- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Leicester to Colchester
Showing times and prices for Jul 27
Cheapest price
$59
Average price
$65
Fastest journey
4 h 50 m
Average duration
5 h 12 m
Buses per day
18
Distance
162 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Leicester to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Colchester will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $59.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Leicester to Colchester without transferring at least once.
NX777 · NX7177:25 AM5h00Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station12:25 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$591One-way1 transfer- NX450 · NXA8 · NX7176:30 PM7h15Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$611One-way2 transfers
- NX440 · NXA8 · NX7175:25 PM8h20Leicester, Braunstone1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$611One-way2 transfers
- NX450 · NXA8 · NX7176:30 PM7h15Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$611One-way2 transfers
- NX440 · NXA8 · NX7175:25 PM8h20Leicester, Braunstone1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$611One-way2 transfers
- NX777 · NX7175:10 AM4h50Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station10:00 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX777 · NX7177:25 AM5h00Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station12:25 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$591One-way1 transfer
- NX777 · NX7179:40 AM5h15Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$681One-way1 transfer
- NX777 · NX71711:30 AM5h25Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station4:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$711One-way1 transfer
- NX777 · NX7175:20 PM5h30Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station10:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$711One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Leicester to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, and a train costs an average of $46.
Distance: 100 miles (162 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$52 Average price Cheapest | $93 Average price | $35 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 36m Average total duration 4h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 51m Average total duration Fastest 2h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 49m 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Leicester to Colchester is a bus with an average price of $52 (€52).
This is compared to other travel options from Leicester to Colchester:
A bus is $41 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Colchester costing on average $93 (€93).
The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 21m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Colchester 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.
Leicester to Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 01:55PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $66 |
Live departures
Leicester to Colchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Colchester buses for today, Sunday, July 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 3:55 PM Leicester, Braunstone | 6h55 | 10:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX777 · NX717 | 5:00 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 5h50 | 10:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 5:55 PM Leicester, Braunstone | 7h50 | 1:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 5:55 PM Leicester, Braunstone | 7h50 | 1:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 7:00 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 6h45 | 1:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX777 · NX717 | 5:10 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 4h50 | 10:00 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 6:10 AM Leicester, Braunstone | 8h45 | 2:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 6:10 AM Leicester, Braunstone | 8h45 | 2:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX777 · NX717 | 7:25 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 5h00 | 12:25 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 8:55 AM Leicester, Braunstone | 8h00 | 4:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 8:55 AM Leicester, Braunstone | 8h00 | 4:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX777 · NX717 | 9:40 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 5h15 | 2:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX777 · NX717 | 11:30 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 5h25 | 4:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 11:55 AM Leicester, Braunstone | 7h55 | 7:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX440 · NXA8 · NX717 | 11:55 AM Leicester, Braunstone | 7h55 | 7:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX230 · NX737 · NX717 | 1:10 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 6h40 | 7:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester 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.
Mon
Jul 27
Jul 27
Tue
Jul 28
Jul 28
Wed
Jul 29
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Aug 02
Why should you book Leicester to Colchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Leicester to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- 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 Leicester 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 Leicester to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Leicester to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Leicester to Colchester run on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 6m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 (€34) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 100 miles (162 km) distance in 7h 10m.
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 100 miles (162 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€34) |
Buses per day 17 |
Fastest bus 7h 10m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 14 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 from Leicester to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Leicester to Colchester with National Express for as low as $34 (€34). 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
7h 10m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€34)
National Express frequency
7 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.
- 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.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
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.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Colchester East Hill / High Street, Colchester -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Colchester. You can also use the First Bus app for tickets and live times.
- Colchester town centre is walkable, so buses are most useful for longer trips such as Colchester Station or outlying areas.
FAQs: Bus from Leicester to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Leicester to Colchester can start from as little as $34 (€34) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Leicester to Colchester is $52 (€52) ; 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 Leicester to Colchester is 7h 10m to travel the 100 miles (162 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 Leicester to Colchester leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Leicester to Colchester leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 17 buses a day from Leicester to Colchester which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Leicester to Colchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Leicester and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Colchester from Leicester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Leicester to Colchester is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Leicester to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Leicester to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Leicester 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 Leicester to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Leicester 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 Leicester to Colchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Leicester to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Leicester to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Leicester to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Leicester to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Leicester 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester 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 Leicester to Colchester
Most Leicester to Colchester buses use the Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station to Colchester, East Hill / High Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Colchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Leicester
Arrival bus stations in Colchester
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station from Leicester city centre
BusHop · 0m · $2 · every ~14 min
26 · 1m · every ~10 min
21 · 4m
Leicester, Braunstone
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester, Braunstone from Leicester city centre
Bus153, 158 · 7m · $2 · every ~9 min
153, 158 · 11m · $2 · every ~9 min
Nd · 20m · every ~9 min
20 · 26m · $2 · every ~4 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · $3 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · $1 · every ~3 min
Most popular bus connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Leicester
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
