- Must visit
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Luton's main museum in a Victorian mansion, covering local history, hats, lace, and changing exhibitions in a well-kept park setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Colchester to Luton
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$39
Average price
$41
Fastest journey
5 h
Average duration
5 h 8 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
91 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Colchester to Luton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Luton will cost around $41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Colchester for Luton on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 91 km distance in an average of 5 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 5 h 15 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.
2:10 PM5h00Colchester7:10 PMLuton$391One-way0 transfers- 5:40 PM5h15Colchester10:55 PMLuton$421One-way0 transfers
- 2:10 PM5h00Colchester7:10 PMLuton$391One-way0 transfers
- 5:40 PM5h15Colchester10:55 PMLuton$421One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Colchester to Luton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Colchester to Luton run on average 14 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:25, the last at 22:12. The fastest bus covers the 56 miles (91 km) distance in 3h 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 $36 (€29)
Distance 56 miles (91 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 3h 20m |
First bus 2:25 AM |
Last bus 10:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 7 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 $36 (€29)
Colchester to Luton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:35AM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 11:40PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $57 |
Live departures
Colchester to Luton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Luton buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX717 · NX737 | 6:40 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 5h00 | 11:40 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | 6:40 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 5h19 | 11:59 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 2:10 PM Colchester | 5h00 | 7:10 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Colchester to Luton buses with Omio?
National Express as well as First Essex, Hedingham & Chambers, Arriva UK and more offer buses services from Colchester to Luton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Luton.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of First Essex, Hedingham & Chambers or Arriva UK to find the best option for your trip from Colchester to Luton.
- 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 Luton.
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 Luton.
Bus providers: National Express, First Essex, Hedingham & Chambers, Arriva UK from Colchester to LutonYou can travel by bus between Colchester to Luton with National Express, First Essex, Hedingham & Chambers, Arriva UK for as low as $36 (€29). 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
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
National Express frequency
5 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.
First Essex
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 11m
First Essex frequency
2 a day
Hedingham & Chambers
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 52m
Hedingham & Chambers frequency
2 a day
Arriva UK
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 32m
Arriva UK frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Luton
Things to do in Luton
Discover the best of Luton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Luton trip today.
- Must visit
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Museum complex with rural life displays, carriages, gardens, and archaeology, making it one of Luton's strongest family-friendly heritage sites.
- Recommended
The Hat Factory at Stockwood Discovery Centre
Working hat factory museum explaining Luton's famous hat-making trade through machinery, displays, and guided tours in an authentic setting.
- Must visit
Wardown Park
Large formal park with lakes, bridges, museum, and broad lawns, ideal for relaxing walks and one of Luton's best-loved green spaces.
- Recommended
Market Hill
Historic town centre square beside St Mary's Church, valued for events, heritage surroundings, and an authentic sense of old Luton.
- Recommended
Stockwood Park
Extensive parkland with gardens, play areas, and museum access, popular for family walks and exploring Luton's former estate landscape.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A Bedfordshire pastry with chopped meat, suet, onions and seasoning. It is closely tied to the county around Luton and is a classic local comfort food.
- Vegetarian
Chocolate Tooth Pudding
A suet dumpling stuffed with currants or jam. Long associated with Bedfordshire home cooking, it is a traditional local pudding served warm.
- Vegetarian
Bedfordshire Fruit Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit and spices. It is a historic Bedfordshire bake often made for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Meah Restaurant
Established Turkish restaurant known for grilled meats, meze and generous portions. Casual atmosphere and dependable local favourite.
Monna Lisa
Well-known Indian restaurant with polished service and a long-standing reputation. Popular for classic curries in a smart but relaxed setting.
The Luton Dosa
Popular South Indian venue serving dosas, idli and vegetarian dishes. Simple setting, strong reputation and reliable regional flavours.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels near the airport can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 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
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service may be included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
FAQs: Bus from Colchester to Luton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Luton 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 Luton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Colchester to Luton can start from as little as $38 (€31) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Colchester to Luton is $48 (€39) ; 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 Luton is 3h 20m to travel the 56 miles (91 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 Luton leaves at 2:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Colchester to Luton leaves at 10:12 PM.
There are 14 buses a day from Colchester to Luton which require at least one change with National Express, First Essex, Hedingham & Chambers, Arriva UK. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Colchester to Luton, you can count on National Express, First Essex, Hedingham & Chambers, Arriva UK for the best way to get you to Luton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Colchester and Luton 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, Marks Tey, A120, Capel St Mary, Ipswich Road . When arriving in Luton , you can end your journey in bus stations like Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station, Luton, Station Interchange, Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney) .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 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station, located 2 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Luton including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Colchester to Luton:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Colchester to Luton for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Colchester to Luton 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 Luton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Colchester to Luton:
- 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 Luton:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Colchester to Luton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Colchester to Luton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Colchester to Luton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Colchester to Luton with the following bus company: National Express.
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 Luton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as Luton Airport and the town center. Taxi scams can occur, so using licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation is advised. Be wary of unofficial currency exchange services offering poor rates or counterfeit notes. Staying vigilant in busy spots and securing personal belongings helps 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 Luton
Most Colchester to Luton buses use the Colchester, East Hill / High Street to Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Luton, Station Interchange. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Luton 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 Luton
Which Colchester station do buses to Luton leave from?
Buses from Colchester to Luton 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.
Which Luton station do buses from Colchester arrive at?
Buses from Colchester to Luton most often arrive at Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station. Some services arrive at Luton, Station Interchange, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Luton arrival station.
Luton, Station InterchangeLuton Station Interchange, Luton LU1 2WG, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton, Station Interchange from Luton city centre
Bus17 · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min
Luton, Station Interchange bus station facilities and services
Luton, Station Interchange 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 fast food options nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
WiFi is available at nearby facilities. ATMs are aTM available within short walking distance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton, Station Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton, Station Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton, Station Interchange: Ramps and accessible routes available for wheelchairs.
Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney)Dunstable Rd, Luton, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) from Luton city centre
Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) is 3 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:
BusZ · 11m · $2 · every ~15 min
A · 1h 5m · $2 · every ~13 min
Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) bus station facilities and services
Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) 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 Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney). ATMs are available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney): Limited accessibility.
Most popular bus connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Luton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Luton and Colchester
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