Southampton to Cambridge bus with National Express

Wed, Feb 04
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Cambridge

Showing times and prices for Feb 04

Cheapest price

$57

Average price

$65

Fastest journey

6 h 15 m

Average duration

6 h 58 m

Buses per day

2

Distance

178 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Southampton to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Southampton to Cambridge will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.

Fast buses

Of the 2 buses that leave Southampton for Cambridge on Wed, Feb 04, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Feb 04 the direct buses cover the 178 km distance in an average of 6 h 58 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 15 m .

On Wed, Feb 04 the slowest buses will take 7 h 40 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.

National Express
01:05AM7h40
Southampton
08:45AMCambridge
$571One-way
0 transfers
National Express
02:30AM6h15
Southampton
08:45AMCambridge
$731One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Southampton to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 58m. 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 train costs an average of €22, and a bus costs an average of €42.

Distance: 110 miles (178 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

€55

Average price

€53

Average price

Cheapest

5h 1m

Average total duration

4h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Southampton to Cambridge Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:05AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:15AM
Arrival Time
09:55AM
Duration
5h40
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:05AM
Arrival Time
09:55AM
Duration
4h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35AM
Arrival Time
11:35AM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:25AM
Arrival Time
11:35AM
Duration
5h10
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
01:25PM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$81
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30AM
Arrival Time
01:25PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$79
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:15AM
Arrival Time
03:25PM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$73
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:05AM
Arrival Time
03:25PM
Duration
5h20
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$81
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$43
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:30PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
5h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:20PM
Arrival Time
09:40PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
09:40PM
Duration
5h10
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:30PM
Arrival Time
11:35PM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$73
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
11:35PM
Duration
4h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:30PM
Arrival Time
01:45AM
Duration
5h15
Departure days
Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$68

Live departures

Southampton to Cambridge bus times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cambridge buses for today, Tuesday, February 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 7:02 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressNX032 · NX728
Delayed
12:50 PM 4:15 AMSouthampton, Coach Station
5h40
9:55 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
national_expressNX032 · NX728
Delayed
12:50 PM 5:35 AMSouthampton, Coach Station
6h00
11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
national_expressNX032 · NX727
Delayed
12:50 PM 7:00 AMSouthampton, Coach Station
6h25
1:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
national_expressNX032 · NX727
Delayed
12:50 PM 10:05 AMSouthampton, Coach Station
5h20
3:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
national_expressNX032 · NX727
On time
1:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station
6h30
8:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
national_expressNX032 · NX727
On time
4:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station
5h10
9:40 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
national_expressNX032 · NX727
On time
6:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station
5h05
11:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
national_expressNX032 · NX727
On time
8:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station
5h15
1:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
Wednesday, February 4
national_express1:05 AM Southampton
7h40
8:45 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
national_express2:30 AM Southampton
6h15
8:45 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Cambridge 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
Feb 04
Thu
Feb 05
Fri
Feb 06
Sat
Feb 07
Sun
Feb 08
Mon
Feb 09
Tue
Feb 10

Why should you book Southampton to Cambridge buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Southampton to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Cambridge.

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 to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Cambridge.
  • 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 Southampton to Cambridge.

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 Southampton to Cambridge.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Southampton to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Southampton to Cambridge run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $53 (€42) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 22:00. The fastest bus covers the 110 miles (178 km) distance in 5h 10m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $27 (€22)
Distance
110 miles (178 km)
Average bus duration
4h 31m
Cheapest ticket price
$53 (€42)
Buses per day
10
Fastest bus
5h 10m
First bus
00:35
Last bus
22:00
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $27 (€22)

Bus providers: National Express from Southampton to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Cambridge with National Express for as low as $27 (€22). 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
4h 35m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€35)
National Express frequency
9 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.

FAQs: Bus from Southampton to Cambridge

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Cambridge can start from as little as $53 (€42) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Cambridge is $69 (€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 Southampton to Cambridge is 5h 10m to travel the 110 miles (178 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 Southampton to Cambridge leaves at 12:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Cambridge leaves at 10:00 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Southampton to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Southampton to Cambridge, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Southampton and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cambridge from Southampton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Southampton to Cambridge is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Cambridge:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cambridge are:
  • King's College Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture known for its impressive fan vault and beautiful stained glass windows
  • The Fitzwilliam Museum, a renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the world
  • The Backs, a picturesque area along the River Cam offering scenic views of the colleges and lush gardens
  • Trinity College, one of the largest and wealthiest colleges in Cambridge, famous for its historic Great Court and library
  • Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden showcasing a diverse range of plant species and offering a tranquil escape from the city.
The best things to do in Cambridge include:
  • Punting on the River Cam, a traditional Cambridge activity offering scenic views of the colleges and bridges
  • Visit the Cambridge Science Centre, an interactive museum perfect for families and science enthusiasts
  • Explore the historic Market Square, where you can find local produce, crafts, and street food
  • Attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, featuring a variety of shows from drama to comedy
  • Take a guided walking tour to discover the rich history and hidden gems of Cambridge.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton to Cambridge 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 Southampton to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Cambridge:
  • 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 Southampton to Cambridge:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Cambridge.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Southampton to Cambridge

Southampton
Cambridge
The major bus station for departures in Southampton is Southampton, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Southampton, Coach Station for your trip from Southampton to Cambridge.
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 06:00-22:00
carConnection
Car connection
Harbour Parade
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Café Express (in the station)
  • Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the station.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available near the entrance.
Public transit options for Southampton, Coach Station
  • Bus: U1, U2, U6, X4 Train: South Western Railway
Southampton, University
information

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