Cambridge to Colchester bus with National Express

Fri, Jun 19
+ Add return
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Cambridge to Colchester

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$27

Average price

$37

Fastest journey

3 h 10 m

Average duration

3 h 49 m

Buses per day

4

Distance

64 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cambridge to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cambridge to Colchester will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.

Fast buses

Of the 4 buses that leave Cambridge for Colchester on Fri, Jun 19, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 19 the direct buses cover the 64 km distance in an average of 3 h 49 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .

On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest buses will take 4 h 15 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
    4:45 AM4h15
    Cambridge
    9:00 AMColchester
    $271One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    5:45 AM4h00
    Cambridge
    9:45 AMColchester
    $271One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    12:55 PM3h10
    Cambridge
    4:05 PMColchester
    $411One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    3:00 PM3h50
    Cambridge
    6:50 PMColchester
    $511One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cambridge to Colchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $9, and a bus costs an average of $18.

Distance: 39 miles (64 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$37

Average price

$33

Average price

Cheapest

$18

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 19m

Average total duration

1h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 24m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Greater Anglia

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 Colchester is a train with an average price of $33 (€27).

This is compared to other travel options from Cambridge to Colchester:

A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cambridge to Colchester costing on average $37 (€31).

The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Colchester is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 43m.

Other travel options to Colchester take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Colchester 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.

Cambridge to Colchester Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45AM
Arrival Time
09:00AM
Duration
4h15
Departure days
Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
Greater Anglia
Departure Time
04:50AM
Arrival Time
07:28AM
Duration
2h38
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:45AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
4h00
Departure days
Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05AM
Arrival Time
09:35AM
Duration
3h30
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
Greater Anglia
Departure Time
07:15AM
Arrival Time
09:59AM
Duration
2h44
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
Greater Anglia
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
10:59AM
Duration
2h59
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
12:10PM
Duration
2h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:15AM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
2h40
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
02:55PM
Duration
2h40
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:55PM
Arrival Time
03:55PM
Duration
3h00
Departure days
Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:55PM
Arrival Time
04:55PM
Duration
3h00
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:00PM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
07:05PM
Duration
3h05
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:15PM
Arrival Time
10:50PM
Duration
3h35
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:40PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
3h35
Departure days
Mon, Thu
Cheapest price
$28

Live departures

Cambridge to Colchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Colchester buses for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express9:40 PM Cambridge
3h35
1:15 AM Colchester0 transfersDirect
Friday, June 19
National Express4:45 AM Cambridge
4h15
9:00 AM Colchester0 transfersDirect
National Express5:45 AM Cambridge
4h00
9:45 AM Colchester0 transfersDirect
National Express12:55 PM Cambridge
3h10
4:05 PM Colchester0 transfersDirect
National Express3:00 PM Cambridge
3h50
6:50 PM Colchester0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Colchester 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.

Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

Why should you book Cambridge to Colchester buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Cambridge to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Colchester.

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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Colchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Colchester.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cambridge to Colchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cambridge to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 43m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 03:35, the last at 22:18. The fastest bus covers the 39 miles (64 km) distance in 2h 38m.

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 $9 (€7)
Distance
39 miles (64 km)
Average bus duration
1h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
$18 (€15)
Buses per day
6
Fastest bus
2h 38m
First bus
3:35 AM
Last bus
10:18 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $9 (€7)

Bus providers: National Express from Cambridge to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Cambridge to Colchester with National Express for as low as $9 (€7). 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
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
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.
Learn more about National Express

FAQs: Bus from Cambridge to Colchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cambridge to Colchester can start from as little as $18 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cambridge to Colchester is $37 (€31) ; 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 Colchester is 2h 38m to travel the 39 miles (64 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 Colchester leaves at 3:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cambridge to Colchester leaves at 10:18 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Cambridge to Colchester which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cambridge to Colchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cambridge and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Colchester from Cambridge is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 38m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cambridge to Colchester is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cambridge to Colchester:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cambridge to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cambridge to Colchester 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 Cambridge to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cambridge to Colchester:
  • 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 Cambridge to Colchester:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cambridge to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cambridge to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cambridge to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cambridge to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cambridge nor Colchester 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 Colchester 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 Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
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 Colchester

Most Cambridge to Colchester buses use the Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) to Colchester, East Hill / High Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Colchester 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 Colchester
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

More options for your journey from Cambridge to Colchester

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for buses from Colchester to Cambridge
Trains from Cambridge to Colchester
Tickets and more information for coaches to Cambridge
Tickets and more information for coaches to Colchester

Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Cambridge

Bus Cambridge - London
Bus Cambridge - Paris
Bus Cambridge - Birmingham
Bus Cambridge - Manchester
Bus Cambridge - Brussels
Bus Cambridge - Edinburgh
Bus Cambridge - Newcastle
Bus Cambridge - Lille
Bus Cambridge - Leeds
Bus Cambridge - London Stansted Airport
Bus Cambridge - Leicester
Bus Cambridge - London Heathrow Airport
Bus Cambridge - Coventry
Bus Cambridge - London Gatwick Airport
Bus Cambridge - Peterborough
Bus Cambridge - Bristol
Bus Cambridge - Liverpool
Bus Cambridge - Oxford
Bus Cambridge - London Luton Airport
Bus Cambridge - Luton
Bus Cambridge - Cardiff
Bus Cambridge - Stansted Mountfitchet
Bus London - Colchester
Bus Birmingham - Colchester
Bus Manchester - Colchester
Bus Newcastle - Colchester
Bus Leeds - Colchester
Bus Nottingham - Colchester
Bus London Stansted Airport - Colchester
Bus Leicester - Colchester
Bus London Heathrow Airport - Colchester
Bus Coventry - Colchester
Bus Glasgow - Colchester
Bus Sheffield - Colchester
HomeBusesBuses in United KingdomBus tickets to ColchesterCambridge to Colchester bus

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone