Bus to Canterbury with National Express

Sat, Aug 29
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Bus tickets to Canterbury

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Showing the fastest and cheapest results for Aug 29

Results include alternative arrival locations to Canterbury
  • National ExpressNX007
    11:00 PM2h10
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    1:10 AMCanterbury, Bus Station
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX007
    9:30 AM2h25
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    11:55 AMCanterbury, Bus Station
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX022
    6:00 PM2h25
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    8:25 PMCanterbury, Bus Station
    $311One-way
    0 transfers

Best day trips from Canterbury by bus

The most popular day trips by bus from Canterbury are London, Dover, Whitstable, Margate, and Folkestone. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Canterbury on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Canterbury to London by bus

Why visit London for the day?

London is the UK capital, known for royal history, major museums, and a global cultural scene. Historic landmarks line the Thames while diverse neighborhoods, theater, and food give the city a lively, international feel.

How to get from Canterbury to London by bus?

There are 16 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:12, the last at 23:57. The fastest bus covers the 54 miles (87 km) distance in 1h 55m.

A view of Dover

Day trip from Canterbury to Dover by bus

Why visit Dover for the day?

Dover is a historic English port on the Channel, known for the White Cliffs and Dover Castle. Its seafront setting, maritime character, and wartime past give the town a practical, historic feel.

How to get from Canterbury to Dover by bus?

There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 13 miles (22 km) distance in 55m.

A view of Whitstable

Day trip from Canterbury to Whitstable by bus

Why visit Whitstable for the day?

Whitstable is a north Kent seaside town best known for its oyster heritage and working harbor. Its shingle beach, beach huts, seafood culture, and creative local scene give it a relaxed maritime feel.

How to get from Canterbury to Whitstable by bus?

The earliest bus runs at 04:20, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 6 miles (10 km) distance in 20m.

A view of Margate

Day trip from Canterbury to Margate by bus

Why visit Margate for the day?

Margate is a Kent seaside town known for its sandy beach, Turner Contemporary, and revived old town. It blends classic British resort character with galleries, arcades, and a growing creative scene.

How to get from Canterbury to Margate by bus?

There are 8 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 14 miles (24 km) distance in 30m.

A view of Folkestone

Day trip from Canterbury to Folkestone by bus

Why visit Folkestone for the day?

Folkestone is a seaside town in southeast England known for its harbor, creative quarter, and Channel views. Its mix of Victorian streets, contemporary art, and coastal walks gives it a relaxed but lively character.

How to get from Canterbury to Folkestone by bus?

There are 8 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:01, the last at 23:11. The fastest bus covers the 14 miles (23 km) distance in 37m.

Bus to Canterbury

Placed in the county of Kent, Canterbury is a lively city that is known for its medieval architecture and bustling markets. You will find that there are several different bus stops in this town, including Canterbury Bus Station, which is one of the primary stops in the city, as well as the station that is at the University of Kent. Canterbury is considered to be one of the main cities in the United Kingdom, so there are many domestic buses that arrive in this city. If you’re interested in booking a bus to Canterbury, there are many different departure cities for you to choose from, including major towns such as London and Paris.

National Express to Canterbury

Known for being one of the largest travel providers in the United Kingdom, National Express services numerous domestic buses to Canterbury. Ever since it was founded in the 90s, this company has been offering journeys all across the country. Its services are not just limited to buses, but also include trams and trains. When you book a bus to Canterbury that is operated by National Express, you can expect your coach to typically arrive at Canterbury Bus Station.

FlixBus to Canterbury

Those that book a bus to Canterbury that departs from outside of the United Kingdom can expect for their journey to most likely be serviced by FlixBus. Originally a German brand that was founded in 2011, FlixBus has become one of the largest transport companies in all of Europe. It works in conjunction with regional bus companies and offers hundreds of daily voyages to over 2,500 different travel destinations. Similar to trips that are serviced by National Express, buses to Canterbury that are operated by FlixBus will normally arrive at Canterbury Bus Station.

Canterburry River Housese. Source : Shutterstock

Main bus stations in Canterbury

Buses to Canterbury, including those operated by National Express and FlixBus, normally arrive at one of the two major bus stations in the city, which are known as Canterbury Bus Station and the University of Kent. Canterbury Bus Station is the largest bus stop in the city and is placed around 0.5 miles (0.8 km) north of the city center. If you need to travel to the city center from this bus station, it is usually best to walk, as the journey will take you less than 10min in total.

The bus station at the University of Kent is located approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north of Canterbury’s city center. To travel between these two destinations, you can walk, which will normally take you around 25 to 30min. Public transportation is also an option, such as bus line 5, and this will take you approximately 10 to 15min in total.

There are a few different services and facilities that passengers are welcome to take advantage of at each of these stations. For example, both stations have designated seating areas that travelers can rest at, as well as outlets to charge their portable electronic devices. Public restrooms are also available, as well as drinking fountains. At Canterbury Bus Station, there are places to purchase light snacks and refreshments in case you find that you are hungry after your bus to the city.

Onboard facilities London

Whether you’re traveling with National Express or FlixBus, there are certain perks and facilities that you will be provided with during your journey. The buses that are operated by both of these companies usually have public toilets on board. Depending on the specific bus that will be used for your journey, you may even be able to purchase snacks and drinks during the trip.

You will be provided with a comfortable seat that reclines and includes plenty of legroom, and many of the buses that are used will even have an outlet next to each seat. Almost every bus is equipped with free and unlimited Wi-Fi, making it easy for you to stay entertained and connected during your journey.

When you travel on a bus to Canterbury that is operated by National Express, you will also have access to the company’s personal entertainment system, which is known as VUER. It’s possible to connect to VUER with any personal electronic device, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Once you have successfully connected to the system, you will have access to a selection of free media, ranging from television shows to news programs and films.

FlixBus also has its own personal entertainment system, which is known as FLIXtainment Onboard Entertainment. Once you have connected to your bus’ Wi-Fi, you can access the entertainment portal through the FlixBus website. In this portal, you will find films, television shows, news programs, and some radio stations.

Bus tickets to Canterbury: useful to know

When you book a bus to Canterbury that is offered through National Express, you have the choice of either printing a physical copy of your ticket and providing it to the driver, or having a digital version instead. If you decide that you would prefer to have a digital version on your phone, you will receive it via email, and it will contain a barcode that will be scanned by your driver.

FlixBus also allows customers to provide electronic versions of their tickets, rather than being obligated to print out their reservation. Keep in mind that when you travel with each of these companies, you will be required to present an official form of identification that has the same name that is included on your bus ticket. Booking your reservation through Omio is a simple and straightforward process, and you can even conveniently store all of your tickets in your Omio account.

Canterburry Cathedral Night. Source : Shutterstock

To Canterbury by bus - travel tips

Visitors travel to Canterbury for a variety of different reasons, including to visit its famous attractions and for work-related purposes. It also has several major universities, making it a popular place for students. When spending time in Canterbury, you can travel throughout the city with its extensive public transportation system. Each neighborhood is well connected to the local bus system, making it easy to travel to any destination.

Canterbury is filled with interesting things to see and do, and it has something for every type of traveler. A trip to the city wouldn’t be complete without paying a visit to the famous Canterbury Cathedral. Avid readers will want to make sure that they go to the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, a library and art gallery that can be found in the city center.

If you enjoy history, pay a visit to the Canterbury Roman Museum, which is located in the remains of a Roman courtyard house. Don’t forget to spend some time outdoors in the city’s lush greenery, either at the Westgate Gardens or the Dane John Gardens. Every year, there is the Canterbury Festival that lasts for two weeks and has a variety of performances, concerts, lectures, and family-friendly activities that visitors of all ages are sure to enjoy.

If you’re an art enthusiast, there is the popular Stark Gallery, which is located in downtown Canterbury and features a variety of paintings and sculptures. A unique way to learn about the region and its history is by going to the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, which dates back to the 1300s and now has its own escape room.

Bus providers: National Express to BerlinTravel to Canterbury on National Express buses with Omio. When comparing schedules and tickets, we will also show you other options with multiple connections or other travel modes if they’re available.

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 10m
Cheapest Price
$13
National Express frequency
16 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.

bus station information and services

Bus stops in Canterbury

Check where to Canterbury buses depart and arrive, plus the main bus station and stop details for this route.

Canterbury, Bus StationCanterbury bus station, Canterbury CT1 2SY, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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 KingdomWifiParkingATMAccessibilityWC
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.

Canterbury, Bus Station
City-centre transport

Getting to Canterbury, Bus Station from Canterbury city centre

Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · $4 · every ~22 min

Buses to Canterbury: related information

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

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