London to Colchester bus with National Express

Tue, May 26
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The cheapest and fastest buses from London to Colchester

Showing times and prices for May 26

Cheapest price

$55

Average price

$55

Fastest journey

3 h 15 m

Average duration

3 h 34 m

Buses per day

7

Distance

83 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from London to Colchester will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from London to Colchester without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
    10:30 PM3h15
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $551One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
    7:30 PM3h20
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    10:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $551One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
    11:00 AM3h55
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    2:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $551One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
    4:00 PM3h50
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    7:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $551One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
    6:30 AM3h30
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    10:00 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street
    $551One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for London to Colchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $17, and a bus costs an average of $30.

Distance: 51 miles (83 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$48

Average price

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$39

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 45m

Average total duration

2h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 48m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

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 London to Colchester is a train with an average price of $32 (€26).

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

A train is $16 (€13) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from London to Colchester costing on average $48 (€38).

The fastest way to travel from London to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 53m.

Other travel options to Colchester take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 15m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London 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.

London to Colchester Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:30AM
Arrival Time
10:00AM
Duration
3h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30AM
Arrival Time
11:25AM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
11:25AM
Duration
3h25
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$39
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:30AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
3h25
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:00AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
4h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:00PM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
07:50PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
09:50PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30PM
Arrival Time
10:50PM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00PM
Arrival Time
12:15AM
Duration
3h15
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
3h15
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:30PM
Arrival Time
01:45AM
Duration
3h15
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$53

Live departures

London to Colchester bus times

The table below shows live departures for London to Colchester buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
Delayed
1:30 PM 6:30 AMLondon, Victoria Coach Station
3h30
10:00 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street
1 transfer
National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
Delayed
1:30 PM 8:30 AMLondon, Victoria Coach Station
3h55
12:25 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street
1 transfer
National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
Delayed
1:30 PM 11:00 AMLondon, Victoria Coach Station
3h55
2:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street
1 transfer
National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
Delayed
1:30 PM 1:00 PMLondon, Victoria Coach Station
3h55
4:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street
1 transfer
National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
On time
4:00 PM London, Victoria Coach Station
3h50
7:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street
1 transfer
National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
On time
7:30 PM London, Victoria Coach Station
3h20
10:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street
1 transfer
National ExpressNXA8 · NX717
On time
10:30 PM London, Victoria Coach Station
3h15
1:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street
1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets London to Colchester 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.

Mon
May 25
Wed
May 27
Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Wed
Jun 10
Fri
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14

Why should you book London to Colchester buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from London to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London to Colchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Bus from London to Colchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from London to Colchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:02, the last at 23:57. The fastest bus covers the 51 miles (83 km) distance in 2h 20m.

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
Train from $17 (€14)
Distance
51 miles (83 km)
Average bus duration
2h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
$30 (€24)
Buses per day
8
Fastest bus
2h 20m
First bus
12:02 AM
Last bus
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
56 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
Train from $17 (€14)

Bus providers: National Express from London to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between London to Colchester with National Express for as low as $17 (€14). 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
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
National Express frequency
8 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.

FAQs: Bus from London to Colchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London 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 London to Colchester can start from as little as $30 (€24) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for London to Colchester is $48 (€38) ; 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 London to Colchester is 2h 20m to travel the 51 miles (83 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 London to Colchester leaves at 12:02 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from London to Colchester leaves at 11:57 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from London 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 London 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 London and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Colchester from London is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from London to Colchester is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from London to Colchester:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from London to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from London 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 London to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from London 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 London to Colchester:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from London to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from London to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from London to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from London to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither London 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 London 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 London to Colchester

London
Colchester
The major bus station for departures in London is London, Victoria Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at London, Victoria Coach Station for your trip from London to Colchester.
London, Victoria Coach StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 06:00-23:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
carConnection
Car connection
Buckingham Palace Road
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Pret a Manger (in the station)
  • Starbucks (in the station).
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the station on Buckingham Palace Road.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available in the station.
Public transit options for London, Victoria Coach Station
  • Bus: 11, 44, 170, 211, C1, C10 Metro: Victoria Train: Southern, Gatwick Express
London, Bishopsgate (Liverpool Street Station - Stop G)WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 06:00-23:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
carConnection
Car connection
Bishopsgate
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Pret a Manger (in the station)
  • Starbucks (in the station).
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the station on Bishopsgate.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available in the station.
Public transit options for London, Bishopsgate (Liverpool Street Station - Stop G)
  • Bus: 11, 23, 26, 76, 133, 388 Metro: Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan Train: Greater Anglia, TfL Rail
London, Heathrow Airport Terminals 2 & 3WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 00:00-23:59
carConnection
Car connection
Bath Road
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Pret a Manger (in the station)
  • Caffè Nero (in the station)
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the arrivals area, with services provided by licensed black cabs and private hire vehicles.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, assistance
WC
WC
  • Available in the station.
Public transit options for London, Heathrow Airport Terminals 2 & 3
  • Bus: 105, 111, 140, 285, 423 Train: Heathrow Express Metro: Piccadilly

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