Southampton to Colchester bus with National Express

Thu, Jun 11
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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 $51. 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 $51, and a train costs an average of $73.

Distance: 120 miles (194 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$67

Average price

Cheapest

$115

Average price

$50

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

National Express

Most popular bus company

South Western Railway

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 $67 (€55).

This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Colchester:

A bus is $48 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Colchester costing on average $115 (€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

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:05AM
Arrival Time
09:00AM
Duration
7h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$75
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
07:05PM
Duration
8h20
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$75
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30PM
Arrival Time
04:50AM
Duration
9h20
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$51

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.

Thu
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17

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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Southampton to Colchester run on average 17 times per day, taking around 5h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $51 (€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
$51 (€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 $51 (€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
$51 (€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.
Learn more about National Express

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Colchester can start from as little as $51 (€41) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Colchester is $67 (€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

Southampton
Colchester
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 Colchester.
Southampton, Coach StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
address
Address
Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom
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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