- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Portsmouth to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$105
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$105
Fastest journey on Sep 20
9 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
9 h 30 m
Buses on Sep 20
1
Distance
348 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portsmouth to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Preston will cost around $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $105.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Portsmouth to Preston without transferring at least 2 times.
4:55 PM9h30Portsmouth2:25 AMPreston$1051One-way2 transfers
- 4:55 PM9h30Portsmouth2:25 AMPreston$1051One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Portsmouth to Preston
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $52 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 0m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, while a flight costs an average of $189.
Distance: 216 miles (348 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$52 Average price Cheapest | $167 Average price | $189 Average price | $93 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 48m Average total duration 9h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration 4h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration Fastest 1h 0m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Portsmouth to Preston is a bus with an average price of $52.
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Preston:
A bus is $115 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Preston costing on average $167.
A bus is $137 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Portsmouth to Preston costing on average $189.
The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Preston is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 0m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 41m.
Bus takes on average 9h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Preston including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $52 compared to roughly $93 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $41. The journey takes 9h 18m versus 5h 1m 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.
Portsmouth to Preston Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:49AM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 12h01 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:54PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 10h31 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:09PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 11h16 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:54PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 10h31 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $66 |
Live departures
Portsmouth to Preston bus times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Preston buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:55 PM Portsmouth | 9h30 | 2:25 AM Preston | 2 transfers | |
| 8:10 PM Portsmouth | 11h00 | 7:10 AM Preston | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Preston by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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 Portsmouth to Preston buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Portsmouth to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Preston.
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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Portsmouth to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 9h 18m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 22:35. The fastest bus covers the 216 miles (348 km) distance in 7h 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 216 miles (348 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 7h 45m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Bus providers: National Express from Portsmouth to PrestonYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Preston with National Express for as low as $36. 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 National Express Duration
7h 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
$36
National Express frequency
7 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.
- 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.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
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.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Preston Bus Station -> Preston Railway Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 14 min
- Most local buses in Preston accept contactless card payment; buy before boarding only if your operator requires it.
- Preston Bus Station is the main hub for city services; check your operator in advance because fares and tickets vary by company.
FAQs: Bus from Portsmouth to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Portsmouth to Preston can start from as little as $36 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Portsmouth to Preston is $52 ; 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 Portsmouth to Preston is 7h 45m to travel the 216 miles (348 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 Portsmouth to Preston leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Portsmouth to Preston leaves at 10:35 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Portsmouth to Preston which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Portsmouth to Preston, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Preston. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Preston and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Portsmouth , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, University . When arriving in Preston , you can end your journey in bus stations like Preston, Bus Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Preston, Bus Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Preston from Portsmouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Portsmouth to Preston is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Preston including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Portsmouth to Preston:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Portsmouth to Preston for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Portsmouth 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.
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 Portsmouth to Preston.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Portsmouth to Preston:
- 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 Portsmouth to Preston:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Portsmouth to Preston.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Portsmouth to Preston with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Portsmouth to Preston with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Portsmouth to Preston with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Portsmouth nor Preston 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Preston 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 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 Portsmouth to Preston
Most Portsmouth to Preston buses use the Portsmouth, University to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Preston bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Portsmouth
Arrival bus stations in Preston
Which Portsmouth station do buses to Preston leave from?
Buses from Portsmouth to Preston leave from Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Portsmouth city centre at The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UK.
Portsmouth, The Hard InterchangeThe Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · $2 · every ~214 min
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange bus station facilities and services
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at The Hard (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Portsmouth, University
Which Preston station do buses from Portsmouth arrive at?
Buses from Portsmouth to Preston arrive at Preston, Bus Station. Preston, Bus Station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · $11 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Preston and Portsmouth
Most popular bus connections to Preston
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