Southampton to Ipswich bus with National Express

Wed, May 06
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Ipswich

Showing times and prices for May 06

Cheapest price

$73

Average price

$73

Fastest journey

7 h 20 m

Average duration

7 h 20 m

Buses per day

1

Distance

219 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Ipswich will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.

Fast buses

Of the 1 buses that leave Southampton for Ipswich on Wed, May 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, May 06 the direct buses cover the 219 km distance in an average of 7 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 20 m .

On Wed, May 06 the slowest buses will take 7 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.

  • National Express
    6:30 PM7h20
    Southampton
    1:50 AMIpswich
    $731One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Southampton to Ipswich

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. 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 bus costs an average of $49, and a train costs an average of $46.

Distance: 136 miles (219 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

$68

Average price

Cheapest

$86

Average price

6h 39m

Average total duration

6h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

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.

Live departures

Southampton to Ipswich bus times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Ipswich buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, May 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_express6:30 PM Southampton
7h20
1:50 AM Ipswich0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Ipswich 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
May 06
Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12

Why should you book Southampton to Ipswich buses with Omio?

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

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 Ipswich.

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 Ipswich.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Southampton to Ipswich

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Southampton to Ipswich run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 9m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $49 (€39) but you can travel from only $46 (€37) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 02:05, the last at 21:00. The fastest bus covers the 136 miles (219 km) distance in 7h 20m.

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 $46 (€37)
Distance
136 miles (219 km)
Average bus duration
6h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
$49 (€39)
Buses per day
8
Fastest bus
7h 20m
First bus
2:05 AM
Last bus
9:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $46 (€37)

Bus providers: National Express from Southampton to IpswichYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Ipswich with National Express for as low as $46 (€37). 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 20m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€39)
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 Ipswich

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Ipswich can start from as little as $49 (€39) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Ipswich is $68 (€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 Ipswich is 7h 20m to travel the 136 miles (219 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 Ipswich leaves at 2:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Ipswich leaves at 9:00 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Southampton to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Ipswich. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Southampton and Ipswich and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Ipswich from Southampton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Southampton to Ipswich is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Ipswich including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Ipswich:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Ipswich for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Ipswich are:
  • Ipswich Waterfront, a vibrant area with marinas, restaurants, and historic buildings along the River Orwell
  • Christchurch Mansion, a Tudor mansion housing an art gallery and museum with works by Gainsborough and Constable
  • Ipswich Museum, featuring exhibits on local history, natural history, and archaeology
  • Holywells Park, a scenic park with ponds, woodlands, and a children's play area
  • Suffolk Food Hall, a destination for local produce, dining, and views of the Orwell Bridge.
The best things to do in Ipswich include:
  • New Wolsey Theatre, a contemporary venue hosting a variety of performances including plays, musicals, and comedy shows
  • Orwell Country Park, offering beautiful walking trails and views of the River Orwell
  • Ipswich Transport Museum, showcasing a collection of transport and engineering heritage
  • DanceEast, a hub for dance performances and workshops
  • Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park, a family-friendly attraction with animals, gardens, and a farm shop.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton to Ipswich 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 Ipswich.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Ipswich:
  • 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 Ipswich:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Ipswich.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Southampton nor Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the town center and markets. Scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation. Travelers should also remain aware of their surroundings at night, as isolated areas may have increased petty crime.
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 Ipswich

Southampton
Ipswich
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 Ipswich.
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

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