However you choose to travel, think carefully about how much luggage you bring with you... are there things you can buy when you get here, will you be able to carry your luggage by yourself and are there any luggage restrictions with your plane/bus/train ticket? You can read more about what you need to bring with you on our what to bring webpage.
Below you will find details about how to travel from UK airports to Bournemouth, as well as any travel support available to you:
Airport coach travel
Airport coach travel
Usually the cheapest way to travel from the airport to Bournemouth is by coach. The main coach operator in the UK is National Express and we're working with them to offer discounted airport transfers to new international students starting at BU in January 2026. National Express coaches are comfortable, spacious and include air-conditioning and free wi-fi.
You must book using the links below, at least 3 days before you travel to get the discount. The offer varies depending on when you are travelling:
Are you travelling on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday? Get a 25% discount via this link.
Are you travelling Friday to Sunday between 19 December and February? Get a 20% discount via this link.
Are you travelling Friday to Sunday before 19 December or after 8 February? Get a 15% discount via this link.
Airport taxi transfers
If you would like to arrange a taxi transfer from the airport to Bournemouth, it is important that you do this before you travel. If you don’t have an advance booking it will be a lot more expensive.
BU has a good relationship with two local airport taxi companies – Travel Link ([email protected]) and Bournemouth Airport Transfers. Please contact them directly and keep in mind that they are more likely to be able to help you if you book at least two weeks in advance of your travel date.
Alternatively, if you look on the website for your airport (e.g. Heathrow, Gatwick etc.) you will find information about reputable taxi companies which you can contact to arrange your travel.
Rail services
It’s possible to travel by train from most airports to Bournemouth. When planning your journey, consider how many times you would need to change trains, how much luggage you’ll have and how much it costs. It is often more expensive to travel by train than coach.
How to reach us from different UK airports
If you’ll be making your way to Bournemouth via an airport, the way you make your onward journey will, of course, depend on where you land. That’s why we’ve outlined some helpful tips below. Please note that journey times and prices are only approximate.