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Find London to Brighton bus tickets

from
London, United Kingdom
to
Brighton, United Kingdom

Why Choose the Bus from London to Brighton

Traveling from London to Brighton offers a delightful journey along the southern coast of England. Choosing the right mode of transportation can greatly enhance your experience, whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or scenic views.

💰 Cost-Effectiveness


pros
  • Bus fares between London and Brighton are generally more affordable than train tickets, making it a budget-friendly option.
  • Many bus companies offer discounts for advance bookings and group travel, further reducing costs.
cons
  • Longer travel times compared to trains can make it less ideal for last-minute trips.

🛎️ Comfort and Amenities


pros
  • Modern coaches often feature comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets for a pleasant journey.
  • Passengers can enjoy more legroom and the ability to move around during the trip, compared to crowded train services.
cons
  • Bus stations, like Victoria Coach Station, may not always be as conveniently located as train stations for some travelers.

⭐ Scenic Views


pros
  • The bus route from London to Brighton allows passengers to enjoy picturesque views of the English countryside and coastal landscapes.
  • Traveling at a slower pace provides opportunities to appreciate the sights that might be missed when speeding by on a train.
cons
  • Traffic conditions can impact travel time and may hinder the experience of the scenic route.

highlights:

Travel times are longer compared to trains, which may not suit tight schedules.

Cost-effective travel options can suit a variety of budgets.

Comfortable amenities enhance the overall travel experience.

Scenic views make the journey enjoyable and memorable.

Bus Options from London to Brighton

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
DirectGatwick ExpressLondon Victoria, LondonBrighton, Brighton and Hove, UK09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:0009:58, 10:58, 11:58, 12:58, 13:58Every hour58m
£
17-30
ConnectingNational ExpressVictoria Coach Station, LondonBrighton Pool Valley Coach Station, Brighton09:15, 10:15, 11:15, 12:15, 13:1512:48, 13:48, 14:48, 15:48, 16:48Every 30 minutes3h 15m
£
10-20
London
ConnectingSouthern/ThameslinkLondon Victoria, LondonBrighton, Brighton and Hove, UK09:10, 10:10, 11:10, 12:10, 13:1010:23, 11:23, 12:23, 13:23, 14:233 trains per hour1h 13m
£
15-25
East Croydon

Comparison of Bus Operators from London to Brighton

When traveling from London to Brighton, comparing different bus operators is crucial for finding the best deal and experience to suit your travel needs. Each operator offers varying pricing, amenities, and policies that can significantly impact your journey. This comparison focuses on key criteria such as price, pricing policies, amenities, baggage allowance, and accessibility to help you make an informed decision.

CriteriaNational ExpressGatwick ExpressSouthern Railway
Price Range£ 10 - £ 25£ 19 - £ 30£ 15 - £ 28
pricing policies
refund policyTickets are fully refundable up to 24 hours before departure with a £5 processing fee.Refundable as long as tickets are returned prior to departure for a £10 fee.Tickets are refundable with a £10 administration fee.
Ticket ChangesChanges can be made for free up to 1 hour before the scheduled departure.Free changes can be made before the time of departure.Tickets are non-transferable but can be changed for £5.
discountsStudents and seniors can receive a discount of 20% on all tickets.Children under 16 travel for half price.Group bookings (10 or more) receive a 10% discount.
amenitiesFree WiFi, Power outlets, Air conditioning, Restroom facilitiesFirst class seating, Refreshments available for purchase, Free WiFi, Onboard entertainmentCharging sockets, Tray tables, Air conditioning
baggage allowance
free allowanceOne large suitcase (up to 20 kg) and one piece of hand luggage.Two pieces of luggage per passenger with no weight limit.No specific limit but must be manageable for passengers.
Additional FeesExtra bags incur a charge of £5 each and oversized bags £10.No additional fees for extra baggage.Oversized items charged at £10.
accessibilityBuses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and designated seating areas for passengers with disabilities.Fully accessible with priority seating and space for wheelchairs.Most services are accessible with dedicated staff support on request.

Choosing the right bus operator for your journey from London to Brighton depends on your preferences for price, flexibility, and amenities. National Express offers competitive prices with comprehensive onboard facilities, while Gatwick Express provides comfort and accessibility for a slightly higher fare. Southern Railway, while more limited in amenities, is a viable option for group travelers on a budget. Overall, travelers should weigh their priorities, whether saving on costs, seeking convenience, or requiring special accessibility features.

Bus Stops and Stations from London to Brighton

Knowing about bus stops and stations is essential for ensuring a smooth travel experience between London and Brighton.

Main Bus Stations in London

Victoria Coach Station

Located in the heart of London, just a short walk from landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the London Eye.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Access via London Underground (Victoria, Circle, and District Lines)
  • Numerous local bus routes servicing the area
  • Close proximity to Victoria Railway Station for train connections
  • Taxi and rideshare services readily available
  • Parking facilities available for private vehicles
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time to navigate the station and board comfortably.
  • Be aware of security checks, especially during peak travel times.
  • Try to avoid early mornings and late afternoons for less crowded environments.
  • Explore nearby amenities such as restaurants and shops if time permits.

Main Bus Stations in Brighton

Brighton Coach Station

Conveniently situated near Brighton city center, just a short walk from the iconic Brighton Pier and the Royal Pavilion.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Local shops and food options nearby
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Local buses with connections to various parts of the city
  • Brighton Railway Station is within walking distance for further travel
  • Taxi and rideshare options available near the station
  • Limited parking spaces for those driving
  • Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before scheduled arrival for disembarking.
  • Be mindful of peak tourist seasons that can lead to crowded conditions.
  • Take advantage of close attractions if the weather permits.
  • Keep an eye out for local transport options to reach your final destination quickly.

En Route Stops

Gatwick Airport

Duration: 10m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Food and beverage outlets
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Shops and services

Crawley

Duration: 5m

facilities

  • Bus shelters
  • Local shops nearby
  • Restrooms

Haywards Heath

Duration: 5m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas
  • Cafés or food options nearby

Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations and significant stops between London and Brighton ensures a more efficient and enjoyable journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Plan for Scenic Stops

    The bus route from London to Brighton offers picturesque views; be sure to sit on the right side for the best scenery, especially as you approach the South Downs National Park, where rolling hills provide a stunning backdrop.

  • 📍 Check for Events Before You Travel

    Brighton hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Brighton Fringe or Pride. Check the schedule before you travel, as events can create a lively atmosphere but also lead to busy streets and transport delays.

  • 🚍 Pack for the Beach

    Brighton’s famous beachfront is a major attraction. Bring along essentials like sunscreen, beach towels, and water, as you may not find them easily upon arrival, especially during the busy summer months.

  • 🎭 Use Local Transport for Exploration

    Upon reaching Brighton, consider utilizing the local buses or the vintage Volk's Electric Railway for easy access to sites like the Royal Pavilion and the pier. The bus station is conveniently located near the city center.

  • 🏛 Be Mindful of Peak Times

    Travel during off-peak hours if possible. Buses can be crowded during weekends and holidays. Early morning weekdays or late afternoon return trips often have more available seating.

FAQ

The bus journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific bus service you choose, so plan accordingly.
Yes, several coach companies offer direct services from various London locations, including Victoria Coach Station to Brighton’s central bus station.
Most buses provide comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, charging ports, and often a toilet. Some services may have refreshments for sale.
While it's not mandatory, booking tickets in advance can save you money and guarantee your seat, especially during busy travel seasons.
Spring and early autumn are ideal for visiting Brighton, as the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists, making the bus journey more enjoyable.

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