- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
Small local museum covering Folkestone’s history, archaeology, and changing seaside life. A useful first stop for understanding the town.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Folkestone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 21
Cheapest price on Sep 21
$68
Average ticket price on Sep 21
$68
Fastest journey on Sep 21
6 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 21
6 h 58 m
Buses on Sep 21
5
Distance
182 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Southampton to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Folkestone will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Southampton to Folkestone without transferring at least once.
5:05 AM7h25Southampton12:30 PMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer- 9:15 AM6h20Southampton3:35 PMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
- 1:15 PM6h45Southampton8:00 PMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
- 3:20 PM7h40Southampton11:00 PMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
- 7:00 PM6h40Southampton1:40 AMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
- 9:15 AM6h20Southampton3:35 PMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
- 7:00 PM6h40Southampton1:40 AMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
- 1:15 PM6h45Southampton8:00 PMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
- 5:05 AM7h25Southampton12:30 PMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
- 3:20 PM7h40Southampton11:00 PMFolkestone$681One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Southampton to Folkestone
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Folkestone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $53 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 44m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, while a train costs an average of $87.
Distance: 113 miles (182 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$53 Average price Cheapest | $87 Average price | $50 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 13m Average total duration 5h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 44m Average total duration Fastest 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 34m 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 Folkestone is a bus with an average price of $53 (€43).
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Folkestone:
A bus is $34 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Folkestone costing on average $87 (€71).
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Folkestone is by train with an average journey time of 3h 14m.
Other travel options to Folkestone take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Folkestone including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Folkestone among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $53 (€43) compared to roughly $50 (€41) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-2.51 (€-2.05). The journey takes 5h 43m versus 2h 34m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Southampton to Folkestone Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Live departures
Southampton to Folkestone bus times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Folkestone buses for today, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:15 AM Southampton | 6h20 | 3:35 PM Folkestone | 1 transfer | |
| 1:15 PM Southampton | 6h25 | 7:40 PM Folkestone | 1 transfer | |
| 3:45 PM Southampton | 7h15 | 11:00 PM Folkestone | 1 transfer | |
| 7:00 PM Southampton | 6h40 | 1:40 AM Folkestone | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, September 21 | |||||
| 5:05 AM Southampton | 7h25 | 12:30 PM Folkestone | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Folkestone 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.
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Sep 21
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Why should you book Southampton to Folkestone buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Southampton to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Folkestone.
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 Folkestone.
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 Folkestone.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Folkestone run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 43m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $41 (€34) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 04:50, the last at 19:15. The fastest bus covers the 113 miles (182 km) distance in 5h 15m.
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 113 miles (182 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 (€34) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 5h 15m |
First bus 4:50 AM |
Last bus 7:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 4 days |
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 FolkestoneYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Folkestone with National Express for as low as $41 (€34). 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
5h 15m
Cheapest National Express Price
$41 (€34)
National Express frequency
6 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 Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Artworks Visitor Centre
Changing contemporary art exhibitions in a leading regional gallery. Known for ambitious programming and strong links to the town’s creative revival.
- Recommended
Kent Battle of Britain Museum
Volunteer-run military museum in nearby Capel-le-Ferne with artefacts from wartime Kent. Compact but informative for local defence history.
- Must visit
Lower Leas Coastal Park
Clifftop park and promenade with gardens, family spaces, and wide sea views. One of the town’s best walking areas from coast to harbour.
- Must visit
Harbour Arm
Revived harbour promenade with public art, events, and dramatic views over the Channel. A signature place in modern Folkestone.
- Recommended
The Old High Street
Historic hillside lane in the Creative Quarter, lined with independent shops, art spaces, and old buildings. Ideal for a characterful stroll.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed on the Kent coast, usually grilled or pan-fried. A classic local seafood choice tied to Folkestone’s fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Briny oysters from the nearby Kent coast, often served raw with lemon. They reflect the area’s long shellfish tradition and seaside identity.
Fish And Chips
Lightly battered local fish with chips, a staple of English seaside towns. In Folkestone it is prized for very fresh catch and harbour setting.
The Lobster Shack
Popular casual seafood spot on Folkestone Harbour Arm serving fresh fish, oysters and shellfish with a lively seaside atmosphere.
Marleys
Established harbour restaurant specialising in mussels, fish and Belgian-style dishes. Relaxed, dependable and well known among locals.
Rocksalt
Refined restaurant in The Harbour Arm area known for seasonal small plates and polished cooking in a stylish modern setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Hotels and dining are often cheaper than London, but peak-season stays and seafront meals can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 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
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Round up taxi fares. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Middelburg Square -> Folkestone Central Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Stagecoach buses serve most local routes in Folkestone. Contactless card payment is generally accepted on board.
- Use the Stagecoach Bus app for tickets and live bus times. Check route details before travel, especially on Sundays.
FAQs: Bus from Southampton to Folkestone
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Folkestone can start from as little as $41 (€34) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Folkestone is $53 (€43) ; 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 Folkestone is 5h 15m to travel the 113 miles (182 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 Folkestone leaves at 4:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Folkestone leaves at 7:15 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Southampton to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Folkestone. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Southampton and Folkestone and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Southampton , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Southampton, Coach Station, Southampton, University . When arriving in Folkestone , you can end your journey in bus stations like Folkestone, Middelburg Square .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 Folkestone, Middelburg Square, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Folkestone from Southampton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Southampton to Folkestone is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Folkestone including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Folkestone:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Folkestone for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton to Folkestone 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 Folkestone.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Folkestone:
- 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 Folkestone:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Folkestone.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Folkestone with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Folkestone with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Folkestone with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Southampton nor Folkestone 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 Southampton to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near the port. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and only use licensed operators to avoid overcharging scams. Additionally, watch out for distractions used by scammers in crowded spots. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Folkestone
Most Southampton to Folkestone buses use the Southampton, Coach Station to Folkestone, Middelburg Square station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Folkestone 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 Folkestone
Which Southampton station do buses to Folkestone leave from?
Buses from Southampton to Folkestone 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, 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 · $2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 25m · $2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 29m · $2 · 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 Folkestone station do buses from Southampton arrive at?
Buses from Southampton to Folkestone arrive at Folkestone, Middelburg Square. Folkestone, Middelburg Square is 0 miles (1 km) from Folkestone city centre.
Folkestone, Middelburg SquareFolkestone, Middelburg Square, Folkestone CT20 1AU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone, Middelburg Square from Folkestone city centre
Bus17, 91A, 71, 71A, 16, 91, 972, 975, 103, 73, 74 · 4m · $4 · every ~36 min
Folkestone, Middelburg Square bus station facilities and services
Folkestone, Middelburg Square 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 Folkestone, Middelburg Square. ATMs are available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square: Accessible via ramps and lowered curbs.
Most popular bus connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Folkestone and Southampton
Most popular bus connections to Folkestone
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