- Must visit
Folkestone Artworks
An outdoor public art collection spread across the town, featuring permanent works by contemporary artists in everyday settings.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest coaches from Portsmouth to Folkestone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£32
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£33
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
7 h 25 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
7 h 38 m
Buses on 18 Sept
2
Distance
162 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Portsmouth to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Folkestone will cost around £33 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £32.
Fast coaches
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 buses from Portsmouth to Folkestone, including 2 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 162 km distance in an average of 7 h 38 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 25 m .
The slowest buses will take 7 h 51 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.
11:357h25Portsmouth19:00Folkestone£321One-way0 changes- 14:097h51Portsmouth22:00Folkestone£331One-way0 changes
- 11:357h25Portsmouth19:00Folkestone£321One-way0 changes
- 14:097h51Portsmouth22:00Folkestone£331One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Portsmouth to Folkestone
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Folkestone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £22 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £22, while a train costs an average of £32.
Distance: 162 km
Compare bus with
Most popular Coach | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£22 Average Price Cheapest | £32 Average Price | £32 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 2m Average total duration 5h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 44m Average total duration Fastest 4h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Portsmouth to Folkestone is a coach with an average price of £22.
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Folkestone:
A coach is £11 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Folkestone costing on average £32.
The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Folkestone is by train with an average journey time of 4h 14m.
Other travel options to Folkestone take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Folkestone including taking a train and coach.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around £22 compared to roughly £32 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £10. The journey takes 5h 32m versus 2h 22m 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.
Live departures
Portsmouth to Folkestone bus times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Folkestone coaches for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18:29 Portsmouth | 6h51 | 1:20 Folkestone | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Folkestone by train or coach
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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Portsmouth to Folkestone coaches with Omio?
National Express operates all coaches services from Portsmouth to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Folkestone.
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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Portsmouth to Folkestone.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Folkestone run on average 11 times per day, taking around 5h 32m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £22 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 04:50, the last at 18:45. The fastest coach covers the 162 km distance in 7h 30m.
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
Distance 162 km |
Average bus duration 5h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price £22 |
Buses per day 11 |
Fastest bus 7h 30m |
First bus 4:50 |
Last bus 18:45 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Bus providers: National Express from Portsmouth to FolkestoneYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Folkestone with National Express for as low as £22. 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
7h 30m
Cheapest National Express Price
£22
National Express frequency
3 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.
Complete guide to Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
A local history museum in the old town covering Folkestone's past, from seaside life to wartime and archaeology.
- Recommended
Folkestone Arts
A contemporary art venue in a former church, showing changing exhibitions by British and international artists.
- Must visit
The Leas
A broad clifftop promenade with sea views, gardens and major public artworks, ideal for a classic Folkestone walk.
- Must visit
Folkestone Harbour Arm
A revitalised waterfront pier and promenade popular for strolling, sea air, events and views across the harbour.
- Recommended
Creative Quarter
A creative quarter of lanes and workshops with independent shops, murals and regular cultural events in the old centre.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed from the Channel, usually simply grilled or pan-fried. It is a Kent coast classic prized for its sweet, delicate flesh.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Whitstable or Kent oysters are widely eaten along this coast, served raw with lemon. They reflect the long shellfish tradition of the Kent shoreline.
Kent Fish Stew
A rich fish stew from Kentish fishing communities, made with mixed local fish and shellfish in a savoury broth. It showcases the catch from nearby waters.
Marleys
Well-known bistro and wine bar in the old high street area, offering seasonal small plates and a cosy, contemporary setting.
Hatch
Popular independent café and brunch spot on the Harbour Arm, serving coffee, breakfasts and casual plates in a lively seaside atmosphere.
The Smokehouse
Long-established seafood smokehouse and deli near the harbour, known for smoked fish, shellfish and simple coastal meals.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: dining is manageable, but hotels in peak season can rise; local buses are reasonably priced.
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 dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares; cafés may use tip jars, but tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city centre
Middelburg Square, Folkestone -> Folkestone Town Centre, Folkestone
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Stagecoach is the main local bus operator in Folkestone. Contactless payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses.
- Adult single bus fares in England are capped at up to £3 on participating Stagecoach services. Check the Stagecoach Bus app for the exact fare before travel.
FAQs: Portsmouth to Folkestone coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Portsmouth to Folkestone can start from as little as £22 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Portsmouth to Folkestone is £22; 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 coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone is 7h 30m to travel the 162 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone leaves at 4:50. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone leaves at 18:45.
There are 11 coaches a day from Portsmouth to Folkestone which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Folkestone. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Folkestone and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Folkestone from Portsmouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Folkestone including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone for coach company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Portsmouth to Folkestone 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 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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Portsmouth to Folkestone:
- 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 Folkestone:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone with the following coach company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone with the following coach company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Portsmouth to Folkestone with the following coach company: National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Portsmouth and Folkestone
Most Portsmouth to Folkestone buses use the Portsmouth, University to Folkestone, Middelburg Square station pair. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Folkestone 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 Folkestone
Which Portsmouth station do buses to Folkestone leave from?
Buses from Portsmouth to Folkestone leave from Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange. The station is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre at The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UK.
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 · £0.90 · 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, University
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 Folkestone station do buses from Portsmouth arrive at?
Buses from Portsmouth to Folkestone arrive at Folkestone, Middelburg Square. Folkestone, Middelburg Square is 1 km from Folkestone city centre.
Folkestone, Middelburg SquareFolkestone, Middelburg Square, Folkestone CT20 1AU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone, Middelburg Square from Folkestone city centre
Bus17, 91A, 71, 71A, 16, 91, 972, 975, 103, 73, 74 · 4m · £3 · every ~36 min
Folkestone, Middelburg Square bus station facilities and services
Folkestone, Middelburg Square 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 Folkestone, Middelburg Square. ATMs are available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone, Middelburg Square: Accessible via ramps and lowered curbs.
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Folkestone and Portsmouth
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
