- Must visit
Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
Museum inside the Royal Pavilion Estate covering Brighton’s history, fashion, art, and design in one of the city’s core heritage sites.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Colchester to Brighton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$65
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$65
Fastest journey on Sep 19
7 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
7 h 55 m
Buses on Sep 19
1
Distance
138 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Colchester to Brighton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Brighton will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 buses from Colchester to Brighton, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct buses cover the 138 km distance in an average of 7 h 55 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 55 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest buses will take 7 h 55 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.
5:40 PM7h55Colchester1:35 AMBrighton$651One-way0 transfers
- 5:40 PM7h55Colchester1:35 AMBrighton$651One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Colchester to Brighton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Brighton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $83 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 54m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $83, while a train costs an average of $104.
Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$83 Average price Cheapest | $104 Average price | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 42m Average total duration 5h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 54m Average total duration Fastest 2h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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 Colchester to Brighton is a bus with an average price of $83.
This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Brighton:
A bus is $21 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Brighton costing on average $104.
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Brighton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 24m.
Other travel options to Brighton take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Brighton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Brighton 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 $83 compared to roughly $45 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-37.92. The journey takes 5h 12m versus 2h 5m 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.
Colchester to Brighton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:35AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 09:52PM | Duration 7h42 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 02:45AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 02:45AM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 03:35AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Live departures
Colchester to Brighton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Brighton buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:40 PM Colchester | 7h55 | 1:35 AM Brighton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Brighton 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.
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Sep 19
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Why should you book Colchester to Brighton buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Colchester to Brighton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Brighton.
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 Colchester to Brighton.
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 Colchester to Brighton.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Colchester to Brighton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Colchester to Brighton run on average 27 times per day, taking around 5h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $53 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:35, the last at 22:55. The fastest bus covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 4h 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 85 miles (138 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 |
Buses per day 27 |
Fastest bus 4h 20m |
First bus 2:35 AM |
Last bus 10:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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 from Colchester to BrightonYou can travel by bus between Colchester to Brighton with National Express for as low as $53. 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
4h 20m
Cheapest National Express Price
$53
National Express frequency
27 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 Brighton
Things to do in Brighton
Discover the best of Brighton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brighton trip today.
- Recommended
Preston Manor
Elegant historic house displaying decorative art, period interiors, and changing exhibitions. Strong choice for design and Regency culture.
- Recommended
Hove Museum of Creativity
Leading contemporary art gallery in the Royal Pavilion Estate, showing international artists and thought-provoking modern exhibitions.
- Must visit
The Lanes
Historic maze of narrow alleys filled with independent shops and old buildings. Essential for atmosphere, strolling, and Brighton character.
- Must visit
North Laine
Open-air shopping district known for colourful streets, murals, markets, and creative independent culture. Popular with locals and visitors alike.
- Must visit
Brighton Seafront
Wide seafront promenade ideal for walking, cycling, and sea views, linking major Brighton attractions along the coast.
Fish And Chips
Fresh local cod or haddock in crisp batter with chips. A British seaside staple strongly associated with Brighton’s beachfront food culture.
- Gluten-free
Kippers
Kippers are herring split, salted and cold-smoked. Traditionally eaten for breakfast on the south coast and valued for their rich smoky flavour.
Sussex Beef And Ale Stew
A Sussex pub classic of slow-braised beef cooked in dark ale, often with root vegetables. It reflects the county’s strong brewing and farming traditions.
Etch
Elegant fine dining destination in The Lanes serving refined tasting menus with strong local sourcing and a calm intimate atmosphere.
Fatto A Mano
Well-known independent pizzeria using wood-fired ovens and quality toppings. Casual, lively and popular for a relaxed meal near the seafront.
64 Degrees
Acclaimed modern British restaurant with tasting menus, polished service and creative seasonal cooking in central Brighton.
Pound sterling (£)
Brighton is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels, seafront dining, and attractions add up, though buses and casual eats help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise 10-12.5% is standard for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafes is optional.
FAQs: Bus from Colchester to Brighton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Brighton 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 Brighton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Colchester to Brighton can start from as little as $53 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Colchester to Brighton is $83 ; 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 Brighton is 4h 20m to travel the 85 miles (138 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 Brighton leaves at 2:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Colchester to Brighton leaves at 10:55 PM.
There are 27 buses a day from Colchester to Brighton 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 Brighton, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Brighton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Colchester and Brighton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Colchester , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Colchester, East Hill / High Street, Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) . When arriving in Brighton , you can end your journey in bus stations like Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church), Brighton, Preston Circus, Brighton, Old Steine South (Stop Z), Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Colchester, East Hill / High Street, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Brighton from Colchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Colchester to Brighton is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Brighton including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Colchester to Brighton for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Colchester to Brighton:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Brighton are:
- Royal Pavilion, an exotic palace with Indian and Chinese architectural influences and lavish interiors
- Brighton Pier, a historic pier offering amusement rides, arcade games, and seaside views
- Brighton Beach, a popular pebble beach known for its vibrant atmosphere and water sports
- The Lanes, a maze of narrow streets filled with independent shops, cafes, and antique stores
- Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, a cultural venue featuring diverse exhibits on art, history, and design.
The best things to do in Brighton include:
- Explore the vibrant street art scene in Brighton, with guided tours available to discover hidden murals and graffiti
- Visit the British Airways i360, a futuristic observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and coastline
- Enjoy a performance at the Brighton Dome, a renowned venue hosting music, theatre, and dance events
- Take a scenic walk along the Undercliff Walk, a picturesque path offering stunning views of the cliffs and sea
- Experience the nightlife in Brighton's bustling bars and clubs, known for their lively atmosphere and diverse music scenes.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Colchester to Brighton 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.
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 Brighton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Colchester to Brighton:
- 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 Brighton:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Colchester to Brighton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Colchester to Brighton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Colchester to Brighton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Colchester to Brighton with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Colchester nor Brighton 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 Brighton 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 Brighton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the pier, the Lanes, and busy streets. Scams involving overcharging in taxis and unlicensed cabs are reported, so it’s advisable to use licensed services or pre-book transportation. Additionally, travelers should be wary of fake charity collectors and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Brighton
Most Colchester to Brighton buses use the Colchester, East Hill / High Street to Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church) station pair, with some services arriving at Brighton, Preston Circus. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Brighton 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 Brighton
Which Colchester station do buses to Brighton leave from?
Buses from Colchester to Brighton leave from Colchester, East Hill / High Street. The station is from Colchester city centre at Colchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK.
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 · $4 · 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.
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station)Colchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) from Colchester city centre
Bus74B, 107, 105, 43 · 3m · $4 · every ~5 min
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) bus station facilities and services
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) 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, Stanwell Street (Bus station). ATMs are available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station): Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Which Brighton station do buses from Colchester arrive at?
Buses from Colchester to Brighton most often arrive at Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church). Some services arrive at Brighton, Preston Circus, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Brighton arrival station.
Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church)St Peters Church, Brighton and Hove, Brighton, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church) from Brighton city centre
Bus48, 5B, 98, 79, 20 · 10m · $2 · every ~11 min
Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church) bus station facilities and services
Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church) 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 Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church). ATMs are available at Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brighton, York Place (St Peter's Church): Basic accessibility features available.
Brighton, Preston CircusBrighton (Preston Circus), Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4QE, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Brighton, Preston Circus from Brighton city centre
Bus17 · 6m · $2 · every ~5 min
Brighton, Preston Circus bus station facilities and services
Brighton, Preston Circus 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 Brighton, Preston Circus. ATMs are available at Brighton, Preston Circus.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Brighton, Preston Circus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Brighton, Preston Circus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brighton, Preston Circus: Buses with accessibility features serve this stop.
Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley RoadBrighton, Queens Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3XP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road from Brighton city centre
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Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road bus station facilities and services
Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snacks and drinks available at nearby shops.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road. ATMs are available at Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brighton Railway Station - Stroudley Road: Station accessible with ramps and lifts.
Most popular bus connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Brighton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Brighton and Colchester
Most popular bus connections to Brighton
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