Private car transfer
from Edinburgh to Manchester

Daytrip lets your transfer become a unique experience catered just for you. Our private car transfers provide a personal touch and are convenient and comfortable. Enjoy the independence to see the sights at your own leisure with the help of your professional driver and arrive in Manchester as quickly as 4 hours and 10 minutes. This way you can take a one-of-a-kind car trip from Edinburgh to Manchester, making every one of the 215 miles (347 km) memorable.

Manchester is also a cultural hotspot; music flows through its veins, producing legendary bands like The Smiths, Oasis, and Joy Division. This city is home to cultural institutions such as the Manchester Art Gallery and The Lowry. Sport is a cornerstone of the city's identity, with dedicated fan bases for soccer clubs such as Manchester City and Manchester United. Students from all across the world flock to the city's universities, therefore adding to its active, youthful culture.

Manchester's energetic center is home to a wide range of establishments from restaurants to pubs, stores to galleries, and museums to hotels. This lively urban playground assures you won't be let down, whatever your interests—history, culture, or just having fun.

Prepare for weather surprises

The unpredictable nature of British weather means that you should prepare for unexpected changes. One minute, the sun can be bright and clear; the next, you might be trapped in an unexpected downpour. To be comfortable, whatever the weather throws at you, pack a small umbrella, a raincoat, and some additional layers.

Travel off-peak

If your schedule allows, try traveling outside of peak times. Trains and buses are usually less busy and offer less expensive rates. Steering clear of rush hours (usually between 5:00-7:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) can help make your travel more affordable and enjoyable.

• Price: range from $31 to $120 (£25 to £95) depending on travel time and service class
• Duration: 3 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes

Bus from Edinburgh to Manchester

Buses and coaches offer cheap fares and decent comfort. However, as it’s a more affordable option, the trip can take longer. Companies like Megabus and National Express offer regular services. The quickest option will take around 5 hours and 10 minutes, with the earliest bus leaving Edinburgh at 7 a.m. and the latest at 9 p.m. Fares start from $21.

• Price: fares start from $21 (£17)
• Duration: 5 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 55 minutes

Flight from Edinburgh to Manchester

Flying may seem like the fastest choice, but there are no direct flights from Edinburgh to Manchester. Flights from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) usually need a change at airports in Belfast or Birmingham, or you need to go to Aberdeen, Scotland, and fly from there. This can turn what might initially appear to be a swift journey into a more lengthy and complicated one. Given these factors, driving or taking the train is easier and faster than several transfers and layovers.

• Price: starting from approximately $42 (£34)
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours, depending on transfers

Private car transfer from Edinburgh to Manchester

For a truly stress-free and comfortable journey, consider a private car transfer from Edinburgh to Manchester. With Daytrip, your driver will handle all the logistics, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Why not take the opportunity to visit some sites along the way, such as the historically significant Lancaster Castle or the architecturally impressive Blackburn Cathedral? Enjoy a leisurely, personalized journey at your own pace and savor every moment of your travel.

• Price: from $148 (£116) per seat
• Duration: door-to-door in 4 hours and 10 minutes

Hire a car from Edinburgh to Manchester

One convenient and versatile option is to hire a car and drive from Edinburgh to Manchester. It gives you complete control over your trip to Manchester, and, if you plan on exploring the surrounding area, say, the nearby Peak District, having a rental gives you the freedom to do so. Just don’t forget to figure out parking in advance!

• Price: prices start from around $100 (£80) a day, with added costs for fuel
• Duration: approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes

Explore the Northern Quarter

Head on over to the Northern Quarter if you thrive in the heart of a lively city. There is a wide variety of restaurants and pubs in the area, as well as attractive boutiques and street art. Envision yourself strolling through neighborhoods where murals and graffiti decorate every corner. Stop by a café where the ambiance is filled with the aroma of freshly made coffee and the sound of friendly chatter. Browse shops selling anything from clothing to unique, handcrafted items.

For a taste of Manchester's musical heritage, visit some of the independent record shops and Band on the Wall, where legendary bands have performed. Music here isn't just background noise—it's the soul of the city. If you want to feel genuine Northern hospitality, you should visit the Northern Quarter.

Relax in Heaton Park

In search of an escape from the fast-paced city environment? For a little bit of nature head to Heaton Park. Covering over 600 acres, it is one of Europe's biggest public parks. Wander through well-kept gardens, relax on a boat trip over the calm lake, or find a quiet spot to read a good book. Music festivals and outdoor performances are only two of the many activities that take place in the park. Come here to reconnect with nature as you unwind and relax.

• Weather: mild with occasional showers
• Events: St. Patrick’s Day, various music festivals
• Average temperatures: highs of 55°F (13°C), lows of 41°F (5°C)

Manchester in summer (June to August)

Summer is festival season in Manchester. Long days filled with outdoor concerts, festivals, food, and athletic activities make the city buzz. The lively nightlife, pub gardens, and outdoor dining are at their best during this season.

• Weather: warm and occasionally sunny
• Events: Manchester Day Parade, Parklife Festival, Manchester International Festival (biennial)
• Average temperatures: highs of 68°F (20°C), lows of 54°F (12°C)

Manchester in autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings a colorful transformation to Manchester. The city's parks display stunning autumn leaves, and the temperature is cool, making it the perfect time to see the historical and cultural landmarks.

• Weather: cool with a mix of sunny and rainy days
• Events: Manchester Literature Festival, Halloween celebrations
• Average temperatures: highs of 59°F (15°C), lows of 45°F (7°C)

Manchester in winter (December to February)

Christmas markets and twinkling lights make Manchester a magical place to visit in the winter. Indoor attractions and Christmas festivities are perfect throughout this season despite the chilly weather.

• Weather: cold with possible frost and occasional snow
• Events: Christmas markets, New Year celebrations, Chinese New Year Festival
• Average temperatures: highs of 45°F (7°C), lows of 36°F (2°C)