- Must visit
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum with natural history, archaeology, art, and local collections in a grand building. A top all-round introduction to Bristol.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Colchester to Bristol
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14
Cheapest price on Sep 14
$48
Average ticket price on Sep 14
$61
Fastest journey on Sep 14
6 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 14
7 h 10 m
Buses on Sep 14
3
Distance
246 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Colchester to Bristol is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Bristol will cost around $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast buses
On Mon, Sep 14, we found 3 buses from Colchester to Bristol, including 3 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 14 the direct buses cover the 246 km distance in an average of 7 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 50 m .
On Mon, Sep 14 the slowest buses will take 7 h 30 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.
4:30 PM7h10Colchester11:40 PMBristol$481One-way0 transfers- 12:10 PM7h30Colchester7:40 PMBristol$651One-way0 transfers
- 7:30 PM6h50Colchester2:20 AMBristol$711One-way0 transfers
- 7:30 PM6h50Colchester2:20 AMBristol$711One-way0 transfers
- 4:30 PM7h10Colchester11:40 PMBristol$481One-way0 transfers
- 12:10 PM7h30Colchester7:40 PMBristol$651One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Colchester to Bristol
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $84 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 12m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $84, while a train costs an average of $116.
Distance: 152 miles (246 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$84 Average price Cheapest | $116 Average price | $80 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 8m Average total duration 5h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Bristol is a bus with an average price of $84 (€68).
This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Bristol:
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Bristol costing on average $116 (€94).
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Bristol is by train with an average journey time of 2h 42m.
Other travel options to Bristol take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Bristol including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Bristol 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 $84 (€68) compared to roughly $80 (€64) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-4.89 (€-3.96). The journey takes 5h 38m versus 3h 23m 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 Bristol Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 11:40PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $107 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 12:05AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $68 |
Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Bristol 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.
Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Why should you book Colchester to Bristol buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Colchester to Bristol.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Bristol.
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 Bristol.
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 Bristol.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Colchester to Bristol
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Colchester to Bristol run on average 14 times per day, taking around 5h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $64 (€52) but you can travel from only $60 (€48) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:35, the last at 21:35. The fastest bus covers the 152 miles (246 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $60 (€48)
Distance 152 miles (246 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€52) |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 4h 20m |
First bus 2:35 AM |
Last bus 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $60 (€48)
Bus providers: National Express from Colchester to BristolYou can travel by bus between Colchester to Bristol with National Express for as low as $60 (€48). 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
$64 (€52)
National Express frequency
11 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 Bristol
Things to do in Bristol
Discover the best of Bristol — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bristol trip today.
- Must visit
SS Great Britain
Historic passenger ship designed by Brunel. Explore decks, cabins, and dockside museum displays on one of Bristol’s most famous heritage attractions.
- Must visit
M Shed
Purpose-built city history museum beside the floating harbour. It tells Bristol’s story through people, trade, protest, and everyday life.
- Must visit
Bristol Harbour
Historic waterfront district with museums, boats, walks, and lively public spaces. Ideal for first-time visitors wanting Bristol’s signature atmosphere.
- Must visit
Clifton
Elegant Georgian neighborhood of terraces, crescents, and village-like streets. A classic base for architecture, walks, and access to the bridge.
- Must visit
Clifton Down
Panoramic viewpoint above the Avon Gorge near the suspension bridge. One of Bristol’s best free spots for dramatic landscapes and sunset photos.
Bristol Beef Sandwich
A split-top white roll filled with roast beef, onions and gravy. A Bristol classic tied to the city’s old market and dockside workers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Bristol Blue Cheese
Bristol’s own blue cheese, made in Somerset and long associated with the city. Rich, creamy and pungent, it reflects the region’s historic cheese trade.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
West Country Cider
Dry, still or sparkling cider made from West Country apples. Bristol’s pubs and cider houses make it a defining local drink with deep regional roots.
Box-E
Historic harbourside restaurant in a converted shipping container. Celebrated for local seafood, oysters and relaxed waterside dining.
Bulrush
Michelin-starred fine dining known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and an intimate, special-occasion atmosphere.
The Bristolian
Beloved casual eatery serving mezze and Middle Eastern plates. Lively, affordable and one of Bristol’s longest-established independent favourites.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks. Hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but central stays, attractions, and transport can still add up for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.30
To the city center
Bristol Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) -> Bristol City Centre, Broadmead
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most First Bus services in Bristol; tap a bank card or device when boarding.
- Bristol has no tram or metro system, so most local public transport trips are by bus.
FAQs: Bus from Colchester to Bristol
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Bristol 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 Bristol, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Colchester to Bristol can start from as little as $64 (€52) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Colchester to Bristol is $84 (€68) ; 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 Bristol is 4h 20m to travel the 152 miles (246 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 Bristol leaves at 2:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Colchester to Bristol leaves at 9:35 PM.
There are 14 buses a day from Colchester to Bristol 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 Bristol, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Bristol. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Colchester and Bristol 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 . When arriving in Bristol , you can end your journey in bus stations like Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St), Bristol, University Queens Road, Bristol, Clifton Down, Bristol, Blackboy Hill .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 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Bristol 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 Bristol is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Bristol including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Colchester to Bristol for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Colchester to Bristol:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bristol are:
- Clifton Suspension Bridge, an iconic 19th-century suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the Avon Gorge
- Bristol Cathedral, a historic cathedral with stunning Gothic architecture and serene gardens
- SS Great Britain, a restored 19th-century passenger steamship and museum located in the Great Western Dockyard
- Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, a museum featuring diverse collections of art, archaeology, and natural history
- St Nicholas Market, a vibrant market with a variety of food stalls, independent shops, and local crafts.
The best things to do in Bristol include:
- Bristol Zoo Gardens, a family-friendly attraction with diverse animal exhibits
- Take a boat tour along the River Avon for unique views of the city
- Explore the street art in the Stokes Croft area, known for its vibrant murals and graffiti
- Visit the Arnolfini, a contemporary arts center with exhibitions and performances
- Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic in Brandon Hill Park, home to the historic Cabot Tower.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Colchester to Bristol 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 Bristol.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Colchester to Bristol:
- 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 Bristol:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Colchester to Bristol.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Colchester to Bristol with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Colchester to Bristol with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Colchester to Bristol with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Colchester nor Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and counterfeit event tickets. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and buy tickets only from official vendors to avoid these issues. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less busy areas.
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 Bristol
Most Colchester to Bristol buses use the Colchester, East Hill / High Street to Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) station pair, with some services arriving at Bristol, University Queens Road. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Bristol 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 Bristol
Which Colchester station do buses to Bristol leave from?
Buses from Colchester to Bristol 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.
Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)Bristol Bus Station (Bay 19), Marlborough Street 15, BS1 3ES
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) from Bristol city centre
Bus76, X6, X1, 39, 75, X9, X4, 73, X39, 522, X6a, X1a · 4m · $2 · every ~156 min
Bristol, University Queens RoadBeacon House, Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1QU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol, University Queens Road from Bristol city centre
Bus72 · 11m · $5 · every ~8 min
Bristol, University Queens Road bus station facilities and services
Bristol, University Queens 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: Cafes and eateries in vicinity.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bristol, University Queens Road. ATMs are aTMs available at nearby locations.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bristol, University Queens Road.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bristol, University Queens Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, University Queens Road: Wheelchair accessible via ramps.
Bristol, Clifton DownBristol Bus Station, Bristol BS1 3LH, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol, Clifton Down from Bristol city centre
Bristol, Clifton Down is 1 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainBristol Temple Meads - Severn Beach, Bristol Temple Meads - Avonmouth, Weston-super-Mare - Severn Beach, Weston-super-Mare - Avonmouth, Taunton - Severn Beach, Weston-super-Mare - Clifton Down · 14m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus2a, 5, 3, 4, 1, 2 · 7m · $5 · every ~91 min
T7 · 10m · every ~2 min
4, 5, 1, 3, 2, 2a · 10m · $5 · every ~91 min
Bristol, Clifton Down bus station facilities and services
Bristol, Clifton Down 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 Bristol, Clifton Down. ATMs are available at Bristol, Clifton Down.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bristol, Clifton Down.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bristol, Clifton Down: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, Clifton Down: Accessible by ramps or lifts.
Most popular bus connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Bristol
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bristol and Colchester
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.
