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Glasgow, Glasgow to Manchester, Greater Manchester from $16: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Glasgow, United Kingdom
to
Manchester, United Kingdom

How to Get from Glasgow 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.

$16 RideshareBest price
296.2 kmDistance
3h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Glasgow 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
TransPennine Express Service
Train
Average Duration
3h  12m
Estimated price
$45-120
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
4h  13m
Estimated price
$16-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 296.2 km
Duration: 3h 12m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$30-45
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$45-120
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  11m
Estimated price
$50-210
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$51-250
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$69-250
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  35m
Estimated price
$70-110
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  13m
Estimated price
$75-273

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $13 $14 $13 $13 $14 $14 $14
Train $25 $20 $22 $22 $32 $28 $37

Traveling From Glasgow to Manchester

Traveling from Glasgow to Manchester offers a captivating transition from the vibrant, historic streets of Glasgow to the dynamic, modern atmosphere of Manchester.

Best Neighborhoods in Manchester

Manchester is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm.

Northern Quarter
• Trendy cafes and independent shops abound.
• Vibrant street art showcases local creativity.
Spinningfields
• Modern skyscrapers house top businesses and bars.
• Great spot for upscale dining experiences.
Chinatown
• Home to authentic Asian cuisine and markets.
• Colorful archway marks the vibrant cultural hub.

Best Times To Visit Manchester's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience at Manchester's highlights.

Manchester Art Gallery
Visit on weekdays during the morning for a quieter experience.
The Lowry
Weekday afternoons offer less crowded viewing of exhibitions.
Etihad Stadium
Tours are best in early mornings on non-match days for a relaxed tour.

Manchester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Manchester experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Typically, late spring and early autumn provide the most pleasant weather, enhancing your travel experience with comfortable conditions for exploring the city.

Dining Recommendation in Manchester

For a taste of Manchester, try the famous Manchester tart at a local café, which features a delightful combination of custard, jam, and coconut topped with a flaky crust. This dish showcases Manchester's creative approach to dessert, providing a lighter, more vibrant option compared to the hearty dishes often associated with Glasgow's culinary scene.

Glasgow - Manchester operators

Explore transport companies operating between Glasgow 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 Glasgow Central to Manchester Oxford Road

Average Duration
3h 12m
Estimated price
$45-120

Train from Glasgow Central to Lancaster

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$40-95

Train from Lancaster to Manchester Oxford Road

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$17-45

Train from Liverpool South Parkway to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$13-35
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Manchester Shudehill Interchange

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$22-35

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Edinburgh Airport Arrivals Terminal

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$11-16
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Glasgow to Manchester

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$30-45
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk

Rideshare from Glasgow to Manchester

Average Duration
4h 13m
Estimated price
$16-45
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.britishairways.com

Plane from Glasgow Airport (GLA) to Manchester Airport (MAN)

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$180-650
Website
https://www.easyjet.com

Plane from Glasgow Airport (GLA) to Manchester Airport (MAN)

Average Duration
3h 17m
Estimated price
$70-310
Website
https://www.ryanair.com

Plane from Glasgow Airport (GLA) to Manchester Airport (MAN)

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$30-250
Website
https://www.aerlingus.com

Plane from Glasgow Airport (GLA) to Manchester Airport (MAN)

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$180-650

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

Traveling between Glasgow 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 journey from Glasgow to Manchester, spanning 218 miles of picturesque landscapes and charming towns. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you make your way south. 💰 Prices for the drive from Glasgow to Manchester range from £55 to £87, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking an affordable and convenient way to reach their destination. Compare rates and choose the best deal for your trip.
Average price
£54 - £85
🚆 Traveling by train from Glasgow to Manchester is a convenient option with direct services departing from Glasgow Central and arriving at Manchester Oxford Road. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes, with trains operating five times a day. 🛤️ The Glasgow to Manchester route is serviced by TransPennine Express trains, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient travel experience. Prices for the journey can vary between £36 to £95, making it an affordable choice for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Manchester.
Departure Point
Glasgow Central station
Arrival Point
Manchester Oxford Road station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your trip from Glasgow to Manchester typically include a catering service on Avanti West Coast trains. You can expect a range of snacks, light meals, and beverages available for purchase. There are also options for vegetarian and vegan diets. Be sure to check the onboard menu available in your seat pocket.
• The train operators for your journey include Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express. Avanti West Coast offers First Class and Standard Class seating, while TransPennine Express provides First Class and Standard Class as well. In First Class, you’ll enjoy more spacious seating and complimentary drinks; Standard Class is budget-friendly but still comfortable. Visit their websites for more information: avantiwestcoast.co.uk and tpexpress.co.uk
• Upon arriving at Manchester Piccadilly Station, be aware that there are luggage storage services available for a fee. The station also features clean restroom facilities, but there are no showers. To navigate to the city center quickly, head to the public transport hub located directly outside the station. The fastest way is by tram; take the Metrolink's City Line towards When you're at the station, look for tram services towards 'Ashton-under-Lyne' or 'East Didsbury', which will take you to the heart of the city in about 10-15 minutes.
🛫 Enjoy a convenient flight from Glasgow Airport to Manchester Airport, although there are no direct flights available. The quickest option with one stopover takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes with airlines such as Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and easyJet. 🌍 Traveling from Glasgow to Manchester by air offers a smooth journey lasting around 3 hours and 20 minutes. Multiple airlines provide flights on this route, giving you flexibility in choosing your preferred departure times and carriers. 💸 Flight prices between Manchester and Glasgow range from £55 to £197, depending on factors such as timing, availability, and airline choice. Plan your trip ahead to secure the best deals and experience a hassle-free travel experience between these two vibrant UK cities.
Departure Point
Glasgow Airport
Arrival Point
Manchester Airport. The quickest flight takes 2h 40m and has one stopover
🚌 Traveling from Glasgow to Manchester by bus is a convenient option, with direct services departing twice daily from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Manchester Shudehill Interchange. The journey typically takes around 5 hours, offering a comfortable and scenic ride through the UK. 🚌 The prices for the bus tickets between Manchester and Glasgow vary between £24 to £36, making it an affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers. With reliable services operated by Megabus UK, passengers can enjoy a hassle-free journey with amenities onboard to enhance their travel experience. 🚌 For those looking to explore different routes, options include traveling via Cardiff, London Victoria, or Birmingham. Each route offers a unique travel experience, ranging from 3 hours 55 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes, allowing passengers to choose the best itinerary based on their preferences and schedule.
Departure Point
Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station
Arrival Point
Manchester Shudehill Interchange station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance with Megabus UK or FlixBus to secure the best price, as fares can vary from £23 to £34 depending on demand and time of booking. For tickets, visit Megabus UK at megabus.com or FlixBus at global.flixbus.com
• During your journey from Glasgow to Manchester, plan for a few stops along the way and take the opportunity to stretch your legs during breaks, typically scheduled after about 2 hours of travel.
• Upon arrival at Manchester Shudehill Interchange, familiarize yourself with the terminal layout; key facilities like ticket counters and restrooms are available on the ground floor, while the bus departure points are clearly marked, making it easy to navigate. You can find a station map here: transportforgreatermanchester.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Glasgow to Manchester.

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The cheapest way to travel from Glasgow to Manchester is by ridesharing. This option typically costs between £12 to £32 and takes approximately 4 hours and 13 minutes. Ridesharing allows you to share the cost of the journey with other passengers, making it a more budget-friendly choice compared to other modes of transportation such as trains or flights.
The fastest way to travel from Glasgow to Manchester is by train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, depending on the specific train. Train tickets can range in price from £80 to £191, depending on the class and availability. It is advisable to book your train tickets in advance to secure the best fares and seating options.
It is approximately 184 miles from Glasgow to Manchester. The distance can be covered by various modes of transportation such as driving, flying, or taking a train. If you choose to drive, the distance will be around 217.5 miles. However, the actual travel time will depend on factors such as traffic conditions and the route you take.
The best way to travel from Glasgow to Manchester without a car is by taking a train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, and tickets cost between £80 and £191. Make sure to check the train schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure availability and potentially secure better prices. Alternative options like buses or flights may also be available, but the train is generally the most convenient and direct mode of transportation for this route.
The journey from Glasgow to Manchester by train takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, including transfers. There are three train departures from Glasgow Central to Manchester Oxford Road each day. It is advised to check the train schedules beforehand to plan your journey accordingly.
The best way to travel from Glasgow to Manchester is by train, which takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes and costs between £80 and £191. Another option is taking a bus, which takes around 4 hours and 50 minutes and costs between £21 and £44. Additionally, you can fly from Glasgow to Manchester, which takes about 4 hours and 24 minutes and costs between £28 and £167. These options offer different travel times and prices, so choose the one that suits your preferences and budget best.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Manchester. With over 1539 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a wide range of options to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Manchester start at £23, offering affordable choices for visitors. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can share a ride from Glasgow to Manchester. Blablacar offers a carpooling service that connects drivers with passengers looking to share a ride between the two cities. It's a convenient option if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transportation. Simply sign up on the Blablacar website or app, browse available rides, and book a seat in a shared car. Prices for rideshare options typically range from £12 to £32, and the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 13 minutes.
Yes, you can drive from Glasgow to Manchester. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 218 miles. It usually takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes to drive from Glasgow to Manchester, depending on traffic conditions. However, it is advisable to check for any road closures, diversions or traffic updates before starting your journey.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Glasgow and Manchester. The bus departs from Buchanan Bus Station and arrives at Shudehill Interchange. The bus service operates four times a day, every day. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes.
To catch the bus from Glasgow to Manchester you will need to go to Buchanan Bus Station. This is the main bus station in Glasgow and is located in the city center. From there, you can board the Megabus UK service that operates between Glasgow and Manchester. The buses are comfortable and offer affordable fares for this journey. Make sure to check the bus schedule and book your ticket in advance to secure your seat.
The Glasgow to Manchester bus services operated by Megabus UK arrive at Shudehill Interchange station in Manchester. Shudehill Interchange is a major transport hub in the city center, conveniently located near various attractions and amenities. Upon arrival, travelers can easily access local transportation options or explore the nearby shopping and dining options.
To get to Manchester from Glasgow Airport, you can take a direct flight which takes around 1 hour. Major airlines such as British Airways, Flybe, and Ryanair operate flights between these two cities. Alternatively, you can take a train from Glasgow Central station to Manchester Piccadilly station which takes around 3 hours and offers picturesque views along the way. Buses are also available, with a journey time of approximately 4 hours.
Several airlines offer flights between Glasgow and Manchester. Lufthansa, Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and three other airlines operate flights from Glasgow Airport to Manchester Airport. Passengers have a variety of options to choose from, ensuring convenience and flexibility in their travel plans.
The fastest way to travel from Glasgow to Manchester by plane is by taking a flight. However, there are no direct flights available. The quickest flight option includes one stopover and takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Several airlines, such as Lufthansa, Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and others, operate flights between Glasgow Airport and Manchester Airport. The flight duration between the two cities is around 4 hours and 24 minutes. Flight prices can range from £31 to £164 depending on the airline and time of booking.
The flight from Glasgow to Manchester does not have any direct options. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. However, the total duration of the flight may vary depending on the layover time and the airline chosen. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare their schedules to find the best option for your travel needs.
Trains from Glasgow to Manchester, operated by TransPennine Express Services, arrive at Manchester Oxford Road station. This is one of the main railway stations in Manchester city center and offers easy access to nearby attractions and accommodations. It is advised to check the train schedule and platform information before your journey to ensure a smooth arrival at Manchester Oxford Road station.
Yes, there is a direct train between Glasgow and Manchester. The train departs from Glasgow Central station and arrives at Manchester Oxford Road station. This service operates three times a day, seven days a week. The journey duration is approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes.
The Glasgow to Manchester train departs from Glasgow Central station. Glasgow Central is a major railway station located in the city center of Glasgow. The station is well-connected and easily accessible by public transport. Passengers can catch the TransPennine Express Service from Glasgow Central to reach Manchester. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and offers a comfortable and convenient travel option between the two cities.
The cost of a flight from Glasgow to Manchester ranges from £31 to £164. The price can vary depending on the airline, the time of booking, and the availability of seats. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal. Additionally, keep an eye out for any promotional offers or discounts that may be available.
The cost of a train ticket from Glasgow to Manchester can range from £80 to £191, depending on the class of travel and the time of booking. It is recommended to book in advance or consider purchasing an off-peak ticket to get the best possible price. Additionally, some railcards or discounts may be available for certain travelers, such as students or seniors, which can further reduce the cost of the train journey.
The cost of a bus ticket from Glasgow to Manchester can range from £21 to £44. Prices vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and availability of tickets. It is recommended to book your bus ticket in advance to secure the best prices and avoid any last-minute surcharges. Be sure to check different bus operators and compare prices to find the most affordable option for your journey.
The cost to drive from Glasgow to Manchester ranges from £56 to £88, depending on factors such as fuel prices and the type of vehicle you have. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the journey. It is important to consider any additional expenses such as tolls or parking fees that may apply during the trip.

Trips from Glasgow

Trips to Manchester