- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Colchester
Showing times and prices for Jul 27
Cheapest price
$61
Average price
$61
Fastest journey
7 h 55 m
Average duration
8 h 8 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
194 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Southampton to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Colchester will cost around $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Southampton for Colchester on Mon, Jul 27, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 27 the direct buses cover the 194 km distance in an average of 8 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 55 m .
On Mon, Jul 27 the slowest buses will take 8 h 20 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.
10:45 AM8h20Southampton7:05 PMColchester$611One-way0 transfers- 1:05 AM7h55Southampton9:00 AMColchester$611One-way0 transfers
- 1:05 AM7h55Southampton9:00 AMColchester$611One-way0 transfers
- 10:45 AM8h20Southampton7:05 PMColchester$611One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Southampton to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $41. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 34m. 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 $41, and a train costs an average of $59.
Distance: 120 miles (194 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$55 Average price Cheapest | $93 Average price | $41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 45m Average total duration 5h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Colchester is a bus with an average price of $55 (€55).
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Colchester:
A bus is $39 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Colchester costing on average $93 (€93).
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 34m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Colchester 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.
Southampton to Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:05AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Live departures
Southampton to Colchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Colchester buses for today, Sunday, July 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:30 PM Southampton | 9h20 | 4:50 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, July 27 | |||||
| 1:05 AM Southampton | 7h55 | 9:00 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:45 AM Southampton | 8h20 | 7:05 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Colchester 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.
Mon
Jul 27
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Why should you book Southampton to Colchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Southampton to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Colchester.
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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Colchester run on average 17 times per day, taking around 5h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $41 (€41) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:05, the last at 21:35. The fastest bus covers the 120 miles (194 km) distance in 7h 55m.
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 120 miles (194 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 (€41) |
Buses per day 17 |
Fastest bus 7h 55m |
First bus 2:05 AM |
Last bus 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 Southampton to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Colchester with National Express for as low as $41 (€41). 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
7h 55m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€41)
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 Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Military Museum
Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.
- Recommended
Colchester Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Colchester East Hill / High Street, Colchester -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Colchester. You can also use the First Bus app for tickets and live times.
- Colchester town centre is walkable, so buses are most useful for longer trips such as Colchester Station or outlying areas.
FAQs: Bus from Southampton to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Colchester can start from as little as $41 (€41) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Colchester 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 Southampton to Colchester is 7h 55m to travel the 120 miles (194 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 Colchester leaves at 2:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Colchester leaves at 9:35 PM.
There are 17 buses a day from Southampton to Colchester 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 Colchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Southampton and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Colchester from Southampton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Southampton to Colchester is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton to Colchester 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 Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Colchester:
- 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 Colchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Southampton nor Colchester 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 Southampton to Colchester 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 Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
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 Southampton to Colchester
Most Southampton to Colchester buses use the Southampton, Coach Station to Colchester, East Hill / High Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Colchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Southampton
Arrival bus stations in Colchester
Which Southampton station do buses to Colchester leave from?
Buses from Southampton to Colchester leave from Southampton, Coach Station. The station is from Southampton city centre at Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom.
Southampton, Coach StationHarbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, Coach Station from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · $2 · every ~20 min
Southampton, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Southampton, Coach 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 Express (in the station), Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
Southampton, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, University from Southampton city centre
BusU2b, U2 · 11m · $2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 25m · $2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 29m · $2 · every ~37 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · $3 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · $1 · every ~3 min
Most popular bus connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Southampton
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
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