- Must visit
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
The university’s flagship museum presents natural history collections in a spectacular neo-Gothic hall, ideal for science and architecture lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Oxford
Showing times and prices for Aug 28
Cheapest price
$43
Average price
$64
Fastest journey
7 h
Average duration
9 h 9 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
245 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Oxford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Oxford will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Preston to Oxford without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus2:15 PM11h05Preston, Bus Station1:20 AMOxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station$431One-way1 transfer
NX181 · NX1603:20 AM7h00Preston, Bus Station10:20 AMOxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station$551One-way1 transfer- RL152 · NX540 · UCX510:05 AM9h00Preston, Bus Station7:05 PMOxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station$691One-way2 transfers
- RL152 · NX540 · NX7375:55 AM9h30Preston, Bus Station3:25 PMOxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station$871One-way2 transfers
- NX181 · NX1603:20 AM7h00Preston, Bus Station10:20 AMOxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station$551One-way1 transfer
- RL152 · NX540 · UCX510:05 AM9h00Preston, Bus Station7:05 PMOxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station$691One-way2 transfers
- RL152 · NX540 · NX7375:55 AM9h30Preston, Bus Station3:25 PMOxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station$871One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus2:15 PM11h05Preston, Bus Station1:20 AMOxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station$431One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston to Oxford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Oxford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $35. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $35, and a train costs an average of $41.
Distance: 152 miles (245 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$64 Average price Cheapest | $117 Average price | $82 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 30m Average total duration 6h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 3h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Oxford is a bus with an average price of $64 (€52).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Oxford:
A bus is $52 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Oxford costing on average $117 (€94).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Oxford is by train with an average journey time of 3h 20m.
Other travel options to Oxford take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Oxford including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Oxford 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 Oxford Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 04:45AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Live departures
Preston to Oxford bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Oxford buses for today, Thursday, August 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:15 PM Preston | 11h05 | 12:20 AM Oxford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, August 28 | |||||
| NX181 · NX160 | 3:20 AM Preston, Bus Station | 7h00 | 10:20 AM Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| RL152 · NX540 · NX737 | 5:55 AM Preston, Bus Station | 9h30 | 3:25 PM Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| RL152 · NX540 · UCX5 | 10:05 AM Preston, Bus Station | 9h00 | 7:05 PM Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Oxford by train or bus
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.
Fri
Aug 28
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Wed
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Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Why should you book Preston to Oxford buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus or FlixBus offer buses services from Preston to Oxford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Oxford.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Oxford.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Oxford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Oxford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Oxford.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Oxford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Oxford run on average 4 times per day, taking around 6h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $35 (€29) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 152 miles (245 km) distance in 4h 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 152 miles (245 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 (€29) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 45m |
First bus 12:50 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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, FlixBus from Preston to OxfordYou can travel by bus between Preston to Oxford with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $35 (€29). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 5m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€29)
National Express frequency
3 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 Oxford
Things to do in Oxford
Discover the best of Oxford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oxford trip today.
- Must visit
Pitt Rivers Museum
World-famous museum of archaeology and anthropology with remarkable collections from ancient Egypt to Pacific cultures.
- Must visit
Ashmolean Museum
Britain’s oldest public museum displays global art and archaeology, including classical sculpture, paintings, and Egyptian antiquities.
- Must visit
High Street
Oxford’s historic main street is lined with colleges, churches, and grand facades, making it essential for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Radcliffe Square
A central square framed by the Bodleian, Radcliffe Camera, and university buildings, offering one of Oxford’s defining views.
- Must visit
Christ Church Meadow
A peaceful riverside path popular for walking and punting views, giving a greener, more local side of Oxford.
Oxfordshire Sausage
A hearty Oxfordshire sausage made with pork and veal, often seasoned with lemon and herbs. It is a long-standing county specialty linked to local butchers.
Oxford Sandy and Black Pie
A rustic Oxfordshire pie of seasoned pork, bacon, apples and cider. It reflects the county's farming traditions and classic English pub cooking.
- Vegetarian
Banbury Cake
A rich fruit cake from nearby Banbury, filled with currants, raisins and spice. It is one of Oxfordshire's best-known historic baked treats.
Restaurant 56
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for seasonal British tasting menus and polished service in a refined city-centre setting.
The Perch
Historic riverside pub with a strong reputation for cask ales and classic British dishes in a traditional and atmospheric setting.
The Covered Market Tavern
Historic covered market institution serving Oxford sausages, breakfasts and traditional British comfort food in a casual setting.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Oxford is pricier than many UK cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Transit is manageable, but central accommodation and tourist-area meals raise daily budgets.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add 10-12.5% service; if not, tip about 10% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional, usually small change.
Oxford Bus Company
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city center
Gloucester Green Bus Station -> Oxford City Centre
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel buses.
- Gloucester Green is in the city centre, so many central sights are reachable on foot from the bus station.
FAQs: Bus from Preston to Oxford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Oxford 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 Oxford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Preston to Oxford can start from as little as $35 (€29) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Oxford is $64 (€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 Preston to Oxford is 4h 45m to travel the 152 miles (245 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 Oxford leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Oxford leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Preston to Oxford which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Preston to Oxford, you can count on National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Oxford. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Preston and Oxford and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Preston , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Preston, Bus Station, Lancaster, University . When arriving in Oxford , you can end your journey in bus stations like Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Preston, Bus Station, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Oxford from Preston is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Preston to Oxford is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Oxford including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston to Oxford:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Preston to Oxford for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Oxford are:
- Radcliffe Camera, an iconic circular library building and a symbol of Oxford University
- Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe with an extensive collection of books and manuscripts
- Christ Church College, a historic college known for its stunning architecture and connections to Harry Potter
- Ashmolean Museum, the University of Oxford's museum of art and archaeology with diverse collections
- Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK featuring a wide variety of plants and themed gardens.
The best things to do in Oxford include:
- Visit the University of Oxford, explore the historic colleges and libraries of one of the world's oldest universities
- Tour the Ashmolean Museum, discover an extensive collection of art and archaeology at Britain's first public museum
- Walk through the Oxford Botanic Garden, enjoy the diverse plant collections in the oldest botanic garden in the UK
- Explore the Covered Market, browse through a variety of local shops and eateries in this historic market
- Climb the Carfax Tower, get panoramic views of Oxford from the top of this central landmark.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston to Oxford depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- 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.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Oxford.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston to Oxford:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Preston to Oxford:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Preston to Oxford. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Preston to Oxford with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Oxford with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Oxford with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Preston nor Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed cabs or reputable ride-hailing apps. Be wary of unofficial street vendors offering overpriced or counterfeit tickets for attractions. Additionally, travelers should avoid unlicensed bike rentals and always secure personal belongings when exploring the city.
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 Oxford
Most Preston to Oxford buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Oxford 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 Oxford
Which Preston station do buses to Oxford leave from?
Buses from Preston to Oxford leave from Preston, Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre at Preston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK.
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.
Which Oxford station do buses from Preston arrive at?
Buses from Preston to Oxford arrive at Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station. Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station is from Oxford city centre.
Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus StationGloucester Green, Oxford OX1 2BU, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station from Oxford city centre
Bus400, N400 · 11m · $2 · every ~19 min
Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Nero (in the station), The Four Candles (0.2 km), The White Rabbit (0.3 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Oxford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Oxford and Preston
Most popular bus connections to Oxford
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