- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Main city museum inside the castle, covering Roman Colchester, local archaeology and later history in a dramatic historic setting.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Portsmouth to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 25 Oct
Cheapest price on 25 Oct
£51
Average ticket price on 25 Oct
£51
Fastest journey on 25 Oct
7 h 6 m
Average journey duration on 25 Oct
7 h 6 m
Buses on 25 Oct
1
Distance
184 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester will cost around £51 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £51.
Fast coaches
On Sun 25 Oct, we found 1 buses from Portsmouth to Colchester, including 1 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 184 km distance in an average of 7 h 6 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 6 m .
The slowest buses will take 7 h 6 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.
8:497h06Portsmouth15:55Colchester£511One-way0 changes
- 8:497h06Portsmouth15:55Colchester£511One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Colchester run on average 21 times per day, taking around 5h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £39 but you can travel from only £33 by train.
The earliest coach runs at 02:35, the last at 20:20. The fastest coach covers the 184 km distance in 4h 0m.
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 £33
Distance 184 km |
Average bus duration 5h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £39 |
Buses per day 21 |
Fastest bus 4h 0m |
First bus 2:35 |
Last bus 20:20 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 £33
Frequently asked questions about your Portsmouth to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Portsmouth to Colchester.
Cheap coach tickets from Portsmouth to Colchester can start from as little as £39 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Portsmouth to Colchester is £60; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Portsmouth to Colchester leaves at 2:35. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Portsmouth to Colchester leaves at 20:20.
There are 21 coaches a day from Portsmouth to Colchester which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
Live departures
Portsmouth to Colchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Colchester coaches for tomorrow, Sunday 25 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:49 Portsmouth | 7h06 | 15:55 Colchester | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Portsmouth to Colchester coaches with Omio?
National Express operates all coaches services from Portsmouth to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Colchester.
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.
Bus providers: National Express from Portsmouth to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Colchester with National Express for as low as £33. 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
4h 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
£39
National Express frequency
21 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Portsmouth and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a coach from Portsmouth to Colchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Portsmouth to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Portsmouth to Colchester for coach company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester depends on the coach 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 coach with coach company {providersWithBike}.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Portsmouth to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester:
- 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 coach ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Portsmouth to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Portsmouth to Colchester with the following coach company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Portsmouth to Colchester with the following coach company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Portsmouth to Colchester with the following coach company: National Express.
Complete guide to Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with displays on Essex wildlife, geology and environment, suited to families and curious visitors.
- Recommended
Hollytrees Museum
Museum charting the city’s social history, from everyday objects to changing local life, housed in a restored historic building.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Central park beside the castle with lawns, mature trees and Roman remains. Ideal for a stroll, picnic or pause between sights.
- Recommended
High Street
Historic main street lined with shops and civic buildings, useful for exploring the town centre and taking in everyday city life.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Characterful district of timber-framed houses and narrow streets, known for its historic atmosphere and photogenic townscape.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Oysters
Native Colchester oysters, served raw or dressed. They have been harvested locally since Roman times and are the town’s best-known traditional food.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Eel
Smoked eel from the Essex coast and estuaries, traditionally cured and smoked for a rich flavour tied to local fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Essex Clanger
A traditional Essex bake made with potatoes, onions and pork or beef, slowly cooked until soft. It is a longstanding county comfort food.
Le Talbooth
Fine dining restaurant in Dedham Vale near Colchester, known for polished British cooking and a refined countryside setting.
Church Street Tavern
Established restaurant serving modern British dishes and seafood in a smart yet relaxed setting near the town centre.
Timbers
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and seasonal plates, with a friendly atmosphere and strong local reputation.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining cost less than London, but more than smaller UK towns. Buses are reasonable; central sightseeing is mostly low cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip about 10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city centre
Colchester, East Hill / High Street -> Colchester Town Railway Station
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless Tap & Cap works on Colchester Shuttles and other First Bus services in Colchester. Official First Bus information states you will not pay more than £4.50 in a day.
- Use the First Bus app for live tracking, journey planning and mobile tickets. It also supports card, Apple Pay and Google Pay for ticket purchases.
Best day trips from Colchester by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Colchester are London, Ipswich, Chelmsford and Clacton-on-Sea. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Colchester on Omio.
Day trip from Colchester to London by bus
Why visit London for the day?
London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.
How to get from Colchester to London by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:02, the last at 23:57. The fastest coach covers the 83 km distance in 2h 0m.
Day trip from Colchester to Ipswich by bus
Why visit Ipswich for the day?
Ipswich is one of England’s oldest towns, known for its waterfront and maritime past. Its medieval streets, parks and Suffolk atmosphere make it feel historic yet lived-in.
How to get from Colchester to Ipswich by bus?
There are 6 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:11, the last at 23:51. The fastest coach covers the 26 km distance in 35m.
Day trip from Colchester to Chelmsford by bus
Why visit Chelmsford for the day?
Chelmsford is Essex’s county city, known for its cathedral and its links to Guglielmo Marconi. A compact centre, riverside parks and a relaxed modern feel give it an easy balance of history and everyday city life.
How to get from Colchester to Chelmsford by bus?
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:14, the last at 23:44. The fastest coach covers the 34 km distance in 50m.
Day trip from Colchester to Clacton-on-Sea by bus
Why visit Clacton-on-Sea for the day?
Clacton-on-Sea is a traditional Essex resort known for its sandy beach, pier and classic seaside amusements. Its promenade and relaxed coastal atmosphere give it the feel of a long-established British holiday town.
How to get from Colchester to Clacton-on-Sea by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:28, the last at 23:18.
FAQs: Portsmouth to Colchester coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a between Portsmouth and Colchester.
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.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Portsmouth and Colchester
Most Portsmouth to Colchester buses use the Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange to Colchester, East Hill / High Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Colchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Portsmouth
Arrival bus stations in Colchester
Portsmouth, University
Portsmouth, The Hard InterchangeThe Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · £1 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · £2 · every ~214 min
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange bus station facilities and services
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at The Hard (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Portsmouth, International PortWharf Road, Portsmouth PO2 8RU, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth, International Port from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth, International Port is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
BusX4, X5, Pr1 · 3m · every ~55 min
8, 3, 7, X4, X5 · 6m · £2 · every ~113 min
725 · 15m · £2
Portsmouth, International Port bus station facilities and services
Portsmouth, International Port has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café in the terminal (in the station), Fast-food outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance of the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, International Port.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth, International Port: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, International Port: Elevators, ramps.
Which Colchester station do buses from Portsmouth arrive at?
Buses from Portsmouth to Colchester arrive at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. Colchester, East Hill / High Street is from Colchester city centre.
Colchester, East Hill / High StreetColchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · £3 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · £1 · every ~3 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street bus station facilities and services
Colchester, East Hill / High Street 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 Colchester, East Hill / High Street. ATMs are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Limited accessibility features.
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Portsmouth
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