1map logoGo to main page

Find London to East Kilbride bus tickets

from
London, United Kingdom
to
East Kilbride, United Kingdom

Why Choose Bus from London to East Kilbride

Traveling from London to East Kilbride presents unique challenges and opportunities, making it essential to choose the right mode of transportation. While trains and flights are available, bus travel offers a distinct blend of affordability and convenience for this specific route.

💰 Cost-Effective


pros
  • Bus fares between London and East Kilbride range from €55 - €85, making it a more affordable option compared to train fares which can often exceed this range.
  • Avoiding hidden fees often associated with flights, such as baggage and seat selection costs, makes bus travel financially favorable.
cons
  • Longer travel time at approximately 8 hours and 51 minutes compared to the quicker train option.

🛎️ Convenient Departures and Arrivals


pros
  • Buses depart from London Victoria, a central location that is easily accessible by public transport.
  • Arriving at Hamilton station provides a seamless transfer to East Kilbride via local services.
cons
  • The need for transfers may cause slight delays and add complexity to the travel experience.

⭐ Scenic Route


pros
  • The bus journey features beautiful views of the English countryside and Scottish landscapes, providing a unique travel experience.
  • Passengers can enjoy watching the scenery change as they travel north, which can make the long journey feel less tedious.
cons
  • Unlike trains, the bus may have limited onboard amenities, such as Wi-Fi and comfortable seating, depending on the operator.

highlights:

Be prepared for a longer journey that requires a transfer, and plan accordingly to manage your time effectively.

Bus travel from London to East Kilbride is cost-effective, providing significant savings when compared to other transportation modes.

Convenient departure and arrival locations enhance the overall travel experience.

The scenic route offers passengers a more enjoyable journey as they transition from vibrant city life to serene landscapes.

Bus Options from London to East Kilbride

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
ConnectingNational ExpressLondon Victoria, LondonSt Brides Church, East Kilbride08:30, 10:15, 12:45, 14:3017:21, 19:06, 21:36, 23:21Every 2 hours8h 51m
55-85
Hamilton

Comparison of Bus Operators from London to East Kilbride

Comparing bus operators servicing the route from London to East Kilbride is crucial for travelers seeking the best combination of price, amenities, and overall travel experience. This route, though lacking direct services, can be navigated efficiently with the right operator. Here, we present a detailed overview of significant bus operators providing this service, focusing on key criteria that affect the traveler's choice.

CriteriaNational ExpressFlixBus
Price Range 55 - 85 60 - 90
pricing policies
refund policyRefunds are available up to 48 hours before departure with a 10% fee.Full refunds available within 14 days of purchase, otherwise non-refundable.
Ticket ChangesChanges can be made to tickets up to 2 hours before departure for a fee.Tickets can be changed up to 15 minutes before departure at no cost.
discountsDiscounts available for seniors, students and children.Seasonal discounts and group travel discounts available.
amenitiesFree WiFi, Onboard refreshments, Charging points, Air conditioningComplimentary snacks, WiFi, Reclining seats, Onboard restroom
baggage allowance
free allowance1 carry-on bag up to 10kg and 1 suitcase up to 20kg.1 personal item and 1 suitcase up to 25kg.
Additional FeesExtra fees apply for baggage exceeding the size or weight limits.Fees apply for additional items or oversized luggage.
accessibilityAll buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and designated seating for disabled passengers.Accessibility options include low-floor buses and priority seating for persons with disabilities.

Both National Express and FlixBus offer competitive pricing and solid amenities for the journey from London to East Kilbride. National Express provides a more structured refund policy and additional amenities such as onboard refreshments, while FlixBus offers more flexibility in ticket changes and competitive discounts. Travelers seeking the best overall value should consider their specific needs, such as duration of travel, comfort, and budget, before making a choice.

Bus Stops and Stations from London to East Kilbride

Knowing about the bus stops and stations is essential for seamless travel between London and East Kilbride.

Main Bus Stations in London

Victoria Coach Station

Situated in the heart of London, a short walk from Victoria train station and close to major attractions like Buckingham Palace.
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
  • Public transportation options: Gatwick Express, London Underground (Victoria Line), numerous bus services.
  • Taxi and rideshare services available at designated pickup points.
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles are available nearby.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
  • Be mindful of security checks and ticket validation procedures.
  • Avoid peak hours from 8 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 6 PM for a less crowded experience.
  • If time allows, visit nearby shops and restaurants in Victoria.

Main Bus Stations in East Kilbride

East Kilbride Bus Station

Located in the center of East Kilbride, adjacent to shopping areas and close to the East Kilbride train station.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Covered waiting areas
  • Ticket vending machines
  • Local shops and kiosks
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • ATM services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Local bus services connecting to various areas within East Kilbride.
  • Taxi and rideshare services available nearby.
  • Nearby train station provides further connections to Glasgow and beyond.
  • Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your bus departs.
  • Keep your ticket handy for validation at the station.
  • Be aware of quieter times, typically before noon on weekdays.
  • Explore nearby stores or cafés if you have spare time after arriving.

En Route Stops

Milton Keynes Coachway

Duration: 20m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Cafés and vending machines
  • Seating areas

Birmingham Coach Station

Duration: 30m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Food options available
  • Seating and Wi-Fi access

Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations in London and East Kilbride can greatly enhance your travel experience and ensure a smooth journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Plan for Scenic Views

    The bus journey from London to East Kilbride takes you through some beautiful landscapes. Make sure to sit on the right side for stunning views of rolling hills and the Scottish countryside, especially as you approach Glasgow.

  • 📍 Take Advantage of Local Food Stops

    There are excellent local eateries along the route. Make a brief stop at service stations, where you can sample Scottish pies and drinks. It’s a great way to experience local flavors during your journey.

  • 🚍 Be Prepared for Weather Changes

    Weather in Scotland can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and pack a small umbrella. You may find it rainy in East Kilbride even if it’s sunny when you leave London.

  • 🎭 Stay Connected with On-board Wi-Fi

    Many buses offer complimentary Wi-Fi. Take advantage of this service to catch up on travel blogs, download maps, or simply stay connected while enjoying your ride.

  • 🏛 Explore Cultural Stops

    The bus may have scheduled stops at historical sites and towns along the way. Research these highlights ahead of time and plan to hop off for a quick exploration if time allows.

FAQ

The trip typically takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and any scheduled stops along the route.
Yes, major points include Milton Keynes and Glasgow. These stops can be great for stretching your legs or grabbing a snack.
Most buses on this route provide free Wi-Fi. Be sure to check with the bus company beforehand, as availability can vary.
Traveling early in the morning or late at night is ideal to minimize delays due to traffic congestion, especially around major cities like London and Glasgow.
If you are a UK citizen, no special documentation is required. However, travelers from abroad should have their passport and any necessary visas ready for identification during the journey.