- Must visit
Leicester Museum & Art Gallery
Leicester's flagship museum and gallery, known for dinosaurs, German Expressionism and broad collections for first-time visitors.
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$23
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$39
Fastest journey on Sep 20
5 h 26 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 54 m
Buses on Sep 20
5
Distance
205 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portsmouth to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Leicester will cost around $39 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 5 buses from Portsmouth to Leicester, including 5 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct buses cover the 205 km distance in an average of 5 h 54 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 26 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest buses will take 7 h 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 Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $38 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, while a train costs an average of $137.
Distance: 127 miles (205 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$38 Average price Cheapest | $137 Average price | $57 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 5m Average total duration 5h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Leicester:
A bus is $99 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Leicester costing on average $137.
Other travel options to Leicester take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 35m.
Tickets start at around $38 compared to roughly $57 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $19. The journey takes 5h 35m versus 3h 9m 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.
Direct services are operated by Megabus.
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 09:00AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:05AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:49AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 6h31 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:34AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 6h46 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:19PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 6h11 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:39PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 7h21 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:34PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 6h56 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:54PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 6h46 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:09PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 6h01 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:29PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 6h56 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:29PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 7h01 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:39PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 6h51 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:29PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 5h26 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:29PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 6h36 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Leicester buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NX030 · NX440 | 10:34 AM Portsmouth, University | 6h46 | 5:20 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 10:50 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h30 | 5:20 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 12:19 PM Portsmouth, University | 6h11 | 6:30 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 12:35 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 5h55 | 6:30 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 1:34 PM Portsmouth, University | 6h56 | 8:30 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 1:50 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h40 | 8:30 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 3:09 PM Portsmouth, University | 6h01 | 9:10 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 3:25 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 5h45 | 9:10 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 3:35 PM Portsmouth, International Port | 5h35 | 9:10 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 4:39 PM Portsmouth, University | 6h51 | 11:30 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 4:55 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h35 | 11:30 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 6:29 PM Portsmouth, University | 6h46 | 1:15 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 6:45 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h30 | 1:15 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 7:55 PM Portsmouth, University | 7h00 | 2:55 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 8:10 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h45 | 2:55 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX030 · NX440 | 8:15 PM Portsmouth, International Port | 6h40 | 2:55 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
![]() | 3:05 AM Portsmouth | 5h55 | 9:00 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 3:20 AM Portsmouth | 5h40 | 9:00 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Portsmouth to Leicester run on average 21 times per day, taking around 5h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $15 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 21:04. The fastest bus covers the 127 miles (205 km) distance in 4h 30m.
Distance 127 miles (205 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $15 |
Buses per day 21 |
Fastest bus 4h 30m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 9:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Leicester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leicester trip today.
Leicester's flagship museum and gallery, known for dinosaurs, German Expressionism and broad collections for first-time visitors.
Dedicated to the 2012 discovery of Richard III, this award-winning museum uses immersive displays to tell a remarkable royal story.
A grand Victorian pumping station with working steam heritage displays, making industrial history surprisingly engaging for all ages.
Revived historic quarter around Leicester Cathedral and the Richard III story, packed with lanes, heritage sites and independent venues.
Leicester's best-known green space, offering formal gardens, boating, sports facilities and a lively urban park atmosphere.
Main civic square framed by key institutions and events, useful as a central meeting point and starting place for exploring.
A flaky pastry pie from nearby Melton Mowbray, traditionally made with uncured pork. It is one of Leicestershire’s best-known foods and widely eaten in Leicester.
A hard, crumbly red cheese from Leicestershire with a nutty, mellow flavour. It is one of England’s oldest named cheeses and a proud regional staple.
A blue-veined Stilton-style cheese made in Leicestershire. Rich and creamy, it is strongly linked to the county’s cheesemaking tradition.
Modern British fine dining with tasting menus in an intimate setting. One of Leicester’s most acclaimed restaurants for special occasions.
Well-known modern Indian restaurant serving refined regional dishes and grills in a smart, contemporary dining room.
Long-established vegetarian Indian restaurant on the Golden Mile, known for Gujarati snacks, thalis and a lively casual atmosphere.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for most visitors.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is not expected, but small change is appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Leicester 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 Leicester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Portsmouth to Leicester buses use the Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange to Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda). Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Leicester 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