Find Manchester to London bus tickets
Why Choose Bus from Manchester to London
Traveling from Manchester to London offers several transportation options, each catering to different preferences and needs. Choosing the right mode of transportation can enhance your overall travel experience significantly.
💰 Cost-Effective Travel
pros
- Bus fares from Manchester to London can range from £22 to £31, making it a more affordable option compared to train tickets, which can be significantly higher.
- With direct buses departing every four hours, travelers can find economical travel times that fit their schedule without the premium pricing of flights.
cons
- Though cheap, travel by bus may require a longer commitment in terms of time compared to trains or flights.
🛎️ Convenient Departures and Arrivals
pros
- Buses to London depart from Shudehill Interchange, making it easily accessible for Manchester residents, with a direct arrival at Victoria Coach Station, which is centrally located in London.
- Frequent services throughout the day provide flexibility, allowing passengers to choose times that work best for them.
cons
- Contrary to train and flight services, bus travel can be subject to traffic conditions, potentially causing delays.
⭐ Comfort and Amenities
pros
- Modern bus services like Megabus and National Express equip their coaches with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi access, and power outlets, providing a pleasant journey.
- Passengers can enjoy scenic views along the 316 km route, making the journey enjoyable while traveling through picturesque landscapes.
cons
- While there are amenities available, the overall travel experience may not be as luxurious as first-class train service.
highlights:
Be aware that bus travel can take longer than alternative modes, requiring planning for the extended travel time.
Bus travel offers significant savings in comparison to other transport modes, particularly for budget-conscious travelers.
The convenience of direct routes from Manchester to central London simplifies travel logistics.
Passengers can experience a comfortable journey with modern amenities while enjoying beautiful scenery along the way.
Bus Options from Manchester to London
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct | Megabus UK | Shudehill Interchange, Manchester | Victoria Coach Station, London | 08:00, 12:00, 16:00, 20:00 | 13:10, 17:10, 21:10, 01:10 | Every 4 hours | 5h 10m | £ 22-31 | |
| Connecting | National Express | Manchester Coach Station, Manchester | Marble Arch Station Park Lane, London | 09:00, 14:00 | 14:05, 19:05 | Twice daily | 5h 5m | £ 22-31 | London |
| Connecting | National Express | Manchester Coach Station, Manchester | Marble Arch Station Park Lane, London | 10:00, 15:00 | 15:05, 20:05 | Twice daily | 5h 5m | £ 22-31 | London |
| Direct | FlixBus | Shudehill Interchange, Manchester | Finchley Road Station, London | 09:00, 13:00, 17:00 | 14:05, 18:05, 22:05 | Every 4 hours | 5h 5m | £ 22-31 | |
| Connecting | FlixBus | Shudehill Interchange, Manchester | Finchley Road Station, London | 11:00, 16:00 | 16:40, 21:40 | Twice daily | 5h 40m | £ 20-29 | London |
Comparison of Bus Operators from Manchester to London
When planning travel between Manchester and London, it's essential to compare various bus operators to ensure the best experience tailored to traveler needs. Key factors such as price, amenities, baggage policies, and accessibility should be considered in making an informed decision. There are a variety of operators servicing this busy route, and understanding their offerings can significantly enhance the travel experience.
| Criteria | Megabus UK | National Express | FlixBus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | £ 22 - £ 31 | £ 25 - £ 33 | £ 20 - £ 29 |
| pricing policies | |||
| refund policy | Non-refundable tickets unless canceled 24 hours in advance. | Refunds available if canceled 24 hours before departure. | Cancellation possible up to 15 minutes before departure. |
| Ticket Changes | Changes allowed up to 24 hours before departure for a fee. | Tickets can be changed before departure for a fee. | Changes permitted up to 15 minutes before departure with fees applicable. |
| discounts | Students and seniors receive a 10% discount. | Various discounts available for group bookings. | Discounts for travelers under 26 and seniors. |
| amenities | Free Wi-Fi, Power outlets, Restroom onboard | Comfortable seating, Free Wi-Fi, Onboard refreshments | Free Wi-Fi, Extra legroom, Onboard entertainment |
| baggage allowance | |||
| free allowance | One suitcase and one carry-on bag free of charge. | Two pieces of luggage up to 20kg each. | One large bag and one small bag free. |
| Additional Fees | Charges apply for additional bags at £5 each. | Oversized luggage incurs a £10 fee. | Extra baggage charge of £7. |
| accessibility | Wheelchair accessible with designated seating. | Fully accessible services with support at major stations. | Accessible buses with priority seating for disabled passengers. |
Each bus operator offers unique features catering to different traveler needs. Megabus UK is ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking basic amenities, while National Express offers more flexibility with luggage and additional comforts. FlixBus stands out for younger travelers with its competitive pricing and modern amenities. Depending on your preferences—be it price, comfort, or convenience—there's an option that will fit your travel style.
Bus Stops and Stations from Manchester to London
Knowing about the bus stops and stations when traveling between Manchester and London can enhance your travel experience and ensure a smooth journey.
Main Bus Stations in Manchester
Manchester Central Bus Station
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Local buses connecting various parts of Manchester
- Metro link to the surrounding areas
- Train services available from nearby Manchester Piccadilly Station
- Taxi and rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) available on-site
- Parking facilities for private vehicles
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
- Be aware of security procedures, including bag checks.
- Try to avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) to reduce crowding.
- If you have extra time, explore nearby amenities such as shops and restaurants in the Arndale Centre.
Main Bus Stations in London
Victoria Coach Station
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, restaurants)
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Multiple London bus routes connecting to various parts of the city
- Victoria Underground Station providing access to the Circle, District, and Victoria lines
- Mainline train services from Victoria Station
- Taxi and rideshare services readily available
- Short-stay and long-stay parking options nearby
- Aim to arrive at least 20 minutes before your bus scheduled arrival time.
- Familiarize yourself with security procedures as there might be checks.
- Avoid rush hour (8-10 AM and 4-6 PM) if possible for a smoother experience.
- If time allows, take a stroll around to see attractions like Buckingham Palace.
En Route Stops
Chester
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas
- Nearby food options (cafés and shops)
Birmingham
facilities
- Restrooms
- Food and drink vendors
- Seating areas
Coventry
facilities
- Basic restrooms
- Seating
- Access to local services
Understanding the facilities and transport links at both Manchester and London bus stations, along with planned stops along the route, can greatly improve your travel experience. Familiarize yourself with the bus stations to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Travel Tips
⛰ Book Early for Deals
Secure your tickets well in advance to take advantage of early bird discounts. Buses often have promotional fares, especially when booked a few weeks ahead. This is particularly relevant for travel during peak times, such as weekends and public holidays.
📍 Enjoy the Scenic Views
As you travel from Manchester to London, sit on the upper deck of the double-decker bus for better views. The route passes through scenic countryside, with beautiful landscapes and glimpses of iconic landmarks such as the Peak District. Don’t forget your camera!
🚍 Check for Onboard Amenities
Many buses on this route offer free Wi-Fi, charging ports, and refreshments. Before you travel, check the bus operator’s website for details on the amenities available. This can enhance your comfort and keep you connected throughout the journey.
🎭 Plan for Breaks and Transfer Points
Most bus operators stop at key transit points like Birmingham or Coventry. Use these breaks to stretch your legs, grab a snack, and take in some local sights. Timing your stops can also help you avoid long stretches of travel.
🏛 Stay Updated on Local Events
Research any local events or festivals happening in both Manchester and London that could affect travel. For example, large events might lead to higher demand for bus tickets or cause unexpected delays due to increased traffic.
FAQ
Trips from Manchester
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