- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Town-centre museum with local history, archaeology and changing exhibitions in a Victorian villa beside Bournemouth's gardens.
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Gillingham to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, and a train costs an average of £52.
Distance: 185 km
Most popular Coach | Train |
|---|---|
£28 Average Price Cheapest | £52 Average Price |
5h 15m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 0m Average total duration Fastest 3h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
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 Gillingham to Bournemouth run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £28 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 04:26, the last at 19:40. The fastest coach covers the 185 km distance in 6h 35m.
Distance 185 km |
Average bus duration 4h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price £28 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 6h 35m |
First bus 4:26 |
Last bus 19:40 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Discover the best of Bournemouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bournemouth trip today.
Town-centre museum with local history, archaeology and changing exhibitions in a Victorian villa beside Bournemouth's gardens.
Small local museum on Hengistbury Head covering archaeology, wildlife and the headland's long human history in a scenic coastal setting.
Free gallery inside Bournemouth Library showing contemporary art exhibitions, talks and touring displays in a central location.
Historic pier and broad sandy beach at the town's heart, ideal for classic seaside walks, swimming and views along the bay.
Landscaped Victorian gardens running through the centre, popular for gentle walks, seasonal events and a green route to the seafront.
Headland nature reserve with walking trails, harbour views, heathland and archaeology, popular for longer coastal walks and birdwatching.
Fresh crab landed on the Dorset coast, prized for sweet meat and often served simply dressed to showcase local seafood traditions.
Hand-dived scallops from nearby Lyme Bay, a South Coast speciality valued for freshness and the region’s strong shellfish heritage.
Traditional Dorset Blue Vinny cheese with a firm, crumbly texture and robust flavour, long associated with Dorset farming and cheesemaking.
Refined dining room in a historic hotel, serving modern British cooking in an elegant setting overlooking the gardens.
Established seafood spot on West Cliff, popular for fish dishes, sea views and a smart but approachable atmosphere.
Traditional pub near the town centre serving local ales and classic British meals in a historic, characterful setting.
Moderate for a UK seaside resort. Hotels rise in summer, but dining and local buses are usually cheaper than in London or Bath.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafés.
Official public transport app
Bournemouth Coach Station -> Bournemouth Square, Bournemouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gillingham to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Gillingham to Bournemouth buses use the Gillingham, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre to Bournemouth, Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Gillingham and Bournemouth bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Gillingham, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre is 5 km from Gillingham city centre. Public transport options include:
Gillingham, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple restaurants in the shopping centre.
Wi-Fi is available at Gillingham, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre. ATMs are several ATMs inside the shopping centre.
Ticket office support is available at Gillingham, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre.
Available at Gillingham, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Gillingham, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre: The area is wheelchair accessible.
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