Durham to Manchester from $16: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$16 by busBest price

151.28 kmDistance

2h 10m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Durham 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.

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Type	Mo 06/01	Tu 07/01	We 08/01	Th 09/01	Fr 10/01	Sa 11/01	Su 12/01
Bus	$14	$13	$13	$18	$13	$13	$15
Train	$63	$26	$26	$26	$26	$26	$26

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Traveling From Durham to Manchester

The journey from Durham, with its tranquil charm and historic architecture, to Manchester, a bustling hub of culture and innovation, offers travelers a glimpse into two distinct sides of Northern England.

Best Neighbourhoods in Manchester

Manchester boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Northern Quarter

• Known for its independent shops and street art.

• A hub for live music and trendy bars.

Deansgate

• Features high-end restaurants and luxury hotels.

• Hosts iconic landmarks like Manchester Cathedral.

Spinningfields

• A modern area with sleek skyscrapers and shops.

• Offers a thriving social scene with outdoor events.

Best Times To Visit Manchester's Attractions

Strategizing your visit can enhance your experience at Manchester's popular spots.

Manchester Museum

Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter, more immersive experience.

Whitworth Art Gallery

Early afternoons on weekdays offer fewer crowds and a relaxed atmosphere.

John Rylands Library

Late afternoons weekdays provide a peaceful environment to enjoy this stunning library.

Manchester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Manchester experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters, with rainfall spread throughout the year. Visiting during late spring or early autumn often offers the most pleasant weather, allowing you to enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions without the hassle of heavy showers.

Dining Recommendation in Manchester

Try a plate of street-style Indian curry at Dishoom, where the vibrant atmosphere and bold flavors reflect Manchester's multicultural essence, setting it apart from Durham’s traditional fare. The use of locally-sourced spices and fresh ingredients creates a culinary experience that introduces you to new taste profiles and lively dining culture.

Durham - Manchester operators

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

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+44 345 600 1671

Website

https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/

Train from Durham to Manchester Victoria

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$30-80

Bus Show bus routes

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from University - Palatine Centre to Shudehill Interchange

Average Duration

3h 5m

Estimated price

$16-23

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

Traveling between Durham 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 scenic road trip from Durham to Manchester, covering a driving distance of 204.4 km. 💰 Explore the flexible pricing options ranging from £32 to £47 for the journey by car from Durham to Manchester. 🌇 Arrive in vibrant Manchester after approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes of driving.

Average price

£31 - £47

🌄 The scenic route takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes, offering travelers a comfortable and efficient means of transportation between these two cities in the United Kingdom. 💷 Ticket prices for the Durham to Manchester train vary between £24 to £63, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking to explore Manchester from Durham by rail.

Departure Point

Durham station

Arrival Point

Manchester Victoria station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your journey from Durham to Manchester, you’ll likely be traveling with either LNER (London North Eastern Railway) or TransPennine Express. LNER offers a range of catering services including complimentary light snacks and drinks in First Class, while onboard cafes are available in Standard Class. TransPennine Express features a 'Fill Your Own' buffet car where you can purchase items such as sandwiches, drinks, and snacks.

• The trains on this route typically offer three seating options: Standard Class, First Class, and the Business Standard option on TransPennine Express. Standard Class is the most economical with basic seating, while First Class provides more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages. If you're looking for a more relaxed environment to work or read, consider upgrading to First Class, especially for longer trips.

• Upon arriving at Manchester Piccadilly, be aware that there are luggage storage services available, allowing you to explore the city hands-free. Look for the ‘Left Luggage’ service, which can be found near the information desk. Additionally, restrooms are located throughout the station. For the fastest way to reach the city center, take the MetroLink tram from the station; the tram stops at nearby Piccadilly Gardens and Market Street. Lines 2 and 3 will get you there in about 10 minutes.

🚌 The journey from Durham to Manchester by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes, with a direct service departing once daily. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable ride operated by Megabus UK from University - Palatine Centre to Shudehill Interchange. 🚌 Prices for the bus journey from Manchester to Durham range from £13 to £18, offering a cost-effective way to travel between these vibrant destinations in the United Kingdom.

Departure Point

University - Palatine Centre station

Arrival Point

Shudehill Interchange station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Book your ticket in advance on the Megabus UK website to secure the best fare between £12 - £18 and avoid last-minute price hikes: megabus.com

• Arrive at Durham University's Palatine Centre at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process, as the bus departs once daily and punctuality is crucial.

• Upon arriving at Shudehill Interchange in Manchester, familiarize yourself with the local transport options; the tram station is just a short walk away, and you can check the Metrolink maps here: tfgm.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Durham to Manchester.

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The distance between Durham and Manchester is approximately 151.3 km, with a road distance of 205.0 km. By train, the typical travel time from Durham to Manchester is 2 hours and 11 minutes. On the other hand, by car, it takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes to travel from Manchester to Durham.

The prices of train tickets between Durham and Manchester can vary depending on the time and class of travel. On average, prices range from £51 to £118.

To travel from Durham to Manchester without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 204.4 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 12 minutes to drive the route. The cost of the journey by car can vary between £31 and £47, considering factors such as fuel prices and tolls.

The best way to travel from Durham to Manchester without a car is by train, which takes approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes. The train journey offers a convenient and comfortable option, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic view. The cost of the train ticket ranges from £51 to £118, depending on the class and time of travel.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Durham and Manchester. The train service, operated by TransPennine Express, departs from Durham station and arrives at Manchester Victoria station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes, with trains departing hourly throughout the day.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Manchester with over 1539 hotels to choose from. Prices start at £23 per night, making it suitable for a range of budgets.