- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Interactive museum inside a medieval church telling the story of Canterbury’s Roman, medieval, and modern past. Ideal first stop for context.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bournemouth to Canterbury
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$21
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$21
Fastest journey on Sep 18
6 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
6 h 30 m
Buses on Sep 18
1
Distance
216 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury will cost around $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast buses
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 1 buses from Bournemouth to Canterbury, including 1 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct buses cover the 216 km distance in an average of 6 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 30 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest buses will take 6 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:20 PM6h30Bournemouth11:50 PMCanterbury$211One-way0 transfers
- 5:20 PM6h30Bournemouth11:50 PMCanterbury$211One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bournemouth to Canterbury
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bournemouth to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 6m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, while a train costs an average of $110.
Distance: 134 miles (216 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$42 Average price Cheapest | $110 Average price | $58 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 3h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bournemouth to Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $42.
This is compared to other travel options from Bournemouth to Canterbury:
A bus is $67 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bournemouth to Canterbury costing on average $110.
The fastest way to travel from Bournemouth to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 3h 36m.
Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Canterbury including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bournemouth to Canterbury 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 $42 compared to roughly $58 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $16. The journey takes 5h 25m versus 2h 51m 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.
Bournemouth to Canterbury Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $23 |
Live departures
Bournemouth to Canterbury bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Canterbury buses for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 PM Bournemouth | 5h55 | 12:10 AM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:15 PM Bournemouth | 5h35 | 12:50 AM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bournemouth to Canterbury 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Sep 20
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Why should you book Bournemouth to Canterbury buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
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 Bournemouth to Canterbury.
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 Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Bournemouth to Canterbury run on average 16 times per day, taking around 5h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:35, the last at 20:03. The fastest bus covers the 134 miles (216 km) distance in 4h 38m.
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 134 miles (216 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 |
Buses per day 16 |
Fastest bus 4h 38m |
First bus 2:35 AM |
Last bus 8:03 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 Bournemouth to CanterburyYou can travel by bus between Bournemouth to Canterbury with National Express for as low as $22. 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
4h 38m
Cheapest National Express Price
$22
National Express frequency
16 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 Canterbury
Things to do in Canterbury
Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.
- Recommended
Canterbury Roman Museum
Underground remains of a Roman townhouse with mosaics and hypocaust. A compact but memorable look at Roman Canterbury beneath the streets.
- Recommended
The Canterbury Tales
Story-led museum on medieval pilgrimage inspired by Chaucer. It brings Canterbury’s most famous journeying tradition to life.
- Recommended
High Street
Pedestrian high street lined with historic buildings and shops. It is one of the best places to feel the rhythm of central Canterbury.
- Recommended
The King's Mile
Picturesque lane famed for overhanging medieval timber-framed buildings. One of Canterbury’s most photographed and atmospheric historic streets.
- Recommended
Mercery Lane
Elegant pedestrian street connecting major sights. Its historic façades, independent shops, and easy walking route make it especially pleasant.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kentish Huffkin
Kentish Huffkin is a traditional Kent bread roll, often served with cheese or fruit. It is a classic county bake linked to local farmhouse cooking.
- Vegetarian
Canterbury Tart
Canterbury Tart is a historic pastry tart, usually filled with apple and almond. It is associated with old Kent baking traditions and local tea tables.
- Gluten-free
Whitstable Oysters
Whitstable Oysters are served across Canterbury and East Kent. These native oysters are prized for their briny flavor and long link to the nearby coast.
The Corner House
Well-regarded modern British restaurant with seasonal menus and a smart yet relaxed setting in the city center.
The Goods Shed
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for polished British tasting menus and refined service in central Canterbury.
The Goods Shed
Popular farmers' market restaurant serving seasonal Kent produce, meats, cheeses, and simple dishes in a lively casual setting.
British Pound (£)
Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist-season stays and central restaurants raise prices. Local buses are reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included at restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis: round up or add 5-10%. Cafes: optional small change.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Canterbury Bus Station -> Canterbury Cathedral
- Distance
- 500 m
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Canterbury; you can also use Apple Pay or Google Pay.
- The £2 single bus fare cap applies on many local bus journeys in England, but check the operator before travel.
FAQs: Bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Bournemouth to Canterbury can start from as little as $22 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bournemouth to Canterbury is $42 ; 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 Bournemouth to Canterbury is 4h 38m to travel the 134 miles (216 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 Bournemouth to Canterbury leaves at 2:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury leaves at 8:03 PM.
There are 16 buses a day from Bournemouth to Canterbury which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Canterbury. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bournemouth and Canterbury and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Canterbury from Bournemouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 38m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Canterbury including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Canterbury are:
- Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic Gothic structure known for its stunning architecture and historical significance
- St. Augustine's Abbey, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery founded in the 6th century, offering insights into early Christian history in England
- Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, a medieval gatehouse with exhibits on local history and panoramic views of the city
- Canterbury Roman Museum, an underground museum showcasing Roman artifacts and the remains of a Roman townhouse
- Westgate Gardens, a picturesque park perfect for leisurely walks along the River Stour.
The best things to do in Canterbury include:
- Explore the historic streets of Canterbury on a guided walking tour, learning about its rich history and hidden gems
- Enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour for a unique perspective of the city's architecture and natural beauty
- Visit the Canterbury Tales attraction for an interactive experience of Chaucer's famous stories
- Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre, featuring plays, musicals, and concerts
- Discover the local food scene with a culinary tour of Canterbury's best eateries and markets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury 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 Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury:
- 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 Bournemouth to Canterbury:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bournemouth to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Bournemouth nor Canterbury 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 Bournemouth to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Bournemouth to Canterbury
Most Bournemouth to Canterbury buses use the Bournemouth, Coach Station to Canterbury, University Of Kent station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury, Bus Station. Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Canterbury bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Bournemouth
Arrival bus stations in Canterbury
Bournemouth, Coach Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth, Coach Station from Bournemouth city centre
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · $2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · $2 · every ~74 min
Which Canterbury station do buses from Bournemouth arrive at?
Buses from Bournemouth to Canterbury most often arrive at Canterbury, University Of Kent. Some services arrive at Canterbury, Bus Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Canterbury arrival station.
Canterbury, University Of KentUniversity of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury, University Of Kent from Canterbury city centre
Canterbury, University Of Kent is 1 km from Canterbury city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4, 4X, 5, 6, 6A
Canterbury, University Of Kent bus station facilities and services
Canterbury, University Of Kent has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, and WC.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located on campus, near the student union.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury, University Of Kent: Parking, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury, University Of Kent: Elevators, ramps.
Canterbury, Bus StationCanterbury bus station, Canterbury CT1 2SY, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury, Bus Station from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · $4 · every ~22 min
Canterbury, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Canterbury, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and eateries within a short walk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Canterbury, Bus Station. ATMs are aTM located outside the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury, Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible with assistance.
Most popular bus connections from Bournemouth
More options for your journey from Bournemouth to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Canterbury and Bournemouth
Most popular bus connections to Canterbury
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