- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Victorian villa museum with local history, archaeology, and rotating exhibitions in one of Bournemouth’s most important heritage buildings.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cambridge to Bournemouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$23
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$28
Fastest journey on Sep 05
7 h
Average journey duration on Sep 05
8 h 2 m
Buses on Sep 05
3
Distance
215 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cambridge to Bournemouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cambridge to Bournemouth will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 3 buses from Cambridge to Bournemouth, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct buses cover the 215 km distance in an average of 8 h 2 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest buses will take 8 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.
12:30 PM8h25Cambridge8:55 PMBournemouth$231One-way0 transfers- 1:00 PM7h00Cambridge8:00 PMBournemouth$291One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 AM8h40Cambridge11:10 AMBournemouth$311One-way0 transfers
- 1:00 PM7h00Cambridge8:00 PMBournemouth$291One-way0 transfers
- 12:30 PM8h25Cambridge8:55 PMBournemouth$231One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 AM8h40Cambridge11:10 AMBournemouth$311One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cambridge to Bournemouth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $25 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 5m. 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 $25, while a train costs an average of $72.
Distance: 133 miles (215 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$25 Average price Cheapest | $72 Average price | $59 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 24m Average total duration 4h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 3h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  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 Cambridge to Bournemouth is a bus with an average price of $25.
This is compared to other travel options from Cambridge to Bournemouth:
A bus is $47 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Bournemouth costing on average $72.
The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Bournemouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 35m.
Other travel options to Bournemouth take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Bournemouth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Bournemouth 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 $25 compared to roughly $59 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $34. The journey takes 4h 54m versus 3h 2m 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.
Cambridge to Bournemouth Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30AM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 08:55PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $68 |
Live departures
Cambridge to Bournemouth bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Bournemouth buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:30 AM Cambridge | 8h40 | 11:10 AM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:30 PM Cambridge | 8h25 | 8:55 PM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:00 PM Cambridge | 7h00 | 8:00 PM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Bournemouth 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.
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
Sun
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Sep 11
Sep 11
Why should you book Cambridge to Bournemouth buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
- 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 Cambridge to Bournemouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cambridge to Bournemouth run on average 12 times per day, taking around 4h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:32, the last at 21:53. The fastest bus covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 5h 20m.
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 133 miles (215 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 5h 20m |
First bus 1:32 AM |
Last bus 9:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 3 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, FlixBus from Cambridge to BournemouthYou can travel by bus between Cambridge to Bournemouth with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $17. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$17
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
5h 20m
Cheapest National Express Price
$31
National Express frequency
10 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 Bournemouth
Things to do in Bournemouth
Discover the best of Bournemouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bournemouth trip today.
- Recommended
Red House Museum and Gardens
Volunteer-run local museum covering Christchurch history, archaeology, and community life in a characterful period setting.
- Recommended
Bournemouth Aviation Museum
Specialist aviation museum at Bournemouth Airport displaying historic aircraft, cockpits, and memorabilia for enthusiasts and families.
- Must visit
Bournemouth Beach
Long sandy beach and promenade area at the resort’s core, ideal for classic seaside walks, sunsets, and easy access to the pier.
- Must visit
Lower Gardens
Victorian gardens running through the town center, popular for strolling, seasonal events, and a green link from square to sea.
- Recommended
Alum Chine
Clifftop and chine with woodland paths descending to a quieter beach, loved for views and a more local atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Crab
Fresh crab landed on the Dorset coast, often served simply in salads or sandwiches. It is prized locally for its sweet flavour and seaside freshness.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Dorset Blue Vinny
A traditional Dorset blue cheese with a crumbly texture and strong savoury taste. It reflects the county’s long farmhouse cheesemaking heritage.
Fish And Chips
Classic fish and chips made with fresh south coast fish. It is a staple British seaside meal strongly associated with Bournemouth beach outings.
Chez Fred
Casual Bournemouth institution famous for hearty fish and chips close to the beach, ideal for a classic seaside meal.
The Crab At Bournemouth
Refined seafood-focused fine dining in a stylish setting near the coast, known for tasting menus and polished service.
WestBeach
Busy traditional seafood spot by the seafront, popular for fish and chips, shellfish, and relaxed coastal dining.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: hotels peak in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if not already added. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
morebus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Bournemouth Coach Station -> Bournemouth Square
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card and mobile payment are accepted on morebus buses, including tap on board for adult fares.
- The morebus app lets you buy tickets and check live departures before boarding.
FAQs: Bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cambridge to Bournemouth can start from as little as $17 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cambridge to Bournemouth is $25 ; 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 Cambridge to Bournemouth is 5h 20m to travel the 133 miles (215 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 Cambridge to Bournemouth leaves at 1:32 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth leaves at 9:53 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Cambridge to Bournemouth which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Bournemouth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cambridge and Bournemouth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bournemouth from Cambridge is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Bournemouth including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bournemouth are:
- Bournemouth Beach, a popular sandy beach stretching for miles with a pier and various water activities
- Bournemouth Pier, a Victorian-era pier offering entertainment, dining, and panoramic views of the coastline
- Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, a historic house museum featuring a diverse collection of art and artifacts
- Bournemouth Gardens, a series of beautiful gardens perfect for leisurely walks and picnics
- St. Peter's Church, a historic church known for its stunning architecture and the resting place of Mary Shelley.
The best things to do in Bournemouth include:
- Oceanarium, an aquarium featuring marine life from various global habitats
- Lower Gardens, a well-maintained public park with floral displays and seasonal events
- Boscombe Chine Gardens, a picturesque garden with a mini-golf course and water play area
- Hengistbury Head, a nature reserve ideal for hiking and birdwatching
- Bournemouth Aviation Museum, an interactive museum dedicated to the history of aviation.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cambridge to Bournemouth 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.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Cambridge to Bournemouth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cambridge to Bournemouth:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cambridge to Bournemouth:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cambridge to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Cambridge nor Bournemouth 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 Cambridge to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like beaches and nightlife spots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and stay vigilant in busy public places to 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 Cambridge to Bournemouth
Most Cambridge to Bournemouth buses use the Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) to Bournemouth, Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Bournemouth bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cambridge
Arrival bus stations in Bournemouth
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) from Cambridge city centre
BusTour · 31m · $2 · every ~6 min
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
More options for your journey from Cambridge to Bournemouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bournemouth and Cambridge
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