Manchester to Oxford: Cheapest Travel Options
Bus: Choose Megabus for affordable tickets from Manchester to Oxford starting at just £17.99. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 4h 25m trip.
Over 1 schedules for your journey.
Manchester to Oxford bus times
Check out the cheapest buses departing from Manchester to Oxford
| Company | Departure time/Arrival time | Departure Station/Arrival Station | Transport Type | Price | View schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4h 25m Megabus | Shudehill Interchange Stand GGloucester Green Bus Station Bay 13 | bus | £17.99 |
Bus Manchester to Oxford
It takes an average of 4h 25m to travel from Manchester to Oxford by bus, over a distance of around 204 km. There are normally 1 buses per day traveling from Manchester to Oxford and tickets for this journey start from £17.99 when you book in advance.
| Distance | 204 km | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £17.99 | |
| Frequency | 1 | |
| Fastest | 4h 25m |
What companies travel from Manchester to Oxford?
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
Traveling from Manchester to Oxford, let’s delve into the top differences among the available transportation modes:
Travel Time: Zip to Oxford by train in about 3 hours, mingling speed and landscape views. By bus, it’s a slower journey of 4 to 5 hours, ideal for the unhurried traveler.
Cost: Bus rides win for budget-friendliness, while trains, costing more, offer a quicker, smooth experience. Driving’s cost varies with personal choices on the route.
Experience: On trains, relax in comfort with amenities; buses offer a gaze at Britain’s heartland. Driving? Freedom to explore at your own rhythm.
🧳 Given the 161 miles (259 kilometers) that separate the two cities, this trip can be termed as a short to medium journey. Scroll down for more insights that’ll guide your choice.
Bus vs Train
Considering bus versus train travel from Manchester to Oxford, the key takeaways are:
Cost Effectiveness: Opting for the bus can be more economical, ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for value on their journey.
Travel Speed: Trains typically offer a quicker trip, usually under 3 hours, saving time for additional exploration or relaxation at your destination.
Comfort and Amenities: Trains generally provide more onboard amenities such as power sockets and dining options, enhancing the overall comfort of the journey.
Cheapest Travel Options
From the heart of Manchester to the historic city of Oxford, savvy travelers can find pocket-friendly transport choices. Options from National Express, with its amenity-rich coaches, to frugal fares by Megabus, cost between £5 to £20. Direct train journeys by CrossCountry and scenic, connecting routes via Northern Rail range from £23 to £60. For those seeking a shared adventure, BlaBlaCar offers rides at £7 to £15.
Discover the best travel solutions tailored to your needs whether you’re a family seeking comfort, a business professional valuing time, or a solo traveler on a shoestring budget. Groups can take advantage of coach convenience and low fares, while business travelers may lean towards the efficiency of trains. Find out how to stretch your pounds and pick the perfect travel mode attuned to your travel desires and financial plans.
Cheap tickets from Manchester to Oxford
The price of tickets from Manchester to Oxford 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 Oxford 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."
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