- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bath to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bath to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $98 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 55m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $98, while a train costs an average of $115.
Distance: 144 miles (232 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$98 Average price Cheapest | $115 Average price | $65 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 15m Average total duration 5h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 55m Average total duration Fastest 2h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Bath to Colchester is a bus with an average price of $98.
This is compared to other travel options from Bath to Colchester:
A bus is $16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bath to Colchester costing on average $115.
The fastest way to travel from Bath to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 25m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bath and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bath to Colchester among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $98 compared to roughly $65 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-33.86. The journey takes 5h 45m versus 3h 36m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Bath to Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Compare prices and tickets Bath to Colchester by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Why should you book Bath to Colchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Bath to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bath 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bath to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bath to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bath to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Bath to Colchester run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $98 but you can travel from only $68 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:12, the last at 21:50. The fastest bus covers the 144 miles (232 km) distance in 5h 45m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $68
Distance 144 miles (232 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $98 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 5h 45m |
First bus 2:12 AM |
Last bus 9:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 days |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $68
Bus providers: National Express from Bath to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Bath to Colchester with National Express for as low as $68. 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 National Express Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
$98
National Express frequency
1 a day
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.
Complete guide to Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Military Museum
Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.
- Recommended
Colchester Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Colchester East Hill / High Street, Colchester -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Colchester. You can also use the First Bus app for tickets and live times.
- Colchester town centre is walkable, so buses are most useful for longer trips such as Colchester Station or outlying areas.
FAQs: Bus from Bath to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bath 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 Bath to Colchester can start from as little as $98 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bath to Colchester is $98 ; 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 Bath to Colchester is 5h 45m to travel the 144 miles (232 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 Bath to Colchester leaves at 2:12 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bath to Colchester leaves at 9:50 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Bath 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 Bath 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 Bath and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Bath , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Bath, Bus Station, Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road . When arriving in Colchester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Colchester, East Hill / High Street, Capel St Mary, Ipswich Road, Marks Tey, A120 .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Bath, Bus Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Colchester, East Hill / High Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Colchester from Bath is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bath to Colchester is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bath and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bath to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bath to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bath 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 Bath to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bath 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 Bath to Colchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Bath to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bath to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bath to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bath to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Bath 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Bath 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 Bath to Colchester
Most Bath to Colchester buses use the Bath, Bus Station to Colchester, East Hill / High Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Bath and Colchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Bath
Arrival bus stations in Colchester
Which Bath station do buses to Colchester leave from?
Buses from Bath to Colchester leave from Bath, Bus Station. The station is from Bath city centre at Southgate Street, Bath BA1 1TP, United Kingdom.
Bath, Bus StationSouthgate Street, Bath BA1 1TP, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Bath, Bus Station from Bath city centre
Bus1, 5, 21, 31 Train: Great Western Railway
Bath, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Bath, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café and fast food options (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bath, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bath, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bath, Bus Station: Ramps, assistance.
Bath, London Road / St. Saviours RoadBath (London Road), Bath BA1 6QA, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road from Bath city centre
Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road is 1 km from Bath city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus779 · 6m
271, X31, 228, 272, 273, X83, 231 · 9m · $2 · every ~14 min
13 · 11m · $2 · every ~9 min
13 · 13m · $2 · every ~9 min
Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road bus station facilities and services
Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road. ATMs are available at Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bath, London Road / St. Saviours Road: Station accessible via ramps.
Which Colchester station do buses from Bath arrive at?
Buses from Bath to Colchester most often arrive at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. Some services arrive at Capel St Mary, Ipswich Road, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Colchester arrival station.
Colchester, East Hill / High StreetColchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · $4 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · $1 · every ~3 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street bus station facilities and services
Colchester, East Hill / High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. ATMs are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Limited accessibility features.
Most popular bus connections from Bath
More options for your journey from Bath to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Bath
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
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