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Bedford to Manchester from undefined38: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Bedford, United Kingdom
to
Manchester, United Kingdom

How to Get from Bedford to Manchester: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$38 by carBest price
267 kmDistance
2h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bedford to Manchester with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
3h  7m
Estimated price
47-146
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  50m
Estimated price
38-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 267 km
Duration: 2h 50m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  16m
Estimated price
66-245
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  21m
Estimated price
70-228

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $38 $38 $35 $35 $35 $35 $35
Train $86 $87 $58 $88 $63 $88 $41
Fly $117 $62 $49 $58 $68 $87 $59
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Traveling From Bedford to Manchester

The journey from Bedford to Manchester presents you with a shift from the tranquil charm of riverside walks and historic buildings to the vibrant pulse of a bustling city filled with culture and nightlife.

Best Neighbourhoods in Manchester

Manchester boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct flavors and experiences.

Northern Quarter
• Trendy streets filled with independent shops and cafes.
• Vibrant art scene and live music venues.
Castlefield
• Picturesque canals with scenic walking paths.
• Historic Roman ruins and stylish bars.
Deansgate
• Central location with high-end restaurants and shops.
• Iconic Manchester landmarks nearby, including the cathedral.

Best Times To Visit Manchester's Attractions

Timing your visits to Manchester's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

The Museum of Science and Industry
Weekdays in the morning are ideal for avoiding crowds and fully enjoying exhibits.
Manchester Art Gallery
Visit during late afternoons on weekdays for a quieter atmosphere and better access.
Old Trafford
Tours are less crowded on non-match days, allowing for a more relaxed visit.

Manchester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Manchester features a temperate maritime climate with generally mild temperatures and frequent rainfall, making a waterproof jacket a wise travel companion. Late spring and early summer provide the sunniest days, ideal for exploring the city, while the chill of winter brings a cozy atmosphere you might appreciate during the festive season.

Dining Recommendation

In Manchester, sample the iconic meat and potato pie at the acclaimed café, Betty's, which showcases hearty northern flavors that differ from Bedford's more traditional fare. The lively atmosphere and emphasis on local ingredients create a dining experience that captures the essence of Manchester's rich culinary landscape.

Bedford - Manchester operators

Explore transport companies operating between Bedford and Manchester, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Bedford Bus Station Stop N to Milton Keynes Central Railway Station Stop Z4

Average Duration
49m
Estimated price
1-10
Contact phone
01733207860
Website
https://www.stagecoachbus.com/about/east

Bus from Bus Station to Central station

Average Duration
49m
Estimated price
1-5
Contact phone
01707 255764
Website
http://unobus.info

Bus from Bus Station to Central station

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
5-10
Train
Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253
Website
https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/

Train from Milton Keynes Central to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
45-472
Contact phone
03457 125 678
Website
https://www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/

Train from Kettering to Nottingham

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
5-10

Train from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
5-10
Contact phone
0345 026 4700
Website
https://www.thameslinkrailway.com/

Train from Bedford to Farringdon

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
5-10
Plane
Website
https://www.britishairways.com

Plane from London Heathrow (LHR) to Manchester (MAN)

Average Duration
1h 3m
Estimated price
38-471

Bedford to Manchester: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Bedford and Manchester offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Bedford to Manchester, covering a driving distance of 166 miles. Enjoy the scenic journey as you pass through charming villages and lush countryside along the way. 💸 Indulge in a budget-friendly travel experience with prices ranging from £39 to £63 for the car journey from Bedford to Manchester. Save on transportation costs and allocate more funds to explore the vibrant city of Manchester upon arrival. 🕒 Spend approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes on the road from Bedford to Manchester, making quick stops for snacks or to stretch your legs. Arrive in Manchester refreshed and ready to dive into the city's rich cultural offerings and exciting attractions.
Average price
£39 - £62
🚂 Traveling from Bedford to Manchester by train involves a journey with transfers at Kettering and Nottingham. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 16 minutes. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train between Bedford and Manchester typically range from £69 to £257, offering travelers different fare options based on their preferences and budget.
Departure Point
Kettering station
Arrival Point
Manchester Piccadilly station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your journey from Bedford to Manchester, you will likely be traveling with East Midlands Railway or Avanti West Coast. Both operators offer catering services onboard. East Midlands Railway provides a range of snacks and drinks that can be purchased from the onboard trolley service, while Avanti West Coast offers a more extensive menu including hot meals, sandwiches, and beverages via their food service. Don't forget to check your specific train's offerings since they may vary.
• When booking your ticket, consider the seating options available on East Midlands Railway and Avanti West Coast. East Midlands Railway typically offers Standard and First Class seating, where First Class includes more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments. Avanti West Coast provides Standard, First Class, and Business Class seats. First Class passengers enjoy wider seats, power sockets, and a selection of complimentary snacks and drinks. For a more comfortable travel experience, opting for First Class is advisable if budget allows.
• Upon arriving at Manchester Piccadilly station, expect a busy yet well-organized environment. If you need to store luggage, look for the left luggage facility where you can securely drop off your bags. Restrooms are easily accessible on the concourse level, though showers are not available. To reach the city center quickly, the fastest option is to take the Metrolink tram from Piccadilly station (the stop is adjacent to the main concourse) to St. Peter's Square, which connects to various city locations. Tram numbers 1 and 2 are particularly useful for central destinations.
✈️ Traveling from Bedford to Manchester by plane is a breeze with the quickest flight being a direct route from London Heathrow Airport to Manchester Airport. This efficient flight takes just 1 hour, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to reach their destination swiftly.
Departure Point
London Heathrow Airport
Arrival Point
Manchester Airport

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Bedford to Manchester.

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The distance between Bedford and Manchester is 193.1 km by air and 266.5 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes to reach Manchester from Bedford by train, 4 hours and 17 minutes by taking a train and then a flight, 2 hours and 50 minutes by car, and 5 hours and 11 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Bedford to Manchester would be by bus, with tickets costing around £28-£39. However, this mode of transportation takes the longest, with a travel time of 5 hours and 11 minutes. On the other hand, the fastest option would be to drive, with a travel time of 2 hours and 50 minutes, but it comes with a higher cost of £39-£63 for fuel and tolls.
The prices for a train ticket between Bedford and Manchester can vary from £58 to £150, depending on factors such as the time of booking and availability. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Manchester and Bedford range from £28 to £39.
To travel from Bedford to Manchester without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 267.2 km, and it takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes by car. The cost of fuel and tolls for this journey can range between £39 to £63, depending on the vehicle and current prices.
The best way to travel from Bedford to Manchester without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes and the ticket prices range from £55 to £157.
Yes, there is a link between Bedford and Manchester, but there are no direct train or bus services. The most efficient way to travel is by train, which takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes with transfers at Bletchley and Milton Keynes Central. Driving by car takes 2 hours and 50 minutes, and taking a combination of a train and a flight would take around 4 hours and 17 minutes. However, there is no direct bus route, and the journey by bus would take approximately 5 hours and 11 minutes with transfers at Milton Keynes Coachway.
The flight from London Heathrow Airport to Manchester Airport typically takes just 1 hour. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability, but on average, it can range anywhere from £50 to £200.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Manchester. With over 1539 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices start at £23 per night, making it possible to find affordable options for every traveler.

Trips from Bedford

Trips to Manchester