Manchester, Greater Manchester to Bournemouth, Dorset from $42: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Manchester to Bournemouth: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$42 - Bus, trainBest price

309.8 kmDistance

4h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Manchester to Bournemouth 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.

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Type	Mo 10/03	Tu 11/03	We 12/03	Th 13/03	Fr 14/03	Sa 15/03	Su 16/03
Bus	$21	$32	$29	$25	$37	$35	$38
Train	$73	$87	$169	$78	$73	$82	$93

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Traveling From Manchester to Bournemouth

Embarking on your journey from Manchester to Bournemouth offers a striking change of scenery, where the bustling urban energy of Manchester transforms into the relaxed coastal charm of Bournemouth.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bournemouth

Bournemouth boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Westbourne

• Trendy boutiques and cafes line the streets.

• Close to the stunning Bournemouth beach.

Boscombe

• Vibrant surf culture and artistic scene.

• Home to the famous Boscombe Pier.

Christchurch

• Picturesque riverside parks and gardens.

• Historic sites like the 11th-century church.

Best Times To Visit Bournemouth's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Bournemouth experience.

Bournemouth Beach

Early morning offers serene views and fewer crowds, ideal for beach walks.

The Bournemouth Eye

Afternoons provide stunning sunset views and lighter wait times for rides.

Oceanarium

Weekday mornings are quieter, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.

Bournemouth Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bournemouth enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it a welcoming destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are typically late spring and early fall, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and coastal exploration.

Dining Recommendation

In Bournemouth, savor the fresh seafood at The Crab, where dishes like locally caught crab and fish come alive with coastal flavors and a relaxed beachside atmosphere. This culinary experience contrasts sharply with Manchester's vibrant urban fare, offering a taste of the sea that highlights the region's local ingredients.

Manchester - Bournemouth operators

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

Train

Contact phone

00 44 345 528 0253

Website

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

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston

Average Duration

2h 6m

Estimated price

$85-220

Contact phone

0345 6000 650

Website

https://www.southwesternrailway.com/

Train from London Waterloo to Bournemouth

Average Duration

1h 56m

Estimated price

$60-140

Train from Southampton Airport Parkway to Bournemouth

Average Duration

47m

Estimated price

$19-45

Contact phone

0344 736 9123

Website

https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Bournemouth

Average Duration

4h 50m

Estimated price

$130-410

Train from Southampton Airport Parkway to Bournemouth

Average Duration

36m

Estimated price

$30-55

Train from Reading to Bournemouth

Average Duration

1h 23m

Estimated price

$50-130

Bus

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Shudehill Interchange to Southampton Airport Parkway Rail Station

Average Duration

5h 45m

Estimated price

$22-35

Plane

Website

britishairways.com

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Southampton (SOU)

Average Duration

4h 42m

Estimated price

$160-700

Website

loganair.co.uk

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Southampton (SOU)

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

$80-550

Website

easyjet.com

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Southampton (SOU)

Average Duration

4h 55m

Estimated price

$80-550

Website

klm.com

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Southampton (SOU)

Average Duration

4h 48m

Estimated price

$190-1100

Website

aerlingus.com

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Southampton (SOU)

Average Duration

4h 42m

Estimated price

$160-700

Website

blueislands.com

Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Southampton (SOU)

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

$80-550

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

Traveling between Manchester and Bournemouth 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.

🚗 Experience a scenic road trip from Manchester to Bournemouth covering a distance of 253 miles in just about 4 hours and 15 minutes. 💰 Depending on fuel costs and parking fees, the overall price of driving from Manchester to Bournemouth ranges from £63 to £95, making it an affordable travel option.

Average price

£62 - £93

🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Manchester to Bournemouth with a direct service offered by Avanti West Coast. Departing from Manchester Piccadilly, the train arrives at Bournemouth station after a relaxing 4-hour and 50-minute ride. 🌞 Experience the convenience of train travel with South Western Railway as you make your way from bustling Manchester to the seaside charm of Bournemouth. Whether for a day trip or a longer getaway, the journey of approximately 4 hours and 33 minutes offers a smooth and enjoyable ride. Plan your adventure and explore the scenic route at prices varying from £118 to £286 for a memorable trip across the UK.

Departure Point

Manchester Piccadilly station

Arrival Point

Bournemouth station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard services on the direct trains from Manchester to Bournemouth typically include a catering service that offers light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Depending on the time of travel, catering may be available for purchase through a trolley service or at your seat if you are in First Class.

• The trains on this route usually offer different seating options: First Class seats provide more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments; Standard Class offers comfortable seating along with power outlets and WiFi, but food and drink are paid for. Trains serving this route are primarily operated by Avanti West Coast and South Western Railway. Check their schedules and refreshments on their websites: Avanti West Coast and South Western Railway.

• Upon arriving at Bournemouth station, you will find facilities such as restrooms and the option to leave luggage at the station for a small fee, which makes it convenient for exploring the area without carrying all your bags. To get to the city center quickly, take the Yellow B1 bus, which runs frequently from the station to the town center. You can check the bus schedules here.

🛫 Flying from Manchester Airport to Southampton Airport involves a stopover, with the quickest flight option taking approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. Airlines such as Blue Islands Limited, Ryanair, and easyJet provide flights on this route.

Departure Point

Manchester Airport

Arrival Point

Southampton Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 55m and has one stopover

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Since there are no direct flights from Manchester to Bournemouth, consider booking with easyJet as they often have shorter stopover times—check their website for the latest flight schedules at easyjet.com

• Upon arrival at Southampton Airport, be prepared for a quick 15-minute drive to Bournemouth; taxis are readily available outside the terminal, and expect to pay around £25-£30 for the ride.

• Be aware that navigating Southampton Airport can involve some walking between terminals for connecting flights; familiarize yourself with the airport layout by visiting southamptonairport.com before you go.

🚌 Route 1 offers a journey of 7 hours 50 mins covering 487 km with 2 transfers. Starting at Manchester Coach Station, you'll switch buses at Milton Keynes Coachway and London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 before reaching Bournemouth Bus Station. 🚌 For Route 2, the trip takes 8 hours 45 mins across 497 km with 1 transfer. Beginning at Manchester Coach Station, you'll hop off at Victoria Coach Station and then proceed to Bournemouth Bus Station for your final destination. 🚌 Route 3 features an 8-hour 15-min journey spanning 493 km with 1 transfer. Departing from Manchester Shudehill Interchange, you'll change buses at Victoria Coach Station before arriving at Bournemouth Bus Station.