London
Bournemouth

London to Bournemouth: Cheapest Travel Options

Best Travel Options

Exploring the best ways to journey from London to Bournemouth? Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

Travel Time: Trains whisk you to Bournemouth swiftly within about 2 hours, ideal for quick getaways. Buses are slower, taking around 2-3 hours, but they’re perfect for laid-back travel.

Cost: If you’re budget-savvy, buses win with their affordability, while trains, with higher fares, save time. Driving incurs fuel and parking costs but can be economical for groups.

Experience: Buses offer scenic routes and relaxation, trains combine speed with comfort, and cars provide the ultimate in travel freedom and personal space.

🧳 Covering a short trip of roughly 159 km (about 99 miles), this guide invites you to dive deeper into your travel options. Keep scrolling to learn more!

Best Travel Options

Bus vs Train

Traveling from London to Bournemouth by train or bus? Consider these factors:

Speed: Trains whisk you to Bournemouth in 1.5-3 hours, while buses take a leisurely 2-3 hours, giving you more time to unwind and enjoy the view.

Cost: Bus journeys score high on affordability, offering a frugal alternative to trains. Save your pennies and still savor an enriching travel experience.

Onboard Amenities: Buses come with the convenience of free Wi-Fi and reclining seats, but trains step it up with additional services like power outlets and refreshments.

Bus vs Train

Frequently asked questions

Embark on a scenic journey from London to Bournemouth, where coastal charm meets vibrant city life. Discover hassle-free travel options, affordable tickets, and top destinations, ensuring a memorable trip. Explore the best of England with ease.

route faq

Cheapest Travel Options

Board a coach or catch a train and save big traveling from London to Bournemouth. National Express and Megabus offer coach services at £5 to £30, while train rides via South Western Railway and CrossCountry range from £12 to £40. The coach ride takes between 2.5 to 3 hours, trains cut it just under 2, and with ridesharing, you could be looking at 2 to 2.5 hours of travel time.

Travel smart and enjoy low-cost options tailored to different needs. Families can benefit from train discounts, while business travelers might prioritize the efficient train timings. Budget travelers and groups will find amazing deals on coaches, particularly with early bookings on Megabus. Let’s find your perfect travel match for a cost-effective, comfortable journey.

Cheapest Travel Options
Save money

Cheap tickets from London to Bournemouth

The price of tickets from London to Bournemouth is cheaper for a one-way standard class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

Book in advance

Most of the companies release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper tickets from London to Bournemouth by booking early.

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the services are also popular commuter services, lots of companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider traveling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting transport

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting transport. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Travel Tips

The best tips from our team for your next trip

"Research sightseeing opportunities along your route, such as landmarks, tourist attractions, or scenic routes, and plan your itinerary accordingly."

"Choosing the right seat, such as one with extralegroom or a window seat, can help maximize comfort during your journey."

"Check the pet policies of the bus or train company you are traveling with, and make sure your pet is allowed on board."

"Learn basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings or common phrases, to show respect and build connections with locals."

"Keep your valuables like cash, passport, andimportant documents in a secure place, like a neck wallet or a money belt.Avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry."

"Choose a mode of transportation that allows you to work comfortably, such as a train with spacious seating or a bus with Wi-Fi."

"Research the local culture and customs of the places you will be traveling through, and learn about the history, traditions, and values of the people."

"Bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey."

"Traveling during off-peak hours can save moneyon bus and train fares, as prices tend to be lower during non-peak times."

"Arrive on time for your bus or train, and be respectful of other passengers' schedules."

"Consider choosing eco-friendly transport options like buses or trains instead of driving alone in a car, which can help reduce your carbon footprint."

Travel Hotspots

Discover the Top Transit Hubs

Discover the top transit hubs with our comprehensive list of the busiest and most important bus and train stations. Find out which stations offer the best connections and travel options for your next trip. Plan your trip with ease and efficiency by exploring our guide to the key transit hubs.