- Must visit
SeaCity Museum
Modern city museum focused on Southampton’s maritime history, including the Titanic story and the city’s role as a major port.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Leicester to Southampton
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$19
Average price
$19
Fastest journey
12 h
Average duration
12 h
Buses per day
1
Distance
194 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Leicester to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Southampton will cost around $19 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Leicester for Southampton on Sun, May 31, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct buses cover the 194 km distance in an average of 12 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 12 h .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest buses will take 12 h 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.
9:30 PM12h00Leicester9:30 AMSouthampton$191One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 PM12h00Leicester9:30 AMSouthampton$191One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Leicester to Southampton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $45.
Distance: 120 miles (194 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$27 Average price Cheapest | $148 Average price | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 34m Average total duration 5h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 46m Average total duration Fastest 3h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Leicester to Southampton is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Leicester to Southampton:
A bus is $121 (€97) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Southampton costing on average $148 (€119).
The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 3h 16m.
Other travel options to Southampton take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Southampton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Southampton 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 $27 (€22) compared to roughly $52 (€42) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $25 (€20). The journey takes 5h 4m versus 3h 1m 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.
Direct services are operated by Megabus.
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.
Leicester to Southampton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:55AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:05AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 11:10PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 12:05AM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Live departures
Leicester to Southampton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Southampton buses for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:45 PM Leicester | 6h20 | 12:05 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:00 PM Leicester | 6h30 | 1:30 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:15 PM Leicester | 6h45 | 3:00 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Southampton 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.
Sun
May 31
May 31
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Jun 01
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Jun 02
Wed
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Jun 03
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Jun 06
Why should you book Leicester to Southampton buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus or FlixBus offer buses services from Leicester to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Southampton.
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 Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Southampton.
- 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 Leicester to Southampton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Southampton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Southampton.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Leicester to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Leicester to Southampton run on average 31 times per day, taking around 5h 4m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:05, the last at 22:15. The fastest bus covers the 120 miles (194 km) distance in 5h 55m.
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 120 miles (194 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Buses per day 31 |
Fastest bus 5h 55m |
First bus 2:05 AM |
Last bus 10:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, Megabus, FlixBus from Leicester to SouthamptonYou can travel by bus between Leicester to Southampton with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for as low as $16 (€13). 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 Duration
5h 55m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
FlixBus frequency
2 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 Duration
6h 20m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 30m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€26)
Megabus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
Complete guide to Southampton
Things to do in Southampton
Discover the best of Southampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southampton trip today.
- Must visit
Tudor House and Garden
Historic house museum revealing over 800 years of local history, with restored rooms, exhibitions, and a peaceful garden.
- Recommended
Solent Sky Museum
Aviation museum with historic aircraft, including the famous Supermarine Spitfire, which was developed in Southampton.
- Must visit
Old Town
Historic quarter with medieval walls, hidden lanes, and key heritage sites, ideal for exploring Southampton’s oldest streets.
- Recommended
Oxford Street
Lively street near the waterfront known for its atmosphere, historic surroundings, and strong appeal for evening strolls.
- Recommended
Ocean Village
Modern marina district with waterside walks, yachts, and photogenic views that have become especially popular on social media.
Southampton Fish And Chips
Fresh battered fish with chips, a classic south coast meal shaped by Southampton's maritime heritage and easy access to local seafood.
- Gluten-free
Isle Of Wight Crab
Sweet local crab from nearby waters, often served simply in salads or sandwiches and prized across Hampshire for its fresh flavour.
- Gluten-free
Oysters
Shellfish from the Solent and nearby coast, traditionally eaten fresh and closely linked to the region's long seafaring food culture.
Max's Brasserie
A long-established independent favourite serving British and European dishes in a smart, dependable brasserie setting.
The Pig In The Wall
A stylish, established venue in Southampton's old walls area, known for seasonal British food and a polished yet relaxed atmosphere.
Blue Jasmine
A well-known modern restaurant for refined Southeast Asian cooking and cocktails, with an elegant setting by Ocean Village.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual dining are fairly priced, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or fast food.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not already included. Round up for taxis. Tipping is optional in cafes and pubs.
Bluestar Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.50
To the city center
Southampton Coach Station -> Southampton Central Station
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 17 min
- Tap on with contactless card is accepted on many local buses, and the adult single fare cap is GBP 2.00 on participating services.
- Use the operator app to buy mobile tickets and check live departures before boarding.
FAQs: Bus from Leicester to Southampton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Leicester to Southampton can start from as little as $16 (€13) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Leicester to Southampton is $27 (€22) ; 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 Southampton is 5h 55m to travel the 120 miles (194 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 Southampton leaves at 2:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Leicester to Southampton leaves at 10:15 PM.
There are 31 buses a day from Leicester to Southampton which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Leicester to Southampton, you can count on National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Southampton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Leicester and Southampton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Southampton from Leicester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Leicester to Southampton is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Southampton including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Leicester to Southampton:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Leicester to Southampton for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Southampton are:
- Tudor House and Garden, a historic museum offering insights into Southampton's past with exhibits and a restored garden
- SeaCity Museum, an interactive museum focusing on Southampton's maritime history and the Titanic
- Southampton City Art Gallery, featuring an extensive collection of art from the Renaissance to contemporary works
- Solent Sky Museum, showcasing aviation history with a focus on the region's contributions to aircraft development
- Mayflower Theatre, a prominent venue hosting a variety of performances including musicals, opera, and ballet.
The best things to do in Southampton include:
- New Forest National Park, a nearby natural reserve ideal for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting
- Hythe Ferry, offering a scenic boat trip across Southampton Water to the charming village of Hythe
- Westquay Shopping Centre, a major retail destination with a wide range of shops and dining options
- Ocean Village Marina, a vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and leisure activities
- Southampton Common, a large public park perfect for picnics, walks, and outdoor events.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Leicester to Southampton depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- 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.
- FlixBus
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Southampton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Leicester to Southampton:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Leicester to Southampton:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Leicester to Southampton. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Leicester to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Leicester to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Leicester to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Leicester nor Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and near the port. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour operators offering poor services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official ticket vendors for transportation. Staying vigilant in crowded places and securing personal belongings can help 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 Leicester to Southampton
Leicester
Southampton
The major bus station for departures in Leicester is Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station for your trip from Leicester to Southampton.
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
information
Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
information
Leicester, Braunstone
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Southampton is Southampton, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Southampton, Coach Station for your trip to Southampton from Leicester.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Car connection
Harbour ParadeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café Express (in the station)
- Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the station.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available near the entrance.
Public transit options for Southampton, Coach Station
- Bus: U1, U2, U6, X4 Train: South Western Railway
Southampton, University
information
Southampton, Burgess Rd (Library)
information
Most popular bus connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Southampton and Leicester
Most popular bus connections to Southampton
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