Luton (Bedfordshire) to Manchester

from $30: ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Luton (Bedfordshire) 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.

Train

3h 12m

$69-127

Bus

6h 43m

Cheapest

$30-43

Drive

2h 54m

Fastest

$55-80

Plane

4h 34m

$41-248

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Traveling From Luton (Bedfordshire) to Manchester

Traveling from Luton to Manchester offers a journey from the tranquil charm of Bedfordshire to the vibrant energy of a bustling northern city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Manchester

Manchester boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character.

Northern Quarter

• Renowned for its eclectic arts scene.

• Packed with independent shops and cafes.

Castlefield

• Features scenic canal walks and historic sites.

• Great for outdoor dining and nightlife.

Didsbury

• Charming village atmosphere with community vibes.

• Home to lush parks and trendy eateries.

Best Times To Visit Manchester's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Manchester by timing your visits perfectly.

Manchester Art Gallery

Visit on weekdays in the early morning for a quiet exploration.

Science and Industry Museum

Plan your visit during mid-afternoon on weekdays for fewer crowds.

Etihad Stadium

Book weekend tours early in the morning to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Manchester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Manchester experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool, wet winters. While spring and early autumn offer the best chances for pleasant weather, be prepared for rain throughout the year, as it can affect outdoor activities and your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Manchester

You must try the trendy 'Rudy's Neapolitan Pizza,' known for its authentic, wood-fired pies made with high-quality ingredients that reflect Italian culinary traditions. Unlike the more traditional fare you might find in Luton, dining in Manchester at Rudy’s offers a vibrant atmosphere and a depth of flavors that showcase a fusion of local and international influences.

How to Get from Luton (Bedfordshire) 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.

by busBest price

346 kmDistance

2h 54mFastest

Luton (Bedfordshire) - Manchester operators

Explore transport companies operating between Luton (Bedfordshire) and Manchester, with prices starting at $30. These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train

Contact phone

0345 026 4700

Website

https://www.thameslinkrailway.com/

Train from Luton to London St Pancras Intl

Average Duration

36m

Estimated price

$19-40

Train from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration

2h 12m

Estimated price

$85-220

Contact phone

03457 125 678

Website

https://www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/

Train from Luton to London St Pancras Intl

Average Duration

26m

Estimated price

$12-27

Train from Luton to Kettering

Average Duration

35m

Estimated price

$17-35

Train from Kettering to Nottingham

Average Duration

58m

Estimated price

$22-40

Train from Nottingham to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration

1h 50m

Estimated price

$30-55

Contact phone

00 44 345 528 0253

Website

https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/

Train from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration

2h 12m

Estimated price

$85-220

Contact phone

+44 345 600 1671

Website

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

Train from Liverpool South Parkway to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration

41m

Estimated price

$13-35

Contact phone

+44 800 200 6060

Website

https://www.northernrailway.co.uk/

Train from Liverpool South Parkway to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration

45m

Estimated price

$8-11

Bus

Website

Bus from Luton Station Interchange to Finchley Road Station

Average Duration

1h 8m

Estimated price

$0-0

Contact phone

0344 800 44 11

Website

https://www.arrivabus.co.uk/

Bus from Luton Station Interchange to London Finchley Road

Average Duration

1h 4m

Estimated price

$2-15

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Finchley Road Station to Shudehill Interchange

Average Duration

4h 35m

Estimated price

$20-28

Contact phone

+49 30 300 137 300

Website

https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from London Finchley Road to Manchester

Average Duration

4h 50m

Estimated price

$27-40

Plane

Website

easyjet.com

Plane from London Luton (LTN) to Manchester (MAN)

Average Duration

Estimated price

$70-310

Website

britishairways.com

Plane from London Heathrow to Manchester

Average Duration

1h 1m

Estimated price

$55-330

Website

ryanair.com

Plane from London Luton to Manchester

Average Duration

3h 41m

Estimated price

$35-340

Luton (Bedfordshire) to Manchester: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Luton (Bedfordshire) 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 Luton to Manchester, covering a distance of 169 miles through the picturesque English countryside. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of choosing from a range of prices to make the journey, with costs typically ranging between £43 to £63 for the travel by car. 🌆 Arrive in vibrant Manchester after approximately 2 hours and 54 minutes of driving, ready to explore this dynamic city known for its rich industrial heritage and lively cultural scene.

Average price

£43 - £62

🎫 The total duration of the trip, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes. Trains operated by Thameslink depart from Luton station, while Avanti West Coast services arrive at Manchester Piccadilly station. 🌆 Enjoy the convenience of railway travel as you make your way from Luton to the vibrant city of Manchester. Ticket prices for this journey typically range from £78 to £207.

Departure Point

Luton station

Arrival Point

Manchester Piccadilly station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your train trip from Luton to Manchester, you will likely be traveling with East Midlands Railway or Avanti West Coast. East Midlands Railway usually offers a catering service through onboard food and beverage trolleys, serving snacks, drinks, and light meals. Avanti West Coast, on the other hand, provides a more extensive menu that includes hot meals, sandwiches, and refreshments available from their onboard cafe services.

• For seating options, East Midlands Railway typically offers Standard Class, which is quite comfortable for the journey, and First Class for those looking for extra space and amenities. Avanti West Coast provides Standard Class, First Class, and a Business Class option known as 'Standard Premium'. In First Class, you can expect larger seats, complimentary refreshments, and a quieter environment compared to Standard Class.

• Upon arriving at Manchester Piccadilly, be prepared for a large and busy station. There are luggage storage services available for a fee if you wish to leave your bags while exploring the city. Additionally, restrooms are present within the station, but showers are not available. To get to the city center quickly, the fastest option is to take the tram from the Piccadilly Gardens stop— Tram line 1 or 2 will take you to the city center in just a few minutes. For easily navigating your route, refer to the Metrolink website: gmpte.com

🛫 Experience a convenient and swift journey from Luton to Manchester with a quick 1-hour direct flight from London Heathrow Airport. 💸 Enjoy budget-friendly options with flight prices ranging from £32 to £196, making air travel between Manchester and Luton accessible for a range of travelers.

Departure Point

London Heathrow Airport

Arrival Point

Manchester Airport

🚌 Although there is no direct bus route from Luton to Manchester, travelers can opt for services departing from Luton Station Interchange and transferring at Finchley Road Station. The journey, with transfers, lasts around 6 hours and 43 minutes. 🚌 Travelers considering the bus route between Luton and Manchester should expect to pay between £24 to £34 for the trip. Despite the lack of a direct service, the journey provides an affordable and scenic way to travel between these two UK cities.

Departure Point

Luton Station Interchange

Arrival Point

Shudehill Interchange station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Luton (Bedfordshire) to Manchester.

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The distance between Luton and Manchester is approximately 135 miles. By car, it typically takes around 3 hours and 16 minutes to reach Manchester from Luton. However, if you prefer to take a train, the travel time is about 3 hours and 52 minutes, with a transfer at London Heathrow. For those who prefer flying, the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 34 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Luton to Manchester is taking the night bus, which costs between £24-£39 and takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way would be to drive, which takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes and costs between £43-£63. Both options provide convenient transportation between the two cities, allowing travelers to choose according to their budget and time constraints.

The prices for a train ticket from Luton to Manchester can range from £76 to £228. On the other hand, taking a bus from Manchester to Luton can cost anywhere between £24 and £39. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and booking in advance.

To travel from Luton to Manchester without using public transportation, your best option is to drive. The driving distance between Luton and Manchester is approximately 169 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes to reach Manchester by car. The prices for renting a car and driving from Luton to Manchester can vary, ranging from £43 to £63. This option allows you the flexibility to plan your own schedule and enjoy the scenic journey.

To travel from Luton to Manchester without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes and costs £75-£235. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 4 hours and 51 minutes and costs £35-£55. Alternatively, you could fly, which takes 4 hours and 34 minutes and costs £31-£188.

Yes, there is a connection between Luton and Manchester, but it is not a direct link. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes with a transfer at London Euston. The bus journey, on the other hand, takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes with an overnight option available. Both options provide convenient ways to travel between the two cities.

The flight between Luton and Manchester typically takes around 1 hour, with a direct flight from London Heathrow Airport to Manchester Airport being the quickest option. The prices for a flight between the two cities can vary, ranging from £33 to £186. It's advisable to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals and compare prices for your preferred travel dates.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Manchester. There are currently 1539+ hotels available in the area, offering a wide range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels start as low as £23 per night, ensuring there is something for every budget. It is recommended to use online hotel booking platforms to compare and find the best deals according to personal needs and preferences.

Luton (Bedfordshire) to Manchester

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

How to Get from Luton (Bedfordshire) to Manchester: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Luton (Bedfordshire) - Manchester operators

Luton (Bedfordshire) to Manchester: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Useful tips for train travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Luton (Bedfordshire)

Trips to Manchester

Popular routes