- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Victorian villa museum with local history, archaeology, and rotating exhibitions in one of Bournemouth’s most important heritage buildings.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Bournemouth
Showing times and prices for Jul 29
Cheapest price
$51
Average price
$51
Fastest journey
10 h 20 m
Average duration
11 h 22 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
343 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Bournemouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Bournemouth will cost around $51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Preston for Bournemouth on Wed, Jul 29, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 29 the direct buses cover the 343 km distance in an average of 11 h 22 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 20 m .
On Wed, Jul 29 the slowest buses will take 12 h 23 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.
2:20 AM10h20Preston12:40 PMBournemouth$511One-way0 transfers- 5:47 AM12h23Preston6:10 PMBournemouth$521One-way0 transfers
- 2:20 AM10h20Preston12:40 PMBournemouth$511One-way0 transfers
- 5:47 AM12h23Preston6:10 PMBournemouth$521One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Preston to Bournemouth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a train costs an average of $47.
Distance: 213 miles (343 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$55 Average price Cheapest | $104 Average price | $88 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 55m Average total duration 10h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 38m Average total duration Fastest 5h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Bournemouth is a bus with an average price of $55 (€55).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Bournemouth:
A bus is $48 (€48) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Bournemouth costing on average $104 (€104).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Bournemouth is by train with an average journey time of 5h 8m.
Other travel options to Bournemouth take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Bournemouth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Bournemouth among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Preston to Bournemouth Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $114 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 12h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:47AM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 12h23 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $56 |
Live departures
Preston to Bournemouth bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Bournemouth buses for today, Tuesday, July 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:35 PM Preston | 12h00 | 10:35 AM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, July 29 | |||||
| 2:20 AM Preston | 10h20 | 12:40 PM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:47 AM Preston | 12h23 | 6:10 PM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Bournemouth 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.
Wed
Jul 29
Jul 29
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Why should you book Preston to Bournemouth buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Preston to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Bournemouth.
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 Preston to Bournemouth.
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 Preston to Bournemouth.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Bournemouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Bournemouth run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€36) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 22:35. The fastest bus covers the 213 miles (343 km) distance in 10h 20m.
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 213 miles (343 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€36) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 10h 20m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Preston to BournemouthYou can travel by bus between Preston to Bournemouth with National Express for as low as $36 (€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 Duration
10h 20m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€36)
National Express frequency
1 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 Bournemouth
Things to do in Bournemouth
Discover the best of Bournemouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bournemouth trip today.
- Recommended
Red House Museum and Gardens
Volunteer-run local museum covering Christchurch history, archaeology, and community life in a characterful period setting.
- Recommended
Bournemouth Aviation Museum
Specialist aviation museum at Bournemouth Airport displaying historic aircraft, cockpits, and memorabilia for enthusiasts and families.
- Must visit
Bournemouth Beach
Long sandy beach and promenade area at the resort’s core, ideal for classic seaside walks, sunsets, and easy access to the pier.
- Must visit
Lower Gardens
Victorian gardens running through the town center, popular for strolling, seasonal events, and a green link from square to sea.
- Recommended
Alum Chine
Clifftop and chine with woodland paths descending to a quieter beach, loved for views and a more local atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Crab
Fresh crab landed on the Dorset coast, often served simply in salads or sandwiches. It is prized locally for its sweet flavour and seaside freshness.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Dorset Blue Vinny
A traditional Dorset blue cheese with a crumbly texture and strong savoury taste. It reflects the county’s long farmhouse cheesemaking heritage.
Fish And Chips
Classic fish and chips made with fresh south coast fish. It is a staple British seaside meal strongly associated with Bournemouth beach outings.
Chez Fred
Casual Bournemouth institution famous for hearty fish and chips close to the beach, ideal for a classic seaside meal.
The Crab At Bournemouth
Refined seafood-focused fine dining in a stylish setting near the coast, known for tasting menus and polished service.
WestBeach
Busy traditional seafood spot by the seafront, popular for fish and chips, shellfish, and relaxed coastal dining.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: hotels peak in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if not already added. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
morebus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Bournemouth Coach Station -> Bournemouth Square
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card and mobile payment are accepted on morebus buses, including tap on board for adult fares.
- The morebus app lets you buy tickets and check live departures before boarding.
FAQs: Bus from Preston to Bournemouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Preston to Bournemouth can start from as little as $36 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Bournemouth is $55 (€55) ; 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 Preston to Bournemouth is 10h 20m to travel the 213 miles (343 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 Preston to Bournemouth leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Bournemouth leaves at 10:35 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Preston to Bournemouth which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Preston to Bournemouth, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Bournemouth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Preston and Bournemouth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bournemouth from Preston is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 10h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Preston to Bournemouth is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Bournemouth including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Preston to Bournemouth for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston to Bournemouth:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bournemouth are:
- Bournemouth Beach, a popular sandy beach stretching for miles with a pier and various water activities
- Bournemouth Pier, a Victorian-era pier offering entertainment, dining, and panoramic views of the coastline
- Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, a historic house museum featuring a diverse collection of art and artifacts
- Bournemouth Gardens, a series of beautiful gardens perfect for leisurely walks and picnics
- St. Peter's Church, a historic church known for its stunning architecture and the resting place of Mary Shelley.
The best things to do in Bournemouth include:
- Oceanarium, an aquarium featuring marine life from various global habitats
- Lower Gardens, a well-maintained public park with floral displays and seasonal events
- Boscombe Chine Gardens, a picturesque garden with a mini-golf course and water play area
- Hengistbury Head, a nature reserve ideal for hiking and birdwatching
- Bournemouth Aviation Museum, an interactive museum dedicated to the history of aviation.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston to Bournemouth 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 Preston to Bournemouth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston to Bournemouth:
- 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 Preston to Bournemouth:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Preston to Bournemouth.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Preston to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Bournemouth with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Preston nor Bournemouth 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 Preston to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like beaches and nightlife spots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and stay vigilant in busy public places to 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 Preston to Bournemouth
Most Preston to Bournemouth buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Bournemouth, Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Bournemouth bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Preston
Arrival bus stations in Bournemouth
Preston, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Bus23 · 6m · $9 · every ~8 min
Bournemouth, Coach Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth, Coach Station from Bournemouth city centre
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · $2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · $2 · every ~74 min
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Bournemouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bournemouth and Preston
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