National Express has announced it is boosting its intercity coach services between London and the North West – offering more affordable, convenient and reliable transport choices as fuel prices continue to soar.
From Monday 13th April, the UK’s largest scheduled coach operator is introducing some changes to better meet customer demand, including a significant increase in daily journeys between London and Manchester – from 18 up to 27, and fares from £7.80 one way*.
A new overnight service will launch between Manchester and Heathrow from the same date.
Javier Martinez Prieto, Managing Director at National Express, said:
“Our enhanced services from the 13th April are among the latest improvements we’re delivering as we focus on what matters most to customers – affordable, convenient and reliable transport that gets them where they want to go across our nationwide network.
“It’s clear from a recent surge in bookings that many are looking for more cost-effective and sustainable ways to get around and coach travel allows people to enjoy their journey without worrying about the cost of filling up the car, parking or other driving expenses.
“With hundreds of great value, reliable and frequent coaches serving destinations right across the country, including all major UK airports, we’re proud to play our part in helping to keep UK breaks and airport travel for holidays abroad more affordable.”
According to VisitBritain’s March 2026 Domestic Sentiment Tracker report, 60% of UK adults say that the cost of living crisis is affecting them and they’re being careful with their finances or cutting back on spending. Nearly a quarter of people (22%) say the cost of fuel is hindering their travel plans.
National Express reports that bookings for services between London and Manchester surged over 220% within a fortnight** recently, as households looked for more affordable ways to take a break over the Easter period.
Its modern coach services link hundreds of destinations across the country including all major UK airports, with leather reclining seats, free Wi-Fi on selected services, USB power sockets and a generous luggage allowance of up to 20kg.
