Colchester to Bournemouth bus with National Express

Sun, Jun 21
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2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Colchester to Bournemouth

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, and a train costs an average of $33.

Distance: 144 miles (233 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$55

Average price

Cheapest

$82

Average price

$59

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 10m

Average total duration

5h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

National Express

Most popular bus company

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Colchester to Bournemouth is a bus with an average price of $55 (€45).

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

A bus is $27 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Bournemouth costing on average $82 (€67).

The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Bournemouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 14m.

Other travel options to Bournemouth take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 40m.

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

Colchester to Bournemouth Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
11:55PM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$66
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:40PM
Arrival Time
12:45AM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$44

Compare prices and tickets Colchester 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Colchester to Bournemouth buses with Omio?

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

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 Colchester to Bournemouth.

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 Colchester to Bournemouth.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Colchester to Bournemouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Colchester to Bournemouth run on average 10 times per day, taking around 5h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 01:32, the last at 21:27. The fastest bus covers the 144 miles (233 km) distance in 7h 5m.

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 $33 (€27)
Distance
144 miles (233 km)
Average bus duration
5h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$44 (€36)
Buses per day
10
Fastest bus
7h 5m
First bus
1:32 AM
Last bus
9:27 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Best time to book
35 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 $33 (€27)

Bus providers: National Express from Colchester to BournemouthYou can travel by bus between Colchester to Bournemouth with National Express for as low as $33 (€27). 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
7h 5m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
National Express frequency
9 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.
Learn more about National Express

FAQs: Bus from Colchester to Bournemouth

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Colchester to Bournemouth can start from as little as $44 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Colchester to Bournemouth is $55 (€45) ; 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 Colchester to Bournemouth is 7h 5m to travel the 144 miles (233 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 Colchester to Bournemouth leaves at 1:32 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Colchester to Bournemouth leaves at 9:27 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Colchester to Bournemouth which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Colchester to Bournemouth, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Bournemouth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Colchester and Bournemouth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bournemouth from Colchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Colchester to Bournemouth is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Bournemouth including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Colchester to Bournemouth:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Colchester to Bournemouth for bus company National Express.
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 Colchester 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.
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 Colchester to Bournemouth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Colchester to Bournemouth:
  • 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 Colchester to Bournemouth:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Colchester to Bournemouth.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Colchester to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Colchester to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Colchester to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Colchester 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 Colchester 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 Colchester to Bournemouth

Most Colchester to Bournemouth buses use the Colchester, East Hill / High Street to Bournemouth, Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Bournemouth bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Colchester
Arrival bus stations in Bournemouth
Colchester, East Hill / High Street
City-centre transport

Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre

Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · $4 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · $1 · every ~3 min

More options for your journey from Colchester to Bournemouth

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