If a MAN-LHR flight is cancelled, will BA pay for train travel? The last train from Manchester to Euston is at 21:15, arriving in Euston just before midnight. That might suit some people better than a coach.

Alternatively, for someone not is a hurry and assuming the direct flights any morning are likely to be full, ba.com offers MAN-HEL-LHR in Finnair Business and MAN-MAD-LHR in Iberia Economy. Both take most of the day, but will give extra TP and Avios.