Standard
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bournemouth to Croydon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £7 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 47m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £7, while a train costs an average of £37.
Distance: 145 km
| Coach | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£7 Average Price Cheapest | £37 Average Price | £28 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 43m Average total duration 3h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 47m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Bournemouth to Croydon:
A coach is £30 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bournemouth to Croydon costing on average £37.
Other travel options to Croydon take longer:
Coach takes on average 3h 13m.
Tickets start at around £7 compared to roughly £28 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £21. The journey takes 3h 13m versus 2h 17m 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.
Compare train and coach 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.
Buses from Bournemouth to Croydon run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
There are 12 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 03:20, the last at 23:45. The fastest coach covers the 145 km distance in 3h 5m.
Distance 145 km |
Average bus duration 3h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Buses per day 13 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 3h 5m |
First bus 3:20 |
Last bus 23:45 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 4 days |
Compare National Express classes and the amenities included in each one.
Discover the best of Croydon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Croydon trip today.
Local history museum in a medieval house, covering Croydon’s people, suburbs and civic story through compact displays.
Independent gallery and artist studios hosting contemporary exhibitions, talks and events in a converted industrial building.
Volunteer-run heritage centre in South Norwood exploring Crystal Palace, local railways and the area’s social history.
Nature reserve and former medieval hunting ground with heathland, woodland and broad views, popular for longer walks.
Large town-centre green with formal gardens, a café, playground and events, ideal for a break between central sights.
Wide open common with ponds, paths and sports areas, valued by locals for walking, birdlife and relaxed suburban scenery.
A full English breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, mushrooms and toast. A staple across Greater London and a classic local start to the day.
Pie filled with steak and kidney in rich gravy, baked in pastry. A traditional British pub dish long associated with London and the South East.
Battered cod or haddock with chunky chips. This enduring London favourite is a go-to takeaway and pub meal across Croydon.
Stylish restaurant and bar known for steaks, grills and cocktails in central Croydon. Smart but relaxed for lunch or dinner.
Established pub and dining room serving British favourites, Sunday roasts and cask ales in a traditional setting near South Croydon.
Popular South London market with diverse street food traders, casual seating and a lively atmosphere. Good for sampling local and international bites.
Moderate for Greater London. Hotels, dining and rail fares are often cheaper than central London, but still higher than many UK cities.
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually small change.
Official public transport app
Croydon, Park Lane (Fairfield Halls) -> East Croydon Station, Croydon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth to Croydon by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Croydon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Bournemouth to Croydon buses use the Bournemouth, Coach Station to London, Victoria Green Line Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Croydon bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need