Bristol to Canterbury bus with National Express

Thu, Sep 10
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bristol to Canterbury

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 10

Cheapest price on Sep 10

$20

Average ticket price on Sep 10

$24

Fastest journey on Sep 10

6 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Sep 10

6 h 23 m

Buses on Sep 10

4

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 $24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.

Fast buses

On Thu, Sep 10, we found 4 buses from Bristol to Canterbury, including 4 direct services.

On Thu, Sep 10 the direct buses cover the 256 km distance in an average of 6 h 23 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 10 m .

On Thu, Sep 10 the slowest buses will take 6 h 40 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.

  • National Express
    5:30 PM6h20
    Bristol
    11:50 PMCanterbury
    $201One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    3:15 PM6h10
    Bristol
    9:25 PMCanterbury
    $201One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    4:15 PM6h40
    Bristol
    10:55 PMCanterbury
    $271One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    6:30 PM6h20
    Bristol
    12:50 AMCanterbury
    $311One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Bristol to Canterbury

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $36 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 25m. 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 $36, while a train costs an average of $102.

Distance: 159 miles (256 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$36

Average price

Cheapest

$102

Average price

$81

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 56m

Average total duration

5h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 15m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Great Western Railway

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 Bristol to Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $36.

This is compared to other travel options from Bristol to Canterbury:

A bus is $66 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bristol to Canterbury costing on average $102.

The fastest way to travel from Bristol to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 2h 55m.

Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 26m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Canterbury including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol 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 $36 compared to roughly $81 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $45. The journey takes 5h 26m versus 3h 15m 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.

Bristol to Canterbury Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:45AM
Arrival Time
09:30AM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15AM
Arrival Time
11:55AM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:40AM
Arrival Time
11:55AM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00AM
Arrival Time
11:55AM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:15AM
Arrival Time
02:05PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30AM
Arrival Time
03:15PM
Duration
7h45
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:45AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:55AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
8h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:20AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:50AM
Arrival Time
03:15PM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:05AM
Arrival Time
05:20PM
Duration
8h15
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
07:20PM
Duration
9h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:30AM
Arrival Time
05:20PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:20PM
Arrival Time
07:20PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:50PM
Arrival Time
07:20PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:55PM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
09:05PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:35PM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:50PM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
7h35
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$46
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
09:25PM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
10:55PM
Duration
6h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:05PM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:15PM
Arrival Time
10:55PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:20PM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
6h05
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$46
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15PM
Arrival Time
11:50PM
Duration
6h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$26
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
06:00PM
Arrival Time
11:50PM
Duration
5h50
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:30PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
5h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:10PM
Arrival Time
01:10AM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30PM
Arrival Time
01:10AM
Duration
5h40
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:35PM
Arrival Time
01:10AM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$26

Live departures

Bristol to Canterbury bus times

The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Canterbury buses for tomorrow, Thursday, September 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express3:15 PM Bristol
6h10
9:25 PM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
National Express4:15 PM Bristol
6h40
10:55 PM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
National Express5:30 PM Bristol
6h20
11:50 PM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
National Express6:30 PM Bristol
6h20
12:50 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bristol to Canterbury by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16

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.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Bristol to Canterbury

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Bristol to Canterbury run on average 14 times per day, taking around 5h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 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 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$18
Buses per day
14
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

Bus providers: National Express from Bristol to CanterburyYou can travel by bus between Bristol to Canterbury with National Express for as low as $18. 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
National Express frequency
14 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

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.

  • 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.

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.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Bristol to Canterbury can start from as little as $18 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bristol to Canterbury is $36 ; 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 Bristol to Canterbury is 4h 25m to travel the 159 miles (256 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 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 14 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.
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.
When departing from Bristol , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St), Bristol, University Queens Road . When arriving in Canterbury , you can end your journey in bus stations like Canterbury, Bus Station, Canterbury, University Of Kent .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Canterbury, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Canterbury from Bristol is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bristol to Canterbury is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Canterbury including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bristol to Canterbury for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bristol 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 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 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 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.
Since neither Bristol 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol 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 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 · $2 · every ~156 min
Bristol, University Queens RoadBeacon House, Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1QU, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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.

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