabus, National Express or FlixBus. However, it's always good to check all possible coach companies with services to Preston from Manchester to compare what amenities they may offer.

Passengers board the coach most frequently from Manchester, Coach Station, which is located around 0.9 miles (1.5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Preston, Bus Station, located 1.2 miles (1.9 km) away from the city centre.

A day trip to Preston from Manchester is worth doing with a journey time of 50 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Manchester to Preston by coach is February.
You have options as you can travel to Preston from Manchester 2 different ways: train or coach.
No, the coach from Manchester to Preston has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Preston.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Manchester to Preston.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Manchester to Preston, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the coach from Manchester to Preston.
    No, luggage for the coach from Manchester to Preston needs to be booked in addition.
    No, there are no additional luggage options for the coach from Manchester to Preston.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Manchester to Preston.
    No, there are no USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Preston.
    No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Manchester to Preston.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Manchester to Preston

    Manchester
    Preston
    The major bus station for departures in Manchester is Manchester, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Coach Station for your trip from Manchester to Preston.
    Manchester, Coach StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 06:00-22:00
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Chorlton Street
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Café at the Station (in the station)
    • Fast Food Express (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the main entrance.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Ramps, assistance
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Manchester, Coach Station
    • Bus: 50, 192, 201, 203, 205, 219, 255, 256 Train: Manchester Piccadilly Metro: Piccadilly Gardens
    Manchester, AirportWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    ShowerShower
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 00:00-23:59
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    2 km
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Terminal Road North
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Burger King (in the station)
    • Giraffe (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the terminal, with several companies offering services.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps, assistance
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Manchester, Airport
    • Bus: 43, 103 Train: Manchester Airport
    Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 05:00-23:30
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Shudehill
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the interchange.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    • Bus: 42, 43, 135 Tram: Metrolink
    HomeBusesBus tickets to PrestonManchester to Preston bus

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