Manchester, Greater Manchester to Inverness, Highlands from $56: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Manchester to Inverness: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$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.
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Compare prices for your selected dates
| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $24 | $22 | $25 | $29 | $29 | $26 | $26 |
| Train | $105 | $117 | $110 | $160 | $125 | $51 | $75 |
| Fly | $158 | $126 | $145 | $139 | $130 | $151 | $141 |
Traveling From Manchester to Inverness
The journey from Manchester, a bustling urban center rich in culture and history, to Inverness, where stunning Scottish landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere await, offers a captivating contrast for any traveler.
Best Neighbourhoods in Inverness
Inverness boasts charming neighborhoods each offering distinct experiences for visitors.
Downtown Inverness
• Bustling shops and restaurants line the streets.
• Proximity to iconic sites like Inverness Castle.
Culcabock
• Offers scenic views of the nearby countryside.
• A peaceful area ideal for leisurely walks.
Westhill
• Family-friendly with playgrounds and parks.
• Close to local schools and community centers.
Best Times To Visit Inverness's Attractions
Timing your visits to Inverness's top attractions can greatly enhance your experience.
Inverness Castle
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Loch Ness
Opt for weekdays in late spring to enjoy serene views and less hustle.
Culloden Battlefield
Autumn months provide beautiful scenery with fewer visitors for a reflective experience.
Inverness Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Inverness experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by cool summers and mild winters, making it accessible year-round. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, as the weather is generally pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions.
Dining Recommendation in Inverness
When in Inverness, don’t miss the chance to savor fresh highland venison at The Mustard Seed, which boasts a cozy riverside setting and a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. This culinary experience stands apart from Manchester's vibrant urban dining scene, offering a taste of the rugged Scottish landscape and a serene atmosphere that invites relaxation.
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.
Website
loganair.co.uk
Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Inverness (INV)
Average Duration
1h 30mEstimated price
$130-550Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Aberdeen (ABZ)
Average Duration
1h 10mEstimated price
$120-370Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671Website
tpexpress.co.uk
Train from Manchester Oxford Road to Haymarket
Average Duration
3h 7mEstimated price
$45-120Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston
Average Duration
38mEstimated price
$13-35Contact phone
+44 344 811 0141Website
scotrail.co.uk
Train from Haymarket to Inverness
Average Duration
3h 38mEstimated price
$55-130Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333Website
lner.co.uk
Train from Haymarket to Inverness
Average Duration
3h 26mEstimated price
$110-170Train from Newcastle to Inverness
Average Duration
5h 11mEstimated price
$160-230Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253Website
avantiwestcoast.co.uk
Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston
Average Duration
48mEstimated price
$14-80Website
sleeper.scot
Train from Preston to Inverness
Average Duration
7h 40mEstimated price
$85-110Website
uk.megabus.com
Bus from Manchester Shudehill Interchange to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station
Average Duration
5hEstimated price
$22-35Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Inverness Bus Station
Average Duration
3h 38mEstimated price
$19-26Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
flixbus.de
Bus from Manchester to Glasgow
Average Duration
5hEstimated price
$30-45Bus from Glasgow to Inverness
Average Duration
3h 55mEstimated price
$24-35Contact phone
08717 81 81 81Website
nationalexpress.com
Bus from Manchester Central Coach Station to Newcastle upon Tyne, St James Boulevard
Average Duration
3h 40mEstimated price
$30-45Manchester 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
• Onboard services on the Avanti West Coast trains include a catering service that offers a range of snacks, meals, and beverages. You can expect to see options like sandwiches, salads, and hot drinks, with a selection of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices. For a more premium experience, First Class passengers enjoy complimentary food and drink served at their seats, alongside a more extensive menu.
• The trains operating on the Manchester to Inverness route include Avanti West Coast and ScotRail, both offering distinct seating options. Avanti West Coast provides Standard (Economy) and First Class seats, while ScotRail offers Standard Class and First Class options as well. First Class offers larger seats with more legroom, power outlets, and access to a quieter environment, which can make a significant difference on such a longer journey.
• Upon arriving at Inverness station, you can leave your luggage at the station's left luggage facility if you wish to explore the city without your bags. The station is equipped with clean restrooms, but it typically does not have shower facilities. To get to the city center from the station, the fastest option is to take the Stagecoach bus number 4, which runs regularly and takes about 10-15 minutes to reach the city center. You can also check local transport schedules at stagecoachbus.com
🛫 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
🚌 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
• Plan your journey by checking the Megabus UK schedule in advance at megabus.com to ensure you match your bus timing with the transfer at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station, as the connection may require a brief wait.
• As you travel, make sure to pack snacks and entertainment, as the total journey time, including transfers, can be over 9 hours, and dining options on the bus could be limited.
• Upon arriving at Inverness Bus Station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the station layout; there are helpful signs indicating local transport options like buses to the city center and surrounding areas, enabling easy navigation to your final destination.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Manchester to Inverness.
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The distance between Manchester and Inverness is 289 miles by air, 367.7 miles by road. The typical travel time by train is 7 hours and 39 minutes, while by car it takes around 6 hours and 20 minutes. Alternatively, taking a combination of train to Birmingham and then flying to Inverness can take approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes. By bus, the travel time from Manchester to Inverness is around 8 hours and 59 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Manchester to Inverness is by bus, as it is the cheapest and takes 8 hours and 59 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the fastest option is to fly, which takes 4 hours and 2 minutes, but is more expensive. Therefore, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on personal preferences and priorities.
The prices for a train journey between Manchester and Inverness range from £127 to £309. On the other hand, the prices for a bus trip between Inverness and Manchester vary from £41 to £83. It's important to note that these prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, availability, and any ongoing promotions or discounts. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Manchester to Inverness without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 368 miles, and it takes about 6 hours and 20 minutes to drive. The prices for renting a car and fuel costs can vary but are usually around £94 to £141. Driving allows you the flexibility to make stops along the way and enjoy the scenic route as you make your way to Inverness.
To travel from Manchester to Inverness without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes, and the ticket prices range from £126 to £314. Alternatively, you can choose to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 2 minutes and costs between £78 and £243. If you prefer a longer journey, you could also take a bus, which takes 8 hours and 59 minutes and costs between £39 and £86.
Yes, there is a link between Manchester and Inverness, but there is no direct train or bus. The fastest way to travel by train is to take a TransPennine Express service from Manchester Oxford Road to Haymarket, and then transfer to another train to Inverness, which takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes. Alternatively, traveling by bus is an option but it takes longer, with a journey time of around 8 hours and 59 minutes, including transfers.
The flight between Manchester and Inverness typically takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, ranging from £78 to £236. It is important to note that these prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the time of year, availability, and booking in advance. It is always recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deals.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Inverness with over 927 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at £20 per night, offering a range of options to suit different budgets. Visitors can easily find a place to stay that suits their preferences and requirements in Inverness.
Trips from Manchester
- Manchester to Dublin
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Trips to Inverness
- Fort William to Inverness
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- Aberdeen to Inverness
- Edinburgh to Inverness
- Dublin to Inverness
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- Birmingham to Inverness
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- Pitlochry to Inverness
- Bergen to Inverness
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- Houston to Inverness
- Loch Ness to Inverness
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