- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Bristol to Canterbury
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 30
Cheapest price on Oct 30
$19
Average ticket price on Oct 30
$23
Fastest journey on Oct 30
5 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Oct 30
5 h 53 m
Buses on Oct 30
5
Distance
256 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bristol to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bristol to Canterbury will cost around $23 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.
Fast buses
On Fri, Oct 30, we found 5 buses from Bristol to Canterbury, including 5 direct services.
On Fri, Oct 30 the direct buses cover the 256 km distance in an average of 5 h 53 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 40 m .
On Fri, Oct 30 the slowest buses will take 6 h 5 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.
6:30 PM 5h40 Bristol 12:10 AM Canterbury $19 1 One-way 0 transfers5:45 PM 6h05 Bristol 11:50 PM Canterbury $19 1 One-way 0 transfers3:45 AM 6h00 Bristol 9:45 AM Canterbury $22 1 One-way 0 transfers7:30 PM 5h40 Bristol 1:10 AM Canterbury $24 1 One-way 0 transfers2:45 AM 6h00 Bristol 8:45 AM Canterbury $30 1 One-way 0 transfers
7:30 PM 5h40 Bristol 1:10 AM Canterbury $24 1 One-way 0 transfers6:30 PM 5h40 Bristol 12:10 AM Canterbury $19 1 One-way 0 transfers3:45 AM 6h00 Bristol 9:45 AM Canterbury $22 1 One-way 0 transfers2:45 AM 6h00 Bristol 8:45 AM Canterbury $30 1 One-way 0 transfers5:45 PM 6h05 Bristol 11:50 PM Canterbury $19 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bristol to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Bristol to Canterbury run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:46, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 4h 25m.
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 159 miles (256 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€15) |
Buses per day 13 |
Fastest bus 4h 25m |
First bus 2:46 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Bristol to Canterbury trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bristol to Canterbury.
Cheap bus tickets from Bristol to Canterbury can start from as little as $18 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bristol to Canterbury is $39 (€32) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Bristol to Canterbury leaves at 2:46 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bristol to Canterbury leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 13 buses a day from Bristol to Canterbury which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Bristol to Canterbury Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45AM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:10PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Live departures
Bristol to Canterbury bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Canterbury buses for today, Thursday, October 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:15 PM Bristol | 6h10 | 9:25 PM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:15 PM Bristol | 6h40 | 10:55 PM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:30 PM Bristol | 6h20 | 11:50 PM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:30 PM Bristol | 6h20 | 12:50 AM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, October 30 | |||||
| 2:45 AM Bristol | 6h00 | 8:45 AM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:45 AM Bristol | 6h00 | 9:45 AM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bristol to Canterbury buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Bristol to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Canterbury.
Bus providers: National Express from Bristol to CanterburyYou can travel by bus between Bristol to Canterbury with National Express for as low as $18 (€15). 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 25m
Cheapest National Express Price
$18 (€15)
National Express frequency
13 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bristol and Canterbury
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Bristol 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 Bristol and Canterbury and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bristol to Canterbury:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bristol to Canterbury for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bristol 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Bristol to Canterbury.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bristol 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 Bristol to Canterbury:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Bristol to Canterbury.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bristol to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bristol to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bristol to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express.
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.
Plan your visit to Canterbury
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Canterbury.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Bristol to Canterbury
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Canterbury including taking a bus and train.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Bristol to Canterbury
Most Bristol to Canterbury buses use the Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) to Canterbury, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury, University Of Kent. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Canterbury bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Bristol
Arrival bus stations in Canterbury
Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)Bristol Bus Station (Bay 19), Marlborough Street 15, BS1 3ES
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) from Bristol city centre
Bus76, X6, X1, 39, 75, X9, X4, 73, X39, 522, X6a, X1a · 4m · $3 · every ~156 min
Bristol, University Queens RoadBeacon House, Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1QU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol, University Queens Road from Bristol city centre
Bus72 · 11m · $5 · every ~8 min
Bristol, University Queens Road bus station facilities and services
Bristol, University Queens Road 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 in vicinity.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bristol, University Queens Road. ATMs are aTMs available at nearby locations.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bristol, University Queens Road.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bristol, University Queens Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, University Queens Road: Wheelchair accessible via ramps.
Which Canterbury station do buses from Bristol arrive at?
Buses from Bristol to Canterbury most often arrive at Canterbury, Bus Station. Some services arrive at Canterbury, University Of Kent, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Canterbury arrival station.
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.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Bristol
More options for your journey from Bristol to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Canterbury and Bristol
Most popular bus connections to Canterbury
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
