By Bus

First Essex buses are the largest commercial operator in Essex, serving destinations from Chelmsford, Colchester, Clacton, Basildon and Southend. They also serve the two Essex airports, with buses through the night to and from London Stansted and London Southend.

We recommend downloading the mTicket app if you are planning on travelling by bus. With mobile ticketing and real time technology allowing you to track your bus, taking the bus around Essex has never been easier.

Visit the First Essex website and the latest updates on services and routes available.

For over 60 years, Hedingham Omnibuses has kept communities connected with a comprehensive network of bus routes across Essex. Serving Colchester, Clacton, Walton on the Naze,  Harwich, West & East Mersea, Braintree, Maldon, Halstead and many places in between. So, whether you fancy a day out at the beach, an historical stroll around Colchester, shopping at the Braintree Outlet Village, a trip to Colchester Zoo,  or a maritime adventure in Harwich & Felixstowe Hedingham Omnibuses can help you and your family to get out and about.

Buy your tickets in advance via the app or pay contactless on the buses. Venture even further afield on an anywhere anytime ticket and you can travel across Suffolk and Essex for only £12.50/£12 on the app.

National Express run coaches to and from over 1,000 destinations throughout the UK, and a regular shuttle bus service operates from Stansted Airport to London Liverpool Street and London Victoria. Click here for more information.

When visiting the City of Chelmsford or the heart of Colchester, Park and Ride offers a convenient and quick way to reach the city centres.

There are two locations in Chelmsford, Sandon and Chelmer Valley, and one location in Colchester. All buses are air conditioned, modern and comfortable and use designated bus lanes. Click here to find out more about Park and Ride in Essex.

Essex is also encouraging residents and visitors to ‘Go green’ and switch from cars to sustainable forms of transport, such as walking, cycling and public buses.

The Stop, Swap and Go campaign provides tips and information on how to travel around Essex easily and sustainably. Find out more here.

Click here to find out more about local coach companies for day trips and excursions.