- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Colchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 49m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €52 but you can travel from only €52 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:35, the last at 20:18. The fastest bus covers the 177 miles (285 km) distance in 5h 0m.
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 €52
Distance 177 miles (285 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price €52 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 5h 0m |
First bus 2:35 AM |
Last bus 8:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 28 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 €52
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Colchester.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Colchester can start from as little as €52 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Colchester is €88 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Cardiff to Colchester leaves at 2:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Colchester leaves at 8:18 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Cardiff to Colchester which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Cardiff to Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price €32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price €37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 10h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €60 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Colchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Colchester buses for today, Tuesday, November 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 10:30 AM Cardiff | 8h20 | 6:50 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Colchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Colchester.
Bus providers: National Express from Cardiff to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Colchester with National Express for as low as €52. 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
5h 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
€52
National Express frequency
7 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Cardiff 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 Cardiff and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff 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, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cardiff to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Colchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Complete guide to Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Military Museum
Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.
- Recommended
Colchester Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Colchester East Hill / High Street, Colchester -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Colchester. You can also use the First Bus app for tickets and live times.
- Colchester town centre is walkable, so buses are most useful for longer trips such as Colchester Station or outlying areas.
Plan your visit to Colchester
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Colchester.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cardiff to Colchester
Most Cardiff to Colchester buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Colchester, East Hill / High Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Colchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cardiff
Arrival bus stations in Colchester
Which Cardiff station do buses to Colchester leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Colchester leave from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · €2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Which Colchester station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Colchester arrive at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. Colchester, East Hill / High Street is from Colchester city centre.
Colchester, East Hill / High StreetColchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · €3 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · €1 · every ~3 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street bus station facilities and services
Colchester, East Hill / High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. ATMs are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Limited accessibility features.
Bus stations for Cardiff to Colchester
Check bus stations information for Cardiff and Colchester, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Colchester, East Hill / High Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
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