- Recommended
Ilfracombe Museum
Local museum covering Ilfracombe's maritime, social, and natural history. A strong introduction to the town through varied artifacts and displays.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bristol to Ilfracombe
Showing times and prices for Aug 18
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$36
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 20 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
109 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bristol to Ilfracombe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bristol to Ilfracombe will cost around $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Bristol for Ilfracombe on Tue, Aug 18, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 18 the direct buses cover the 109 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Tue, Aug 18 the slowest buses will take 3 h 20 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.
NX5023:35 PM3h20Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)6:55 PMBarnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)$361One-way0 transfers- NX1054:00 PM3h20Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)7:20 PMBarnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)$361One-way0 transfers
- NX5023:35 PM3h20Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)6:55 PMBarnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)$361One-way0 transfers
- NX1054:00 PM3h20Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)7:20 PMBarnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station)$361One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Bristol to Ilfracombe
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Ilfracombe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 7m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $22, and a bus costs an average of $27.
Distance: 67 miles (109 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$37 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest | $49 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 42m Average total duration 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 37m Average total duration Fastest 2h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 22m 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 Bristol to Ilfracombe is a train with an average price of $32.
This is compared to other travel options from Bristol to Ilfracombe:
A train is $6 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe costing on average $37.
The fastest way to travel from Bristol to Ilfracombe is by train with an average journey time of 2h 7m.
Other travel options to Ilfracombe take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Ilfracombe including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Ilfracombe 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.
Bristol to Ilfracombe Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 08:11AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 3h14 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Live departures
Bristol to Ilfracombe bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Ilfracombe buses for today, Monday, August 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX502 | 3:35 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 3h20 | 6:55 PM Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX105 | 4:00 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 3h20 | 7:20 PM Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bristol to Ilfracombe 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.
Tue
Aug 18
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Why should you book Bristol to Ilfracombe buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Bristol to Ilfracombe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Ilfracombe.
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 Ilfracombe.
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 Ilfracombe.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Bristol to Ilfracombe run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 but you can travel from only $22 by train.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:31, the last at 23:48. The fastest bus covers the 67 miles (109 km) distance in 2h 55m.
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 $22
Distance 67 miles (109 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 2h 55m |
First bus 6:31 AM |
Last bus 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $22
Bus providers: National Express from Bristol to IlfracombeYou can travel by bus between Bristol to Ilfracombe 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 Duration
3h 5m
Cheapest Price
$28
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 Ilfracombe
Things to do in Ilfracombe
Discover the best of Ilfracombe — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ilfracombe trip today.
- Recommended
Number 11 The Quay
Harbor gallery showing Damien Hirst works in a dramatic waterside setting. Important for contemporary art visitors exploring the town's creative side.
- Recommended
Hele Corn Mill
Nearby heritage mill with interpretive displays, crafts, and gallery elements. Offers a broader cultural stop just outside central Ilfracombe.
- Must visit
Ilfracombe Harbour
The heart of Ilfracombe's waterfront, lined with boats, historic buildings, and sea views. Essential for atmosphere, walks, and access to key sights.
- Must visit
Capstone Hill
Coastal hill and open space above the harbor with excellent viewpoints. Ideal for photos, sea breezes, and understanding the town's coastal layout.
- Must visit
South West Coast Path around Ilfracombe
Dramatic coastal path section with cliffs, sea panoramas, and wildlife interest. A top choice for active visitors wanting classic North Devon scenery.
- Gluten-free
North Devon Crab
Fresh North Devon crab is a local harbour staple, prized for sweet meat landed nearby and served simply in sandwiches, salads, or dressed platters.
- Gluten-free
Exmoor Mussels
Exmoor mussels are cultivated on the nearby coast and loved for their clean, briny flavour, often steamed with cider, garlic, or cream.
Fish And Chips
Beer-battered fish and chips is a classic Devon seaside meal, usually made with local catch and best eaten fresh by the harbour.
Thomas Carr At The Olive Room
Well-regarded restaurant offering modern British cooking with seafood and seasonal produce in a smart but welcoming setting.
S & P Fish Shop
Popular casual spot serving freshly cooked fish and chips near the seafront, valued for reliable portions and classic takeaway style.
The Admiral Collingwood
Established harbourside seafood restaurant known for local fish, shellfish, and relaxed coastal dining with water views.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Rooms and dining cost less than major UK cities, but summer prices rise. Local buses are affordable and many sights are low-cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for dinner in an upscale restaurant.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a service charge; if not, 10-12.5% is standard for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafe tipping is optional.
FAQs: Bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol to Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Bristol to Ilfracombe can start from as little as $27 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bristol to Ilfracombe is $37 ; 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 Ilfracombe is 2h 55m to travel the 67 miles (109 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 Ilfracombe leaves at 6:31 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe leaves at 11:48 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Bristol to Ilfracombe with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Ilfracombe. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bristol and Ilfracombe 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, Airport (Public Transport Interchange) . When arriving in Ilfracombe , you can end your journey in bus stations like Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station), Bickington, Bickington Road / North Lane, Fremington, Church Hill / Old School Lane .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 Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Ilfracombe from Bristol is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Ilfracombe including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bristol to Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bristol to Ilfracombe:
- 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 Ilfracombe:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bristol to Ilfracombe with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Bristol nor Ilfracombe 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 Bristol to Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe, travelers should be mindful of common coastal safety concerns such as slippery rocks and strong tides when visiting beaches and cliffs. There are no widespread scams reported specific to Ilfracombe, but travelers are advised to remain cautious with personal belongings in crowded areas and to use reputable transportation and ticket vendors to avoid potential fraud.
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 Ilfracombe
Most Bristol to Ilfracombe buses use the Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) to Barnstaple, Silver Street (Bus Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Ilfracombe 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 Ilfracombe
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
Most popular bus connections from Bristol
More options for your journey from Bristol to Ilfracombe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ilfracombe and Bristol
Most popular bus connections to Ilfracombe
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