1map logoGo to main page

Manchester to Inverness from $56: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Manchester, United Kingdom
to
Inverness, United Kingdom

How to Get from Manchester to Inverness: 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.

$56 by busBest price
465 kmDistance
3h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Manchester to Inverness 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
Loganair, Aer Lingus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  2m
Estimated price
$126-365
Recommended
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
9h  24m
Estimated price
$56-78
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 465 km
Duration: 3h 2m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
9h  36m
Estimated price
$94-186
Company
TransPennine Express Service, First ScotRail Service
Train
Average Duration
7h  45m
Estimated price
$104-286
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
$105-334
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$120-180
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  57m
Estimated price
$192-274

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $26 $24 $26 $30 $30 $27 $27
Train $112 $124 $117 $170 $133 $54 $79
Fly $168 $133 $154 $147 $138 $161 $150

Traveling From Manchester to Inverness

Traveling from Manchester to Inverness offers you a fascinating shift from the vibrant urban life and cultural diversity of a bustling city to the tranquil beauty of Scotland's highlands, where stunning landscapes and rich history await.

Best Neighbourhoods in Inverness

Inverness boasts several charming neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience.

City Centre
• Bustling with shops and restaurants.
• Close to historical landmarks like Inverness Castle.
Inverness East
• Scenic views along the River Ness.
• Peaceful residential area with local parks.
Culduthel
• Family-friendly with spacious homes.
• Access to walking trails and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Inverness's Attractions

Timing your visit to Inverness's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Inverness Castle
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Loch Ness
Explore during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience by the loch.
Culloden Battlefield
Late spring or early autumn offers milder weather and fewer tourists.

Inverness Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Inverness enjoys a temperate maritime climate, characterized by cool summers and mild winters, with rain occurring throughout the year. While late spring and early autumn are ideal for pleasant weather, it’s wise to prepare for occasional showers, which can add a refreshing touch to your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Inverness

Try the Cullen Skink at The Kitchen Brasserie, a local favorite that features a rich and smoky smoked haddock soup, distinctly different from the culinary offerings in Manchester. The cozy atmosphere and focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients create an intimate dining experience that complements the highland charm.

Manchester - Inverness operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
loganair.co.uk

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Inverness (INV)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$130-550

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Aberdeen (ABZ)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$120-370
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671
Website
tpexpress.co.uk

Train from Manchester Oxford Road to Haymarket

Average Duration
3h 7m
Estimated price
$45-120

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston

Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$13-35
Contact phone
+44 344 811 0141
Website
scotrail.co.uk

Train from Haymarket to Inverness

Average Duration
3h 38m
Estimated price
$55-130
Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333
Website
lner.co.uk

Train from Haymarket to Inverness

Average Duration
3h 26m
Estimated price
$110-170

Train from Newcastle to Inverness

Average Duration
5h 11m
Estimated price
$160-230
Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253
Website
avantiwestcoast.co.uk

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston

Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$14-80
Website
sleeper.scot

Train from Preston to Inverness

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
$85-110
Bus Show bus routes
Website
uk.megabus.com

Bus from Manchester Shudehill Interchange to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$22-35

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Inverness Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 38m
Estimated price
$19-26
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Manchester to Glasgow

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$30-45

Bus from Glasgow to Inverness

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$24-35
Contact phone
08717 81 81 81
Website
nationalexpress.com

Bus from Manchester Central Coach Station to Newcastle upon Tyne, St James Boulevard

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$30-45

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

Traveling between Manchester and Inverness 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 Manchester to Inverness spanning a distance of 592.2 km. Enjoy the scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes of the UK countryside. 💷 Explore cost-effective travel options with prices ranging from £95 to £142 for the journey by car from Manchester to Inverness. ⏱️ Set aside around 6 hours and 20 minutes for the drive from Manchester to Inverness. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and prepare for an unforgettable travel experience through the heart of Scotland.
Average price
£93 - £140
Although there's no direct service, you can catch a train from Manchester Oxford Road and transfer at Haymarket for a total travel time of approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes. 💷 Ticket prices for the Manchester to Inverness train range from £82 to £226, providing flexible options to suit your budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Manchester Oxford Road station
Arrival Point
Inverness station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the train route from Manchester to Inverness, you will generally be traveling with Avanti West Coast or ScotRail, depending on the specific service you choose. Onboard catering services are available, including a food and beverage menu with options like sandwiches, pastries, hot drinks, and alcoholic beverages. Make sure to check the menu as they may vary on different services.
• For seating options, Avanti West Coast offers Standard Class, First Class, and an upgraded Business Class known as First Class. Standard Class is comfortable with ample legroom, while First Class provides complimentary snacks and drinks, larger seats, and quieter carriages, making it a preferred choice for a more luxurious experience. Check their websites for seating plans: Avanti West Coast and ScotRail.
• Upon arrival at Inverness train station, you can expect to find luggage lockers available for short-term storage, which is ideal if you want to explore the city without your bags. The station also has clean restrooms but no showers available. To reach the city center quickly, you can take the Stagecoach bus number 2 from the bus stop directly outside the station, which runs every 10-15 minutes.
🛫 Flying from Manchester to Inverness is quick and convenient, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 30 minutes. Both Aer Lingus and Loganair operate flights on this route. 🏞️ Enjoy the beautiful aerial views during the 3-hour journey from Manchester to Inverness. 💸 Flight prices from Manchester to Inverness typically range from £100 to £288, providing options for different budgets.
Departure Point
Manchester Airport
Arrival Point
Inverness Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with either Aer Lingus or Loganair, as they both offer direct flights from Manchester to Inverness, ensuring a quick 1h 30m journey with fewer hassles; compare prices on their respective websites for the best deals: Aer Lingus and Loganair.
• Upon arrival at Inverness Airport, expect a small but efficient airport setup; the arrivals area has clear signs and is manageable, so you can easily find your way to the taxi stands, which are located directly outside the terminal.
• For a quick and convenient transfer, a taxi from Inverness Airport to the city center will cost approximately £15-£20, depending on traffic and the exact location you are headed to—ensure you have cash ready as not all taxis accept card payments.
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Manchester to Inverness station, travelers can take a service from Manchester Shudehill Interchange to Inverness Bus Station with a transfer at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. 🌄 The scenic journey from Manchester to Inverness by bus takes approximately 9 hours and 24 minutes, including transfers. 💸 Fares for the bus between Inverness and Manchester typically range from £44 to £62, offering an affordable and convenient travel option for those exploring the beautiful Scottish Highlands.
Departure Point
Manchester Shudehill Interchange station
Arrival Point
Inverness Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your tickets in advance with operators like Megabus UK (megabus.com), National Express (nationalexpress.com), or ScotRail (for potential train alternatives between bus transfers) to secure the best fares, typically ranging from £43 to £59.
• During your transfer at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station, take advantage of the waiting period to grab a bite; head to nearby options like Cafe Express or Pret a Manger, which are located within the bus station for a quick meal before continuing your journey.
• Upon arrival at Inverness Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the layout by checking the provided maps at the station; it's strategically located near the city center, providing easy access to local transport including taxis and city buses, ensuring a smooth transition to your final destination.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Manchester to Inverness.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Manchester and Inverness is 465.1 km by road. Traveling by train from Manchester to Inverness takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes. Alternatively, it takes around 4 hours and 2 minutes to reach Inverness by plane. Traveling in the opposite direction, by car, it takes about 6 hours and 20 minutes to get from Inverness to Manchester. Lastly, taking a bus from Manchester to Inverness takes around 8 hours and 59 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Manchester to Inverness is by bus, which takes 8h 59m and costs £39-£86. Although it is the cheapest option, it is the longest in terms of travel time. Alternatively, the fastest way to reach Inverness from Manchester is by flying, which takes 4h 2m and costs £79-£244.
The prices for a train journey between Manchester and Inverness range from £127 to £310, depending on factors such as the class of travel, time of booking, and availability of discounts. On the other hand, bus fares between Inverness and Manchester can vary between £41 and £83.
To travel from Manchester to Inverness without using public transportation, one option is to drive. The distance by car is approximately 592.2 km, and it usually takes around 6 hours and 20 minutes. The prices for car rentals vary, but typically range between £94 and £142.
The best way to travel from Manchester to Inverness without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes and can cost between £126 and £315. Another option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 2 minutes with prices ranging from £79 to £244. Alternatively, you can also take a bus, which takes approximately 8 hours and 59 minutes and costs between £39 and £86.
No, there is no direct link between Manchester and Inverness. The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by train, which takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes with transfers at Haymarket. Alternatively, you can take a combination of train and flight, which takes around 5 hours and 42 minutes, or by plane, which takes about 4 hours and 2 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the journey takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes, while the bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 59 minutes with transfers at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station.
The flight between Manchester and Inverness typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, ranging from £79 to £237.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Inverness. With 927+ hotels available, you can find something to fit your budget and preferences. Prices start at £20, offering a range of choices from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations.

Trips from Manchester

Trips to Amsterdam