Southampton to Plymouth bus with National Express

Thu, May 07
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Plymouth

Showing times and prices for May 07

Cheapest price

$73

Average price

$78

Fastest journey

7 h 45 m

Average duration

8 h 5 m

Buses per day

2

Distance

202 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Plymouth will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.

Fast buses

Of the 2 buses that leave Southampton for Plymouth on Thu, May 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 07 the direct buses cover the 202 km distance in an average of 8 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 45 m .

On Thu, May 07 the slowest buses will take 8 h 25 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
    3:00 PM7h45
    Southampton
    10:45 PMPlymouth
    $731One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    4:30 PM8h25
    Southampton
    12:55 AMPlymouth
    $821One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Southampton to Plymouth

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Plymouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $68. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 33m. 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 $68, and a train costs an average of $54.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$87

Average price

Cheapest

$114

Average price

$56

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 44m

Average total duration

7h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 23m

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

Great 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 Plymouth is a bus with an average price of $87 (€70).

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

A bus is $27 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Plymouth costing on average $114 (€91).

The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Plymouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 33m.

Other travel options to Plymouth take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Plymouth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Plymouth 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.

Live departures

Southampton to Plymouth bus times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_express4:30 PM Southampton
8h25
12:55 AM Plymouth0 transfersDirect
Thursday, May 7
national_express3:00 PM Southampton
7h45
10:45 PM Plymouth0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Plymouth 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.

Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13

Why should you book Southampton to Plymouth buses with Omio?

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

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 Plymouth.

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 Plymouth.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Southampton to Plymouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Southampton to Plymouth run on average 11 times per day, taking around 7h 14m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $68 (€54) but you can travel from only $54 (€43) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 125 miles (202 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 $54 (€43)
Distance
125 miles (202 km)
Average bus duration
7h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
$68 (€54)
Buses per day
11
Fastest bus
7h 20m
First bus
12:30 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
14 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 $54 (€43)

Bus providers: National Express from Southampton to PlymouthYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Plymouth with National Express for as low as $54 (€43). 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
$68 (€54)
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 Plymouth

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Plymouth can start from as little as $68 (€54) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Plymouth is $87 (€70) ; 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 Plymouth is 7h 20m to travel the 125 miles (202 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 Plymouth leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Plymouth leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 11 buses a day from Southampton to Plymouth 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 Plymouth, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Plymouth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Southampton and Plymouth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Plymouth 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 Plymouth is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Plymouth including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Plymouth:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Plymouth for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton to Plymouth 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 Plymouth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Plymouth:
  • 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 Plymouth:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Plymouth.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Plymouth with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Plymouth with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Plymouth with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Southampton nor Plymouth 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 Plymouth 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 Plymouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as the Barbican and city center. Some may encounter overcharging or unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to use licensed taxis. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional scams involving street vendors or unsolicited offers for tours. Staying vigilant and using official transportation and booking channels helps 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 Plymouth

Southampton
Plymouth
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 Plymouth.
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
Southampton, University
information

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