Manchester to York: Cheapest Travel Options
Bus: Choose Megabus for affordable tickets from Manchester to York starting at just £7.49. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 3h 13m trip.
Train: Speed and Comfort. Opt for Transpennine Express trains with fares beginning at €34. Travel time approximately 2h 2m.
Over 86 schedules for your journey.
Manchester to York bus times
Check out the cheapest buses departing from Manchester to York
| Company | Departure time/Arrival time | Departure Station/Arrival Station | Transport Type | Price | View schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 3h 13m Megabus | Shudehill Interchange Stand GRailway Station Stop Rc | bus | £7.49 | |
| 4h Megabus | Shudehill Interchange Stand GRailway Station Stop Rc | bus | £7.49 | |
| 3h 25m Megabus | Shudehill Interchange Stand GRailway Station Stop Rc | bus | £7.49 |
Bus Manchester to York
It takes an average of 3h 32m to travel from Manchester to York by bus, over a distance of around 94 km. There are normally 3 buses per day traveling from Manchester to York and tickets for this journey start from £7.49 when you book in advance.
| Distance | 94 km | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £7.49 | |
| Frequency | 3 | |
| Fastest | 3h 13m |
Train Manchester to York
It takes an average of 1h 33m to travel from Manchester to York by train, over a distance of around 94 km. There are normally 83 trains per day traveling from Manchester to York and tickets for this journey start from €34 when you book in advance.
| Distance | 94 km | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €34 | |
| Frequency | 83 | |
| Fastest | 1h 13m |
What companies travel from Manchester to York?
Whether you're seeking speed, comfort, affordability, or a blend of all, our detailed overview covers the key players in the industry. Get insights into schedules, booking tips, and amenities offered by each company, ensuring your journey between these iconic cities is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Best Travel Options
Exploring travel options from Manchester to York brings light to unique benefits for each mode of transportation:
Travel Time: Trains transport you quickest, within approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, ideal for tight schedules. Buses follow, taking roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes for those preferring a slower pace.
Cost: Buses shine in affordability, serving budget-friendly transits, while train fares are slightly higher, justifying the speedy and comfortable journey they offer.
Experience: Train travel caters to comfort-seekers, with amenities and safety, whereas buses grant scenic exposures, perfect for casual travelers and sightseers.
🧳 Spanning about 71 km (44 miles), this short trip promises an insightful expedition whether for business or leisure. Dive into the full slate of travel insights below.
Bus vs Train
Exploring the journey from Manchester to York reveals distinct experiences by bus and train:
Convenience and Speed: Trains whisk passengers to York in just over an hour, ideal for tight schedules, whereas buses offer a longer, more leisurely trip.
Affordability: For the budget-aware, buses provide a pocket-friendly option. Trains, with higher fares, counterbalance the cost with swift travel and advanced booking deals.
Comfort and Views: Bus riders enjoy expansive landscapes and onboard comforts like Wi-Fi. Train travel prioritizes efficiency, with still pleasant views and spacious seating arrangements.
Cheapest Travel Options
Find cost-effective travel from Manchester to York with companies like National Express and Megabus, offering fares from £5 to £15. Choices such as TransPennine Express and Northern Rail present slightly higher priced options yet with additional comforts, often worth the extra pennies for a smoother ride. Prices range approximately from £13 to £60, striking a balance for those who value time over budget.
Tap into the wealth of affordable travel opportunities suited for your specific needs, whether traveling as a family, on business, or as a solo adventurer. Group travelers and families may find the additional amenities of trains advantageous, while solo or budget travelers can leverage the incredibly low-cost bus fares for their journey. Dive into your Manchester to York excursion with the best options to align with your travel goals and budget.
Frequently asked questions
Embark on a scenic journey from Manchester to York, soaking in the rich history along the route. Experience comfortable travel, timely departures, and picturesque landscapes seamlessly connecting two of England’s cultural hubs.
Cheap tickets from Manchester to York
The price of tickets from Manchester to York is cheaper for a one-way standard class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.
- Book in advance
Most of the companies release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper tickets from Manchester to York by booking early.
- Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the services are also popular commuter services, lots of companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider traveling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
- Choose a slower or connecting transport
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting transport. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Travel Tips
The best tips from our team for your next trip
"Research sightseeing opportunities along your route, such as landmarks, tourist attractions, or scenic routes, and plan your itinerary accordingly."
"Choosing the right seat, such as one with extralegroom or a window seat, can help maximize comfort during your journey."
"Check the pet policies of the bus or train company you are traveling with, and make sure your pet is allowed on board."
"Learn basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings or common phrases, to show respect and build connections with locals."
"Keep your valuables like cash, passport, andimportant documents in a secure place, like a neck wallet or a money belt.Avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry."
"Choose a mode of transportation that allows you to work comfortably, such as a train with spacious seating or a bus with Wi-Fi."
"Research the local culture and customs of the places you will be traveling through, and learn about the history, traditions, and values of the people."
"Bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey."
"Traveling during off-peak hours can save moneyon bus and train fares, as prices tend to be lower during non-peak times."
"Arrive on time for your bus or train, and be respectful of other passengers' schedules."
"Consider choosing eco-friendly transport options like buses or trains instead of driving alone in a car, which can help reduce your carbon footprint."
Most Popular Bus and Train Routes
Discover the most sought-after destinations and scenic journeys across the continent with our top-rated transportation options.
Discover the Top Transit Hubs
Discover the top transit hubs with our comprehensive list of the busiest and most important bus and train stations. Find out which stations offer the best connections and travel options for your next trip. Plan your trip with ease and efficiency by exploring our guide to the key transit hubs.