- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bournemouth to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 19
Cheapest price
kr638
Average price
kr638
Fastest journey
11 h 55 m
Average duration
11 h 55 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
343 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bournemouth to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bournemouth to Preston will cost around kr638 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr638.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Bournemouth for Preston on Wed, Aug 19, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 19 the direct buses cover the 343 km distance in an average of 11 h 55 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h 55 m .
On Wed, Aug 19 the slowest buses will take 11 h 55 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.
7:15 PM11h55Bournemouth7:10 AMPrestonkr6381One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 PM11h55Bournemouth7:10 AMPrestonkr6381One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bournemouth to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bournemouth to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from kr394. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr394, and a train costs an average of kr977.
Distance: 213 miles (343 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr622 Average price Cheapest | kr1566 Average price | kr862 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 9m Average total duration 10h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 19m Average total duration Fastest 4h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 6m 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 Preston is a bus with an average price of kr622.
This is compared to other travel options from Bournemouth to Preston:
A bus is kr944 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bournemouth to Preston costing on average kr1566.
The fastest way to travel from Bournemouth to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 4h 49m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 39m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Preston including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bournemouth to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Bournemouth to Preston Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 12h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price kr638 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 12h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr765 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr644 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price kr812 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price kr645 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr563 |
Live departures
Bournemouth to Preston bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Preston buses for today, Tuesday, August 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX035 · NX540 · RL152 | 10:30 AM Bournemouth, Coach Station | 12h20 | 10:50 PM Preston, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX160 · NX181 | 3:00 PM Bournemouth, Coach Station | 11h25 | 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX035 · NX424 | 7:15 PM Bournemouth, Coach Station | 11h55 | 7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bournemouth to Preston 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.
Wed
Aug 19
Aug 19
Thu
Aug 20
Aug 20
Fri
Aug 21
Aug 21
Sat
Aug 22
Aug 22
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Aug 23
Aug 23
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Aug 25
Aug 25
Why should you book Bournemouth to Preston buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Bournemouth to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Preston.
- 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 Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bournemouth to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bournemouth to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Bournemouth to Preston run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 39m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at kr394 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 22:35. The fastest bus covers the 213 miles (343 km) distance in 11h 5m.
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 213 miles (343 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price kr394 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 11h 5m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 2 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
Bus providers: National Express, Megabus from Bournemouth to PrestonYou can travel by bus between Bournemouth to Preston with National Express, Megabus for as low as kr394. 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 Duration
11h 5m
Cheapest Price
kr394
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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Preston Bus Station -> Preston Railway Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 14 min
- Most local buses in Preston accept contactless card payment; buy before boarding only if your operator requires it.
- Preston Bus Station is the main hub for city services; check your operator in advance because fares and tickets vary by company.
FAQs: Bus from Bournemouth to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Bournemouth to Preston can start from as little as kr394 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bournemouth to Preston is kr622 ; 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 Preston is 11h 5m to travel the 213 miles (343 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 Preston leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bournemouth to Preston leaves at 10:35 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Bournemouth to Preston which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bournemouth to Preston, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Preston. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bournemouth and Preston and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Preston from Bournemouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bournemouth to Preston is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Preston including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bournemouth to Preston:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bournemouth to Preston for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bournemouth to Preston depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- 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 Preston.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bournemouth to Preston:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- 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 Preston:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Bournemouth to Preston.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bournemouth to Preston with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bournemouth to Preston with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bournemouth to Preston with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Bournemouth nor Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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 Preston
Most Bournemouth to Preston buses use the Bournemouth, Coach Station to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Preston 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 Preston
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 · kr23 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · kr23 · every ~74 min
Which Preston station do buses from Bournemouth arrive at?
Buses from Bournemouth to Preston arrive at Preston, Bus Station. Preston, Bus Station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · kr105 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, 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 fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Most popular bus connections from Bournemouth
More options for your journey from Bournemouth to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Preston and Bournemouth
Most popular bus connections to Preston
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