- 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, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 25
Cheapest price on Oct 25
$50
Average ticket price on Oct 25
$50
Fastest journey on Oct 25
9 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 25
9 h 20 m
Buses on Oct 25
1
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 $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Fast buses
On Sun, Oct 25, we found 1 buses from Southampton to Colchester, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Oct 25 the direct buses cover the 194 km distance in an average of 9 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 20 m .
On Sun, Oct 25 the slowest buses will take 9 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.
7:30 PM9h20Southampton4:50 AMColchester$501One-way0 transfers
- 7:30 PM9h20Southampton4:50 AMColchester$501One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Colchester run on average 16 times per day, taking around 5h 18m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $52 (€44) but you can travel from only $47 (€40) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:05, the last at 21:35. The fastest bus covers the 120 miles (194 km) distance in 3h 50m.
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 $47 (€40)
Distance 120 miles (194 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $52 (€44) |
Buses per day 16 |
Fastest bus 3h 50m |
First bus 2:05 AM |
Last bus 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $47 (€40)
Frequently asked questions about your Southampton to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Southampton to Colchester.
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Colchester can start from as little as $52 (€44) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Colchester is $80 (€67) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
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 16 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.
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 $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
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 bus and train 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 bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Colchester.
Bus providers: National Express from Southampton to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Colchester with National Express for as low as $47 (€40). 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
3h 50m
Cheapest National Express Price
$52 (€44)
National Express frequency
16 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Southampton and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
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 {providersWithBike}.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Colchester
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Colchester.
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.
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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
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.
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 · $3 · 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, UniversityUniversity Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, University from Southampton city centre
Southampton, University is 3 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU2b, U2 · 11m · $3 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 25m · $3 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 29m · $3 · every ~37 min
Southampton, University bus station facilities and services
Southampton, University has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton, University. ATMs are available at Southampton, University.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, University.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, University: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, University: Basic accessibility features are available for passengers.
Which Colchester station do buses from Southampton arrive at?
Buses from Southampton to Colchester arrive at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. Colchester, East Hill / High Street is from Colchester city centre.
Colchester, East Hill / High StreetColchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · $4 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · $2 · every ~3 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street bus station facilities and services
Colchester, East Hill / High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. ATMs are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Limited accessibility features.
Bus stations for Southampton to Colchester
Check bus stations information for Southampton and Colchester, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Southampton , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Southampton, Coach Station, Southampton, University . When arriving in Colchester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Colchester, East Hill / High Street .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Southampton, Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Colchester, East Hill / High Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
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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