Ipswich to Colchester bus with National Express

Thu, Sep 10
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Ipswich to Colchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 10

Cheapest price on Sep 10

$10

Average ticket price on Sep 10

$10

Fastest journey on Sep 10

35 m

Average journey duration on Sep 10

38 m

Buses on Sep 10

6

Distance

26 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Ipswich to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Ipswich to Colchester will cost around $10 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.

Fast buses

On Thu, Sep 10, we found 6 buses from Ipswich to Colchester, including 6 direct services.

On Thu, Sep 10 the direct buses cover the 26 km distance in an average of 38 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 35 m .

On Thu, Sep 10 the slowest buses will take 40 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.

  • National ExpressNX717
    6:05 PM0h35
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    6:40 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $101One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX717
    4:05 PM0h40
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    4:45 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $101One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX717
    11:15 AM0h40
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    11:55 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $101One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX717
    5:00 AM0h35
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    5:35 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $101One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX717
    8:00 AM0h40
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    8:40 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $101One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Ipswich to Colchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ipswich to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $11 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 48m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, while a train costs an average of $16.

Distance: 16 miles (26 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$11

Average price

Cheapest

$16

Average price

$7

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 8m

Average total duration

38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

48m

Average total duration

Fastest

18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

33m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Greater Anglia

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 Ipswich to Colchester is a bus with an average price of $11.

This is compared to other travel options from Ipswich to Colchester:

A bus is $5 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ipswich to Colchester costing on average $16.

The fastest way to travel from Ipswich to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 18m.

Other travel options to Colchester take longer:

Bus takes on average 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ipswich to Colchester 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 $11 compared to roughly $7 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-4.02. The journey takes 38m versus 33m 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.

Ipswich to Colchester Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00AM
Arrival Time
04:35AM
Duration
0h35
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$9
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:00AM
Arrival Time
05:35AM
Duration
0h35
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:10AM
Arrival Time
07:55AM
Duration
0h45
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$6
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
08:40AM
Duration
0h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:15AM
Arrival Time
11:55AM
Duration
0h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
01:10PM
Duration
0h40
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$9
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
02:10PM
Duration
0h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
0h40
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
$9
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:05PM
Arrival Time
04:45PM
Duration
0h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:05PM
Arrival Time
05:40PM
Duration
0h35
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
$9
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05PM
Arrival Time
06:40PM
Duration
0h35
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00PM
Arrival Time
09:35PM
Duration
0h35
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$17

Live departures

Ipswich to Colchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Ipswich to Colchester buses for tomorrow, Thursday, September 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX7175:00 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
0h35
5:35 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX7178:00 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
0h40
8:40 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX71711:15 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
0h40
11:55 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX7171:30 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
0h40
2:10 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX7174:05 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
0h40
4:45 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX7176:05 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
0h35
6:40 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Ipswich to Colchester by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16

Why should you book Ipswich to Colchester buses with Omio?

National Express as well as Ipswich Buses offer buses services from Ipswich to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich to Colchester.

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 Ipswich Buses to find the best option for your trip from Ipswich to Colchester.
  • 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ipswich to Colchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Ipswich to Colchester.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Ipswich to Colchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Ipswich to Colchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $8 if you book in advance.

There are 7 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:12, the last at 23:51. The fastest bus covers the 16 miles (26 km) distance in 35m.

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
Distance
16 miles (26 km)
Average bus duration
38m
Cheapest ticket price
$8
Buses per day
7
Direct buses
7
Fastest bus
35m
First bus
1:12 AM
Last bus
11:51 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
28 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

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Ipswich to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Ipswich to Colchester with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $8. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$8
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

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
35m
Cheapest National Express Price
$9
National Express frequency
6 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 Colchester

Things to do in Colchester

Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Colchester Castle Museum

Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.

  • Recommended

The Military Museum

Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.

  • Recommended

Colchester Natural History Museum

Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable 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
£2.50-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.

FAQs: Bus from Ipswich to Colchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Ipswich to Colchester can start from as little as $8 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Ipswich to Colchester is $11 ; 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 Ipswich to Colchester is 35m to travel the 16 miles (26 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 Ipswich to Colchester leaves at 1:12 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Ipswich to Colchester leaves at 11:51 PM.
Yes, there are 7 direct buses a day from Ipswich to Colchester with National Express, Ipswich Buses. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Ipswich to Colchester, you can count on National Express, Ipswich Buses for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Ipswich and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Ipswich , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) . When arriving in Colchester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Colchester, East Hill / High Street, Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Colchester, East Hill / High Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
A day trip to Colchester from Ipswich is worth doing with a journey time of 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Ipswich to Colchester is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Ipswich to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Ipswich to Colchester:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Ipswich to Colchester 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 Ipswich to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Ipswich to Colchester:
  • 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 Ipswich to Colchester:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Ipswich to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Ipswich to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Ipswich to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Ipswich to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Ipswich nor Colchester 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 Ipswich to Colchester 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 Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
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 Ipswich to Colchester

Most Ipswich to Colchester buses use the Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) to Colchester, East Hill / High Street station pair, with some services arriving at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station). Use this guide to compare Ipswich and Colchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Ipswich
Arrival bus stations in Colchester

Which Ipswich station do buses to Colchester leave from?

Buses from Ipswich to Colchester leave from Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Ipswich city centre at Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UK.
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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.

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