- Must visit
SeaCity Museum
Southampton's flagship museum tells the city's story from Roman origins to Titanic and aviation, with strong local collections and family displays.
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Gravesend to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $30 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 38m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $30, while a train costs an average of $85.
Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$30 Average price Cheapest | $85 Average price | $39 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 50m Average total duration 4h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 38m Average total duration Fastest 2h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Gravesend to Southampton:
A bus is $55 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gravesend to Southampton costing on average $85.
Other travel options to Southampton take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 20m.
Tickets start at around $30 compared to roughly $39 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $9. The journey takes 4h 20m versus 2h 5m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
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.
Buses from Gravesend to Southampton run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:40, the last at 21:00. The fastest bus covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 4h 0m.
Distance 85 miles (138 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 4h 0m |
First bus 5:40 AM |
Last bus 9:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Southampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southampton trip today.
Southampton's flagship museum tells the city's story from Roman origins to Titanic and aviation, with strong local collections and family displays.
Restored Tudor home and remains of a Norman house reveal centuries of domestic and maritime history in Southampton's atmospheric Old Town.
Art gallery with a respected collection spanning old masters to contemporary works, plus changing exhibitions in the Cultural Quarter.
Historic quarter enclosed by medieval walls, packed with lanes, pubs, museums, and merchant houses that showcase Southampton's oldest character.
Large central park popular for walks, events, and city views, linking major cultural venues with green space in the heart of Southampton.
Leafy Victorian park with formal gardens, memorials, and broad lawns. It is ideal for a break between museums and shopping streets.
A fresh oyster from nearby Hampshire waters, long linked to the Solent coast and traditionally eaten raw with lemon.
White fish coated in beer batter and fried, then served with chips. A classic British seaside meal popular in Southampton pubs and takeaways.
Hampshire pork sausages, often made with local meat and served with mash. A hearty pub staple across Southampton and the wider county.
Well-regarded craft brewery and taproom pouring local beers in a casual industrial space with a strong local following.
Refined modern British dining in a smart, intimate setting. Best known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service.
Historic pub in the old town serving cask ales and classic British dishes in a traditional, atmospheric setting.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transport are typical for a mid-sized English city.
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gravesend to Southampton 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 Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Gravesend to Southampton buses use the Dartford, Bluewater Shopping Centre to Southampton, Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Gravesend and Southampton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Southampton, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café Express (in the station), Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance for cash withdrawals.
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Coach Station.
Available at Southampton, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
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