- Must visit
Turner Contemporary
Contemporary gallery on the seafront showing modern and historic art linked to J M W Turner and the changing light of the Kent coast.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Margate
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Margate run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 49m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £20 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 03:05, the last at 19:15. The fastest coach covers the 185 km distance in 5h 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
Distance 185 km |
Average bus duration 5h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price £20 |
Buses per day 13 |
Fastest bus 5h 0m |
First bus 3:05 |
Last bus 19:15 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Why should you book Portsmouth to Margate coaches with Omio?
National Express operates all coaches services from Portsmouth to Margate.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Margate.
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 Portsmouth to Margate.
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 Portsmouth to Margate.
Bus providers: National Express from Portsmouth to MargateYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Margate with National Express for as low as £20. 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
5h 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
£20
National Express frequency
13 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 Margate
Things to do in Margate
Discover the best of Margate — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Margate trip today.
- Recommended
The Crab Museum
Museum exploring the history of crab museum collections through natural science, art and humour. A quirky recent favourite in the Old Town.
- Recommended
Tracey Karloff
Artist Tracey Emin’s gallery and studio space in Margate, presenting rotating exhibitions of contemporary art in a carefully restored bathhouse.
- Must visit
Margate Main Sands
Sandy Blue Flag beach beside the harbour and old town. Ideal for sea views, paddling and classic seaside atmosphere close to major attractions.
- Recommended
Margate Harbour Arm
Historic harbour arm and quayside with sea views, galleries, events and access to the lighthouse. A lively place for a walk in all seasons.
- Recommended
Margate Old Town
Characterful quarter of narrow streets with independent shops, antiques, small galleries and historic buildings just behind the seafront.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Fresh native oysters from the Kent coast, long linked to nearby Whitstable and Thanet. Briny, mineral and traditionally eaten simply with lemon.
Fish And Chips
A classic seaside supper of battered white fish and chips, deeply rooted in Margate’s harbour and beach culture.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Or Pickled Herring
Fresh herring, traditionally cured or smoked in Kent. It reflects the historic fishing trade along the Thanet coast.
Barletta
Established bistro and wine bar in Margate Old Town, serving seasonal small plates and European-leaning cooking.
Angela's
Popular seafront seafood restaurant by the harbour, known for fresh fish, shellfish and relaxed coastal views.
The Greedy Cow
Stylish casual spot near the seafront serving brunch, coffee and modern British plates in a bright, friendly setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Dining and accommodation are often cheaper than London, but summer weekends and seafront stays can raise prices.
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
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is good and not already added. Round up small taxi fares. Cafés do not expect tips, but spare change is welcome.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city centre
Margate, Marine Terrace -> Margate Town Centre, Cecil Square
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Stagecoach operates most local buses in Margate, including the Loop linking Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate. Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses.
- If you plan several bus journeys in Thanet, a DayRider may be better value than separate single fares. Buy tickets on board or in the Stagecoach Bus app.
Best day trips from Margate by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Margate are Canterbury, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Whitstable and Herne Bay. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Margate on Omio.
Day trip from Margate to Canterbury by bus
Why visit Canterbury for the day?
Canterbury is best known for its cathedral, medieval streets and long role in English religious history. Its compact centre mixes historic buildings with a lively student atmosphere, independent shops and riverside walks.
How to get from Margate to Canterbury by bus?
There are 5 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:18, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 24 km distance in 35m.
Day trip from Margate to Broadstairs by bus
Why visit Broadstairs for the day?
Broadstairs is a Kent seaside town known for sandy bays and its connection to Charles Dickens. Viking Bay, cliff walks and a traditional promenade give it a relaxed coastal character.
How to get from Margate to Broadstairs by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:14, the last at 23:30.
Day trip from Margate to Ramsgate by bus
Why visit Ramsgate for the day?
Ramsgate is a Kent seaside town known for its Royal Harbour, elegant seafront and sandy beach. Its maritime history, links to the Dunkirk evacuation and lively waterfront give it a practical, historic character.
How to get from Margate to Ramsgate by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:35.
Day trip from Margate to Whitstable by bus
Why visit Whitstable for the day?
Whitstable is a north Kent seaside town known for oysters, a working harbour and a relaxed maritime feel. Its shingle beach, beach huts and independent cafés give it an easy-going character shaped by fishing traditions.
How to get from Margate to Whitstable by bus?
There are 6 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:17, the last at 23:30. The fastest coach covers the 25 km distance in 55m.
Day trip from Margate to Herne Bay by bus
Why visit Herne Bay for the day?
Herne Bay is a traditional Kent seaside town known for its shingle beach and Victorian seafront. It feels calmer than larger resorts, with beach huts, coastal walks and a distinct north Kent maritime character.
How to get from Margate to Herne Bay by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:33, the last at 22:17.
FAQs: Portsmouth to Margate coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Margate 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 Margate, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Portsmouth to Margate can start from as little as £20 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Portsmouth to Margate is £24; 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 Margate is 5h 0m to travel the 185 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 Margate leaves at 3:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Portsmouth to Margate leaves at 19:15.
There are 13 coaches a day from Portsmouth to Margate 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 Margate, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Margate. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Margate and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Margate including taking a coach and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Portsmouth to Margate for coach company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Portsmouth to Margate:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Portsmouth to Margate 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 Margate.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Portsmouth to Margate:
- 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 Margate:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Portsmouth to Margate.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Portsmouth to Margate with the following coach company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Portsmouth to Margate with the following coach company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Portsmouth to Margate with the following coach company: National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Portsmouth and Margate
Most Portsmouth to Margate buses use the Portsmouth, University to Margate, Marine Terrace station pair, with some services arriving at Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Margate 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 Margate
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.
Which Margate station do buses from Portsmouth arrive at?
Buses from Portsmouth to Margate most often arrive at Margate, Marine Terrace. Some services arrive at Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Margate arrival station.
Margate, Marine TerraceMargate, Station Approach, Margate CT9 5AD, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Margate, Marine Terrace from Margate city centre
Bus35 · 7m
944, 8 · 10m · £3 · every ~4 min
Margate, Marine Terrace bus station facilities and services
Margate, Marine Terrace 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 Margate, Marine Terrace. ATMs are available at Margate, Marine Terrace.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Margate, Marine Terrace.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Margate, Marine Terrace: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Margate, Marine Terrace: The station is accessible for wheelchair users.
Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court
City-centre transport
Getting to Margate, Cliftonville Darwin Court from Margate city centre
Bus69 · 9m · £3 · every ~2 min
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Margate
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Margate and Portsmouth
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