- Must visit
Southend Central Museum
Southend's main local history museum, covering archaeology, natural history, and social heritage in a central Victorian building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Luton to Southend-on-Sea
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$0.00
Average price
$-0.01
Fastest journey
4 h 7 m
Average duration
4 h 52 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
87 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Luton to Southend-on-Sea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Luton to Southend-on-Sea without transferring at least 2 times.
2:35 AM5h02Luton7:37 AMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers- 5:50 AM5h35Luton11:25 AMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers
- 8:00 AM4h25Luton12:25 PMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers
- 10:05 AM4h07Luton2:12 PMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers
- 1:35 PM5h51Luton7:26 PMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices3 transfers
- 10:05 AM4h07Luton2:12 PMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers
- 8:00 AM4h25Luton12:25 PMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers
- 2:35 AM5h02Luton7:37 AMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers
- 3:40 PM5h11Luton8:51 PMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers
- 5:50 AM5h35Luton11:25 AMSouthend-on-SeaFind prices2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Luton to Southend-on-Sea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Luton to Southend-on-Sea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $28.
Distance: 54 miles (87 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$46 Average price Cheapest | $24 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 17m Average total duration Fastest 1h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Luton to Southend-on-Sea is a train with an average price of $46.
The fastest way to travel from Luton to Southend-on-Sea is by train with an average journey time of 1h 47m.
Other travel options to Southend-on-Sea take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Southend-on-Sea including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Southend-on-Sea among Omio's users.
Luton to Southend-on-Sea Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 07:37AM | Duration 5h02 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:50AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 12:23PM | Duration 4h08 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 02:12PM | Duration 4h07 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 02:29PM | Duration 4h04 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 07:26PM | Duration 5h51 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 08:51PM | Duration 5h11 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 10:47PM | Duration 4h12 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Live departures
Luton to Southend-on-Sea bus times
The table below shows live departures for Luton to Southend-on-Sea buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:35 AM Luton | 5h02 | 7:37 AM Southend-on-Sea | 2 transfers | |
| 5:50 AM Luton | 5h35 | 11:25 AM Southend-on-Sea | 2 transfers | |
| 8:00 AM Luton | 4h25 | 12:25 PM Southend-on-Sea | 2 transfers | |
| 10:05 AM Luton | 4h07 | 2:12 PM Southend-on-Sea | 2 transfers | |
| 1:35 PM Luton | 5h51 | 7:26 PM Southend-on-Sea | 3 transfers | |
| 3:40 PM Luton | 5h11 | 8:51 PM Southend-on-Sea | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Luton to Southend-on-Sea 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.
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Why should you book Luton to Southend-on-Sea buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Luton to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Southend-on-Sea.
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 Luton to Southend-on-Sea.
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 Luton to Southend-on-Sea.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea and enjoy the approximately 54 miles (87 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 04:31, the last at 20:16. The fastest bus covers the 54 miles (87 km) distance in 4h 0m.
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 $28
Distance 54 miles (87 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 57m |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 4h 0m |
First bus 4:31 AM |
Last bus 8:16 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $28
Bus providers: National Express from Luton to Southend-on-SeaYou can travel by bus between Luton to Southend-on-Sea with National Express for as low as $28. 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
4h 0m
National Express frequency
5 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 Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Must visit
Prittlewell Priory Museum
Historic priory museum with period rooms, monastic remains, and gardens, offering one of the area's richest heritage experiences.
- Recommended
Southend Pier Museum
Specialist museum exploring Southend's famous pier, seaside holidays, and coastal life through engaging local displays.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Long sandy beach and promenade area popular for walks, sea views, amusements, and classic Southend seaside atmosphere.
- Must visit
Old Leigh
Historic fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, and estuary views, full of local character and maritime heritage.
- Recommended
Chalkwell Park
Large clifftop park with gardens, sports space, and open views over the Thames estuary, ideal for relaxed coastal walks.
- Gluten-free
Cockles
Fresh cockles harvested from the Thames estuary, long linked with Southend's seafront stalls and seafood trade. Usually served with vinegar and pepper.
- Gluten-free
Whelks
Whelks are sea snails traditionally sold at Essex fish stalls. In Southend they are a classic seaside snack, eaten cold with salt, vinegar, and pepper.
- Gluten-free
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are a historic Thames estuary dish. Chopped eels are cooked in spiced stock that sets into jelly, a traditional East End and Essex specialty.
Roslin Beach Hotel Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with modern British cooking and polished service. Well regarded for tasting menus and a refined special-occasion atmosphere.
West's Seafood Restaurant
Classic seafront fish and chip restaurant known for fresh seafood, generous portions, and a traditional Southend seaside atmosphere.
The Fishermen's Wharf
Long-established seafood restaurant focusing on local fish and shellfish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront with strong local reputation.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Hotels can rise in summer, but casual dining and local transit are usually cheaper than London. Attractions and seafront snacks can add up.
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
- £3-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Chichester Road, Southend-on-Sea -> Southend Central, Southend-on-Sea
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on local Arriva buses, so you can tap a bank card or mobile wallet when boarding.
- Check operator zones and ticket types before travel, as Southend services may be run by different bus companies with separate fares.
FAQs: Bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The average journey time by bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea is 4h 0m to travel the 54 miles (87 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 Luton to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 4:31 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 8:16 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Luton to Southend-on-Sea which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Southend-on-Sea. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Luton and Southend-on-Sea and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Southend-on-Sea from Luton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Southend-on-Sea including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Luton to Southend-on-Sea 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 Luton to Southend-on-Sea.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Luton to Southend-on-Sea:
- 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 Luton to Southend-on-Sea:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Luton to Southend-on-Sea with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Luton nor Southend-on-Sea 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 Luton to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the seafront and amusement parks. Common scams include overcharging in taxis that are not licensed and distraction techniques used by street vendors or performers. Staying alert in busy tourist spots and using official transportation services 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.
Most popular bus connections from Luton
More options for your journey from Luton to Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Southend-on-Sea and Luton
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