- Must visit
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Derby’s leading museum with art, archaeology, and natural history, best known for its important Joseph Wright collection.
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$18
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$20
Fastest journey on Sep 18
9 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
9 h 25 m
Buses on Sep 18
2
Distance
238 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portsmouth to Derby is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Derby will cost around $20 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 buses from Portsmouth to Derby, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct buses cover the 238 km distance in an average of 9 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 25 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest buses will take 9 h 25 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 Derby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $64 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 17m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $64, while a train costs an average of $176.
Distance: 147 miles (238 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$64 Average price Cheapest | $176 Average price | $66 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 11m Average total duration 6h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 3h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Derby:
A bus is $111 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Derby costing on average $176.
Other travel options to Derby take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 41m.
Tickets start at around $64 compared to roughly $66 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $2. The journey takes 6h 41m versus 3h 29m 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 02:05AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:14AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 8h11 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:34AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 7h56 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:19PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 8h26 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:34PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 8h31 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:09PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 7h11 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:29PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 7h56 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:39PM | Arrival Time 12:35AM | Duration 7h56 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 12:35AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 03:20AM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 03:20AM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 03:20AM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Derby buses for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 11:00 AM Portsmouth | 9h45 | 8:45 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
![]() | 2:05 AM Portsmouth | 9h25 | 11:30 AM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 3:05 AM Portsmouth | 9h25 | 12:30 PM Derby | 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 Derby run on average 16 times per day, taking around 6h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $38 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:10, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 147 miles (238 km) distance in 5h 50m.
Distance 147 miles (238 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 |
Buses per day 16 |
Fastest bus 5h 50m |
First bus 2:10 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 4 days |
Discover the best of Derby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Derby trip today.
Derby’s leading museum with art, archaeology, and natural history, best known for its important Joseph Wright collection.
Excellent museum of making in a restored silk mill, exploring Derby’s industrial innovation with interactive displays and river views.
Historic Georgian house with period rooms and changing displays, offering an intimate look at local life and Derby’s past residents.
Riverside public park with mature trees, gardens, and monuments, ideal for a gentle walk close to Derby’s museums and cathedral.
Compact historic quarter around the cathedral with cobbled lanes, galleries, and heritage buildings, full of local character.
Main city-centre square framed by historic buildings, markets, and events; a practical starting point for exploring central Derby.
A classic Derbyshire pudding of stewed apples topped with a pastry crust. It is a long-standing regional dessert found in local homes and pubs.
Bread or rolls filled with melted Derby Sage cheese and onion. This simple local snack highlights the county's famous herb-flavoured cheese.
A crumbly blue-veined cheese made in Derbyshire. It is one of England's best-known regional cheeses and a staple on local cheeseboards.
Refined modern British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting. One of Derby's best-known fine dining destinations.
Stylish restaurant and wine bar serving British and European dishes. Popular for polished cooking and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
Historic pub in a former railway building, known for cask ales and classic pub meals. A strong choice for Derby beer culture.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Derby Bus Station -> Derby Railway Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Derby 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 Derby, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Portsmouth to Derby buses use the Portsmouth, University to Derby, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Derby 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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need