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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Colchester
Showing times and prices for Apr 04
Cheapest price
$85
Average price
$93
Fastest journey
7 h 25 m
Average duration
8 h 37 m
Buses per day
7
Distance
276 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Colchester will cost around $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $85.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Colchester without transferring at least 2 times.
NX540 · NX737 · NX71711:45 AM8h05Manchester, Coach Station7:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$851One-way2 transfers- NX540 · NX737 · NX7174:45 PM9h00Manchester, Coach Station1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$881One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX737 · NX7179:30 AM7h25Manchester, Coach Station4:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$891One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX737 · NX7175:40 AM9h15Manchester, Coach Station2:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$931One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX737 · NX7171:30 PM9h20Manchester, Coach Station10:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$931One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX737 · NX7179:30 AM7h25Manchester, Coach Station4:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$891One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX737 · NX71711:45 AM8h05Manchester, Coach Station7:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$851One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX737 · NX7174:45 PM9h00Manchester, Coach Station1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$881One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX737 · NX7175:40 AM9h15Manchester, Coach Station2:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$931One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX737 · NX7171:30 PM9h20Manchester, Coach Station10:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$931One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Manchester to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $45. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $45, and a flight costs an average of $84.
Distance: 171 miles (276 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$75 Average price Cheapest | $130 Average price | $176 Average price |
8h 30m Average total duration 8h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration 4h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Manchester to Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $102 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $100 |
Live departures
Manchester to Colchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Colchester buses for tomorrow, Friday, April 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX421 · NX777 · NX717 | 1:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h40 | 11:25 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX737 · NX717 | On time 4:40 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h15 | 1:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX737 · NX717 | On time 8:30 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h25 | 3:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX737 · NX717 | On time 10:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h05 | 6:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX737 · NX717 | On time 12:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h20 | 9:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX737 · NX717 | On time 3:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h00 | 12:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX424 · NX777 · NX717 | 10:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 10h10 | 9:05 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Colchester by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Apr 04
Apr 04
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Apr 05
Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
Apr 06
Tue
Apr 07
Apr 07
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Apr 08
Apr 08
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Apr 09
Apr 09
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Apr 10
Apr 10
Why should you book Manchester to Colchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Manchester to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Colchester run on average 10 times per day, taking around 8h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $45 (€37) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 171 miles (276 km) distance in 8h 20m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 171 miles (276 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 (€37) |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 8h 20m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: National Express from Manchester to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Colchester with National Express for as low as $45 (€37). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 20m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€37)
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Colchester by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Manchester to Colchester can start from as little as $45 (€37) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Colchester is $75 (€61) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Manchester to Colchester is 8h 20m to travel the 171 miles (276 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Manchester to Colchester leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Colchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Manchester to Colchester which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Manchester to Colchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Colchester from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Manchester to Colchester is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Colchester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester to Colchester depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Manchester to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester to Colchester:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Manchester to Colchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Manchester to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Manchester to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Manchester nor Colchester are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Colchester among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Manchester to Colchester
Manchester
Colchester
The major bus station for departures in Manchester is Manchester, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Coach Station for your trip from Manchester to Colchester.
Manchester, Coach Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Car connection
Chorlton StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Fast Food Express (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Coach Station
- Bus: 50, 192, 201, 203, 205, 219, 255, 256 Train: Manchester Piccadilly Metro: Piccadilly Gardens
Manchester, Airport
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
2 kmCar connection
Terminal Road NorthWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Burger King (in the station)
- Giraffe (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal, with several companies offering services.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, assistance
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Airport
- Bus: 43, 103 Train: Manchester Airport
The major bus station for arrivals in Colchester is Colchester, East Hill / High Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Colchester, East Hill / High Street for your trip to Colchester from Manchester.
Colchester, East Hill / High Street
information
More options for your journey from Manchester to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Manchester
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
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