- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum and gallery, covering local history, archaeology, art, and natural science in a major Victorian institution.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Edinburgh to Ipswich
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$77
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$82
Fastest journey on Sep 19
15 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
15 h 33 m
Buses on Sep 19
2
Distance
518 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Ipswich will cost around $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Ipswich without transferring at least 2 times.
NX598 · NX737 · NX7179:45 PM15h20Edinburgh, Bus Station1:05 PMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)$771One-way2 transfers- NX591 · NX737 · NX71710:35 AM15h45Edinburgh, Bus Station2:20 AMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)$871One-way2 transfers
- NX598 · NX737 · NX7179:45 PM15h20Edinburgh, Bus Station1:05 PMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)$771One-way2 transfers
- NX591 · NX737 · NX71710:35 AM15h45Edinburgh, Bus Station2:20 AMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)$871One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Edinburgh to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $101 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 16m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $101, while a flight costs an average of $351.
Distance: 321 miles (518 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$101 Average price Cheapest | $154 Average price | $351 Average price | $179 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 7m Average total duration 12h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration 5h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Edinburgh to Ipswich is a bus with an average price of $101.
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Ipswich:
A bus is $53 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Ipswich costing on average $154.
A bus is $250 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Ipswich costing on average $351.
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Ipswich is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 16m.
Other travel options to Ipswich take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 35m.
Bus takes on average 12h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Ipswich including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Ipswich 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 $101 compared to roughly $179 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $78. The journey takes 12h 37m versus 7h 24m 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.
Edinburgh to Ipswich Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 15h45 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 15h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 15h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 15h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $64 |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Ipswich bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Ipswich buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:05 PM Edinburgh | 15h00 | 12:05 PM Ipswich | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| NX591 · NX737 · NX717 | 10:35 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 15h45 | 2:20 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Ipswich by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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 Edinburgh to Ipswich buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Edinburgh to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Ipswich.
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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Ipswich.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Ipswich.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Ipswich.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Ipswich run on average 2 times per day, taking around 12h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $71 but you can travel from only $61 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 02:30, the last at 22:05. The fastest bus covers the 321 miles (518 km) distance in 12h 0m.
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
Flight from $61
Distance 321 miles (518 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 12h 0m |
First bus 2:30 AM |
Last bus 10:05 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Flight from $61
Bus providers: National Express from Edinburgh to IpswichYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Ipswich with National Express for as low as $61. 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
12h 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
$71
National Express frequency
2 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 Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Elegant mansion museum in Christchurch Park with period rooms, Ipswich treasures, and changing displays in a beautiful historic setting.
- Recommended
Ipswich Art Gallery
Free contemporary gallery showing regional and national artists. A strong stop for visitors exploring Ipswich’s modern cultural scene.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large historic park with lawns, wooded walks, tennis courts, and mansion views. It is Ipswich’s classic green escape near the centre.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Regenerated marina district with quayside walks, public art, and lively views of boats and historic warehouses day or night.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Main civic square framed by Town Hall and historic buildings. A natural starting point for markets, events, and town-centre sightseeing.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
A traditional Suffolk cured ham, usually served thinly sliced. It is prized for its dry cure and long local heritage in East Anglian food culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Baron Bigod Or Suffolk Blue Cheese
A regional blue cheese made in Suffolk from cow's milk. Its creamy texture and rich, tangy taste make it a classic local cheese board choice.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Coastal Fish
Fresh fish landed from the Suffolk coast, often cod, plaice, or sole. It reflects Ipswich's long trading links with nearby North Sea fishing ports.
The Unruly Pig
Well-known Ipswich pub and dining room serving classic British dishes, local ales, and seasonal produce in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Milsoms Kesgrave Hall
Refined restaurant in nearby Great Bealings with modern British tasting menus, strong Suffolk sourcing, and an elegant country-house setting.
Applaud Coffee
Popular independent venue in the town centre serving brunch, coffee, and modern British plates in a stylish casual space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 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
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) -> Ipswich Town Centre, Ipswich
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless on First Bus services to pay the correct fare automatically.
- Check tickets and live bus times in the First Bus app before travel, as fares and routes can vary by operator.
FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Edinburgh to Ipswich can start from as little as $71 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Edinburgh to Ipswich is $101 ; 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 Edinburgh to Ipswich is 12h 0m to travel the 321 miles (518 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 Edinburgh to Ipswich leaves at 2:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich leaves at 10:05 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Edinburgh to Ipswich which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Ipswich. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Edinburgh and Ipswich and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Edinburgh , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Edinburgh, Bus Station . When arriving in Ipswich , you can end your journey in bus stations like Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema), Capel St Mary, Ipswich Road .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Edinburgh, Bus Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Ipswich from Edinburgh is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 12h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Ipswich including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Ipswich are:
- Ipswich Waterfront, a vibrant area with marinas, restaurants, and historic buildings along the River Orwell
- Christchurch Mansion, a Tudor mansion housing an art gallery and museum with works by Gainsborough and Constable
- Ipswich Museum, featuring exhibits on local history, natural history, and archaeology
- Holywells Park, a scenic park with ponds, woodlands, and a children's play area
- Suffolk Food Hall, a destination for local produce, dining, and views of the Orwell Bridge.
The best things to do in Ipswich include:
- New Wolsey Theatre, a contemporary venue hosting a variety of performances including plays, musicals, and comedy shows
- Orwell Country Park, offering beautiful walking trails and views of the River Orwell
- Ipswich Transport Museum, showcasing a collection of transport and engineering heritage
- DanceEast, a hub for dance performances and workshops
- Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park, a family-friendly attraction with animals, gardens, and a farm shop.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Edinburgh to Ipswich 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 Edinburgh to Ipswich.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh to Ipswich:
- 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 Edinburgh to Ipswich:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Edinburgh to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Edinburgh nor Ipswich 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 Edinburgh to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the town center and markets. Scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation. Travelers should also remain aware of their surroundings at night, as isolated areas may have increased petty crime.
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 Edinburgh to Ipswich
Most Edinburgh to Ipswich buses use the Edinburgh, Bus Station to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Ipswich bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Edinburgh
Arrival bus stations in Ipswich
Which Edinburgh station do buses to Ipswich leave from?
Buses from Edinburgh to Ipswich leave from Edinburgh, Bus Station. The station is from Edinburgh city centre at Elder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · $2 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · $1 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · $5 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Which Ipswich station do buses from Edinburgh arrive at?
Buses from Edinburgh to Ipswich most often arrive at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). Some services arrive at Capel St Mary, Ipswich Road, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Ipswich arrival station.
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) from Ipswich city centre
TRUE
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) bus station facilities and services
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants available near Cardinal Park Cinema.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). ATMs are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Bus stop accessible for wheelchairs.
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ipswich and Edinburgh
Most popular bus connections to Ipswich
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