- Must visit
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Victorian mansion housing Luton's main museum and gallery, covering local history, hat making, and decorative arts in a landscaped park setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Colchester to Luton
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$57
Average price
$59
Fastest journey
3 h
Average duration
3 h 39 m
Buses per day
12
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 $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Colchester to Luton without transferring at least once.
NX717 · NX7372:10 PM4h45Colchester, East Hill / High Street6:55 PMLuton, Station Interchange$571One-way1 transfer- NX717 · NX7376:40 PM5h15Colchester, East Hill / High Street11:55 PMLuton, Station Interchange$571One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX73711:55 AM4h00Colchester, East Hill / High Street3:55 PMLuton, Station Interchange$571One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7374:40 PM4h45Colchester, East Hill / High Street9:25 PMLuton, Station Interchange$571One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7378:50 AM4h35Colchester, East Hill / High Street1:25 PMLuton, Station Interchange$571One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7375:35 AM3h00Colchester, East Hill / High Street8:35 AMLuton, London Luton Airport Bus Station$601One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7375:35 AM3h20Colchester, East Hill / High Street8:55 AMLuton, Station Interchange$571One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX73711:55 AM3h40Colchester, East Hill / High Street3:35 PMLuton, London Luton Airport Bus Station$601One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX73711:55 AM4h00Colchester, East Hill / High Street3:55 PMLuton, Station Interchange$571One-way1 transfer
- NX717 · NX7378:50 AM4h15Colchester, East Hill / High Street1:05 PMLuton, London Luton Airport Bus Station$601One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Colchester to Luton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, and a train costs an average of $36.
Distance: 56 miles (91 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$47 Average price Cheapest | $71 Average price | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 14m Average total duration 2h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Luton is a bus with an average price of $47 (€39).
This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Luton:
A bus is $24 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Luton costing on average $71 (€58).
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Luton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 50m.
Other travel options to Luton take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Luton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Luton 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 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 08:35AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
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 03:35PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
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, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 2:10 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 4h25 | 6:35 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 2:10 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 4h45 | 6:55 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 4:40 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 4h45 | 9:25 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 4:40 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 4h25 | 9:05 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 6:40 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 5h15 | 11:55 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 6:40 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 4h55 | 11:35 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 5:35 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 3h00 | 8:35 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | 5:35 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 3h20 | 8:55 AM Luton, Station Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | 8:50 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 4h35 | 1:25 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 8:50 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 4h15 | 1:05 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | On time 11:55 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 3h40 | 3:35 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX717 · NX737 | 11:55 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 4h00 | 3:55 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Luton 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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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.
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)
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.
- Recommended
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Museum and gardens with local history displays, carriages, and the period Mossman Collection. A strong family-friendly introduction to Luton's heritage.
- Recommended
The Higgins Bedford
Major nearby art gallery and museum often visited from Luton for its fine art, local history, and rotating exhibitions. Worth considering for a wider cultural day trip.
- Must visit
Wardown Park
Luton's best-known park, combining lakeside walks, open lawns, and the museum house. A top everyday local favorite and easy first stop.
- Recommended
Stockwood Park
Large park with open green space, gardens, golf facilities, and access to the discovery centre. Popular for relaxed walks and family visits.
- Recommended
High Town
Creative neighborhood known for independent spirit, murals, studios, and a more local side of Luton that has gained popularity in recent years.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A traditional Bedfordshire pastry with a savory filling at one end and a sweet filling at the other, created as a hearty farmworker meal from the area around Luton.
Lardy Cake
A rich local baked treat made with bread dough, dried fruit, sugar, and lard, long associated with Bedfordshire and nearby counties.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Bedfordshire Plum Cheese
A regional fruit preserve made from plums rather than dairy, traditionally served with cold meats, bread, or cheese boards in Bedfordshire.
Wigmore Fish Restaurant
A long-established local favorite known for classic fish and chips, generous portions, and a relaxed casual atmosphere.
The Brache Beefeater
A reliable casual dining venue serving grilled meats, burgers, and British pub staples in a family-friendly setting.
Off The Wall
A well-known central Luton pub and restaurant with classic British dishes, drinks, and a lively social atmosphere.
Pound sterling
Generally cheaper than central London, but airport-area hotels and some transport can raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. No tip needed for pubs, cafes, or takeaway.
Traveline
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.80
To the city center
Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney) -> Luton Station Interchange
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Bus fares are capped, and contactless card payment is generally accepted on local buses in Luton.
- Use the operator or journey-planning app before travel, as routes and frequencies can vary by time of day.
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 $47 (€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.
A trip to Luton from Colchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Colchester to Luton is December.
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.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Luton are:
- Stockwood Discovery Centre, a museum featuring local history exhibits, gardens, and a collection of horse-drawn carriages
- Wardown House Museum and Gallery, a Victorian mansion offering art exhibitions and insights into Luton's history
- Luton Hoo Estate, a historic country house with expansive gardens and a golf course
- Whipsnade Zoo, a large zoo home to a variety of animals and conservation programs
- The Hat Factory Arts Centre, a cultural venue hosting performances, workshops, and art exhibitions.
The best things to do in Luton include:
- The Mall Luton, a large shopping center with a variety of retail stores and dining options
- Woodside Animal Farm, a family-friendly attraction featuring a range of animals, play areas, and seasonal events
- Luton Indoor Market, a bustling market offering a variety of goods from fresh produce to unique crafts
- Stockwood Park, a large public park perfect for picnics, walks, and outdoor sports
- The Galaxy, an entertainment complex featuring a cinema, bowling alley, and restaurants.
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.
Since neither Colchester nor Luton 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Luton 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 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
Colchester
Luton
The major bus station for departures in Colchester is Colchester, East Hill / High Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Colchester, East Hill / High Street for your trip from Colchester to Luton.
Colchester, East Hill / High Street
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Luton is Luton, Station Interchange. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Luton, Station Interchange for your trip to Luton from Colchester.
Luton, Station Interchange
information
Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney)
information
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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