London to Preston bus with National Express

Fri, Oct 16
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The cheapest and fastest buses from London to Preston

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 16

Cheapest price on Oct 16

$35

Average ticket price on Oct 16

$59

Fastest journey on Oct 16

6 h

Average journey duration on Oct 16

7 h 7 m

Buses on Oct 16

7

Distance

306 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from London to Preston will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.

Fast buses

On Fri, Oct 16, we found 7 buses from London to Preston, including 3 direct services.

On Fri, Oct 16 the direct buses cover the 306 km distance in an average of 7 h 7 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h .

On Fri, Oct 16 the slowest buses will take 8 h 50 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 ExpressNX540 · NX181
    8:00 PM6h25
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    2:25 AMPreston, Bus Station
    $351One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    10:30 AM6h40
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    5:10 PMPreston, Bus Station
    $421One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    11:10 AM6h00
    London, Finchley Road ("Subway" restaurant)
    5:10 PMPreston, Bus Station
    $421One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX424
    11:30 PM7h40
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    7:10 AMPreston, Bus Station
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX541 · NX540 · RL152
    12:15 PM9h35
    London, Victoria Coach Station
    9:50 PMPreston, Bus Station
    $661One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from London to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from London to Preston run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 if you book in advance.

There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 190 miles (306 km) distance in 4h 45m.

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
190 miles (306 km)
Average bus duration
6h 48m
Cheapest ticket price
$20
Buses per day
5
Direct buses
3
Fastest bus
4h 45m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
21 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

London to Preston Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:30AM
Arrival Time
05:10PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:10AM
Arrival Time
05:10PM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
09:50PM
Duration
9h35
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$66
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
10:50PM
Duration
9h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:35PM
Arrival Time
02:25AM
Duration
10h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
02:25AM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$89
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:20PM
Arrival Time
02:25AM
Duration
8h05
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:00PM
Arrival Time
02:25AM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:20PM
Arrival Time
07:10AM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$72
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:30PM
Arrival Time
07:10AM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$54

Live departures

London to Preston bus times

The table below shows live departures for London to Preston buses for today, Thursday, October 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX42411:30 PM London, Victoria Coach Station
7h40
7:10 AM Preston, Bus Station0 transfersDirect
Friday, October 16
FlixBusFlixBus10:30 AM London, Victoria Coach Station
6h40
5:10 PM Preston, Bus Station0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus11:10 AM London, Finchley Road ("Subway" restaurant)
6h00
5:10 PM Preston, Bus Station0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX541 · NX540 · RL15212:15 PM London, Victoria Coach Station
9h35
9:50 PM Preston, Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX032 · NX410 · NX1815:30 PM London, Hammersmith Bridge Road
8h55
2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX1818:00 PM London, Victoria Coach Station
6h25
2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book London to Preston buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from London to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Preston.

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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from London to Preston.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London to Preston.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from London to Preston.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from London to Preston.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from London to PrestonYou can travel by bus between London to Preston with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $20. 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
6h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$20
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 National Express Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
$24
National Express frequency
4 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 Preston

Things to do in Preston

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

  • Must visit

The Harris

Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.

  • Recommended

Museum of Lancashire

Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.

  • Recommended

Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library

Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.

Buses from London to Preston

Taking buses from London to Preston is a relaxed way of making this journey, especially when keeping to a budget is important. Routes operate to the same schedule seven days a week with four direct departures and four connecting routes every day. Direct buses take from just over six hours to eight hours while connecting services need between six and a half and seven and a half hours. Departures are from London Victoria bus Station and journeys terminate at Preston Tithebarn Street bus Station.

Which bus companies travel from London to Preston?

All bus routes to Preston from London are operated by the part-British, part-multinational owned National Express. From its headquarters in Birmingham, this large company provides bus routes across the UK and Europe. National Express uses a modern fleet of buses with comfortable seating and standard onboard services of baggage storage, WiFi, toilets and air conditioning or heating. Some buses also have individual power sockets.

How long is the bus from London to Preston?

Direct buses from London to Preston take from six hours 15 minutes to approximately eight hours to complete the journey while connecting routes take between six and a half and seven and a half hours. Where a connection is required, it is made at either Birmingham or Manchester.

How many buses are there from London to Preston?

There are four daily direct buses to Preston from London and a further four connecting routes with the same schedule operating throughout the week. Departures start in the early morning and continue until late at night.

What are the departure and arrival stations for buses from London to Preston?

Departure bus station: Buses from London to Preston leave from London Victoria bus Station. This is within an easy walk of London Victoria Train Station and together they form part of a transport network of local, regional and intercity trains as well as local and long-distance buses. bus station facilities include car parking, cab ranks, ATMs, tourist information, WiFi and a selection of shops and cafes.

Arrival bus station: Buses to Preston from London complete their journey at Preston Tithebarn Street bus Station. Located to the east of the city center, Preston's bus station was the largest in Europe when it opened in 1969. It is a listed example of Brutalist Architecture and has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment. Its facilities include parking, cafes, WiFi and waiting areas.

FAQs: Bus from London to Preston

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from London to Preston can start from as little as $20 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for London to Preston is $51 ; 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 Preston is 4h 45m to travel the 190 miles (306 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 Preston leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from London to Preston leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from London to Preston with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from London to Preston, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Preston. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between London and Preston and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from London , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including London, Victoria Coach Station, London, Finchley Road ("Subway" restaurant), London, Baker Street Station, London, Heathrow Airport Terminals 2 & 3, London, Hammersmith Bridge Road, London, Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, London, Heathrow Airport Terminal 4, London, York Road (London Eye), London, Bishopsgate (Liverpool Street Station - Stop G), London, Eastbourne Terrace (Paddington Station), London, Golders Green Station, London, Shoreditch High St / Bethnal Green Road (Stop L), London, Kingsland Road / Middleton Road, London, Wembley Stadium (First Way), London, Southwark Street / Blackfriars Road . When arriving in Preston , you can end your journey in bus stations like Preston, Bus Station, Lancaster, University, Blackpool, Central Coach Station, Blackburn, Penny Street .Passengers board the bus most frequently from London, Victoria Coach Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Preston, Bus Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between London and Preston including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from London to Preston:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from London to Preston for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from London to Preston 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.
  • 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 London to Preston.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from London to Preston:
  • 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 London to Preston:
  • 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 London to Preston. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from London to Preston with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from London to Preston with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from London to Preston with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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 Preston

Most London to Preston buses use the London, Victoria Coach Station to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare London and Preston bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in London
Arrival bus stations in Preston

Which London station do buses to Preston leave from?

Buses from London to Preston leave from London, Victoria Coach Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from London city centre at 164 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9TP, United Kingdom.
London, Victoria Coach Station164 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9TP, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to London, Victoria Coach Station from London city centre

London, Victoria Coach Station is 2 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

BusN11, N44 · 9m · $14 · every ~4 min
148 · 17m · $3 · every ~30 min
24 · 25m · $3 · every ~25 min
38, N38 · 30m · $3 · every ~46 min
A8 · 30m · $2 · every ~10 min
390 · 35m · $3 · every ~26 min

London, Victoria Coach Station bus station facilities and services

London, Victoria Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Pret a Manger (in the station), Starbucks (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and inside the station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at London, Victoria Coach Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at London, Victoria Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at London, Victoria Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.

London, Finchley Road ("Subway" restaurant)
City-centre transport

Getting to London, Finchley Road ("Subway" restaurant) from London city centre

BusN113 · 22m · $3 · every ~2 min
A1, A31, A2, A6 · 25m · $2 · every ~6 min
757 · 28m · $5 · every ~9 min
A31, A1, A2, A6 · 30m · $2 · every ~6 min
Uk023, Ukx010, Ukn21, Ukn10, Uk003, Uk014, Uk008, Ukn11, Uk010, Uk020, Uk004, Uk021, Uk001, Ukn23, Ukxn10, Ukn30, Uk030, Uk005, Uk002, Ukn31 · 40m · $2 · every ~9 min
13 · 41m · $5 · every ~28 min
SubwayJubilee · 12m · $8 · every ~68 min
Jubilee · 12m · $6 · every ~68 min
London, Baker Street StationLondon Baker Street Station, London NW1 5AL, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to London, Baker Street Station from London city centre

London, Baker Street Station is 2 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

TRUE

London, Baker Street Station bus station facilities and services

London, Baker Street Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at London, Baker Street Station. ATMs are available at London, Baker Street Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at London, Baker Street Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at London, Baker Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at London, Baker Street Station: Ramps available for wheelchair access.

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