London to Oldham from $27: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• Onboard Services: When traveling from London to Oldham, you'll typically use Avanti West Coast or TransPennine Express. Avanti West Coast provides a complimentary food service in First Class, with a selection of snacks and beverages. In Standard Class, there are catering services available, including a trolley service with snacks and hot drinks for purchase. TransPennine Express offers a Coach Service where you can purchase food and drinks at your seat, although pre-purchased online snacks may also be an option.

• Seating Options: Both Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express offer a variety of seating options. Avanti West Coast has First Class, which includes more space, complimentary food and drink, and quieter carriages. Their Standard Class is comfortable and provides adequate legroom. TransPennine Express features Standard Class and First Class as well, with First Class offering complimentary refreshments and extra comfort. Make sure to reserve your seats in advance for the best experience.

• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arrival in Oldham, you'll find Oldham's transport hub well signposted. While there's no left luggage at the station, you can use public restrooms located adjacent to the waiting area. To navigate out of the station towards the city center, it’s straightforward; follow the signs for the bus station. Expect buses to depart frequently, with routes like the 81 and 83 taking you directly to the heart of Oldham.

• To ensure a smooth transfer from the Megabus to the local bus in Manchester, familiarize yourself with the Shudehill Interchange layout beforehand; stands are clearly marked, but it's best to know where to head once you arrive. You can view the station map here: tfgm.com

• Bring snacks and drinks for your journey, as the bus ride from London to Manchester lasts over four hours; while you can purchase refreshments on the bus, options may be limited. If you're hungry before your trip, you can find dining options near Victoria Coach Station at victoriaparklondon.com

• Upon arrival at Oldham bus station, be mindful of local transport options; the station is quite central and well connected, making it easy to find taxi ranks or bus connections to various locations within Oldham. You can check local bus routes here: firstbus.co.uk