- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Interactive museum inside a medieval church telling the story of Canterbury’s Roman, medieval, and modern past. Ideal first stop for context.
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$26
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$35
Fastest journey on Sep 05
5 h 21 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
5 h 43 m
Buses on Sep 05
2
Distance
161 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portsmouth to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Canterbury will cost around $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 2 buses from Portsmouth to Canterbury, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct buses cover the 161 km distance in an average of 5 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 21 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest buses will take 6 h 5 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.




Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $39 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 53m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, while a train costs an average of $44.
Distance: 100 miles (161 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$39 Average price Cheapest | $44 Average price | $48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 26m Average total duration 4h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 53m Average total duration Fastest 3h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Canterbury:
A bus is $5 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Canterbury costing on average $44.
Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 56m.
Tickets start at around $39 compared to roughly $48 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $8. The journey takes 4h 56m versus 2h 16m 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.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:50AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:34AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 6h31 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:49AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 5h41 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:39PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 6h41 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:39PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 6h26 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:09PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 7h16 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:39PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 6h26 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:09PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 7h16 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:54PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 7h01 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:29PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 5h21 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Canterbury buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 5:50 AM Portsmouth | 6h05 | 11:55 AM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:29 PM Portsmouth | 5h21 | 11:50 PM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Portsmouth to Canterbury run on average 20 times per day, taking around 4h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $26 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 21:08. The fastest bus covers the 100 miles (161 km) distance in 6h 10m.
Distance 100 miles (161 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 |
Buses per day 20 |
Fastest bus 6h 10m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 9:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 56 days |
Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.
Interactive museum inside a medieval church telling the story of Canterbury’s Roman, medieval, and modern past. Ideal first stop for context.
Underground remains of a Roman townhouse with mosaics and hypocaust. A compact but memorable look at Roman Canterbury beneath the streets.
Story-led museum on medieval pilgrimage inspired by Chaucer. It brings Canterbury’s most famous journeying tradition to life.
Pedestrian high street lined with historic buildings and shops. It is one of the best places to feel the rhythm of central Canterbury.
Picturesque lane famed for overhanging medieval timber-framed buildings. One of Canterbury’s most photographed and atmospheric historic streets.
Elegant pedestrian street connecting major sights. Its historic façades, independent shops, and easy walking route make it especially pleasant.
Kentish Huffkin is a traditional Kent bread roll, often served with cheese or fruit. It is a classic county bake linked to local farmhouse cooking.
Canterbury Tart is a historic pastry tart, usually filled with apple and almond. It is associated with old Kent baking traditions and local tea tables.
Whitstable Oysters are served across Canterbury and East Kent. These native oysters are prized for their briny flavor and long link to the nearby coast.
Well-regarded modern British restaurant with seasonal menus and a smart yet relaxed setting in the city center.
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for polished British tasting menus and refined service in central Canterbury.
Popular farmers' market restaurant serving seasonal Kent produce, meats, cheeses, and simple dishes in a lively casual setting.
Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist-season stays and central restaurants raise prices. Local buses are reasonable.
Service may be included at restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis: round up or add 5-10%. Cafes: optional small change.
Official public transport app
Canterbury Bus Station -> Canterbury Cathedral
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Portsmouth to Canterbury buses use the Portsmouth, University to Canterbury, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury, University Of Kent. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Canterbury bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café at The Hard (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange.
Available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Portsmouth, International Port is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Portsmouth, International Port has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café in the terminal (in the station), Fast-food outlet (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance of the terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, International Port.
Available at Portsmouth, International Port: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, International Port: Elevators, ramps.
Canterbury, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafes and eateries within a short walk.
Wi-Fi is available at Canterbury, Bus Station. ATMs are aTM located outside the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury, Bus Station.
Available at Canterbury, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury, Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible with assistance.
Canterbury, University Of Kent is 1 km from Canterbury city centre. Public transport options include:
Canterbury, University Of Kent has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, and WC.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located on campus, near the student union.
Available at Canterbury, University Of Kent: Parking, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury, University Of Kent: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need