Pride by coach: The UK’s best LGBTQ+ events you can get to with National Express

Pride by coach: The UK’s best LGBTQ+ events you can get to with National Express

It’s that time of year again rainbow flags, extravagant outfit choices, and enough sequins to stock a haberdashery. Luckily, you can reach all these Pride events by coach without remortgaging your flatshare. Here’s your no-nonsense guide, with websites included so you can check tickets, timetables, or just gawp at the line‑ups.

🏳️‍🌈 Edinburgh Pride (21 June)

Scotland’s capital transforms into a day-long rainbow fest, centred around the parade and performances from Diana Vickers, Kelli-Leigh and more. We drop you right in the city centre, just head for the bagpipes and the inevitable ABBA sing‑alongs.

Book your travel to Edinburgh here.

🏳️‍🌈 Cardiff Pride (Pride Cymru) (21–22 June)

Known as the “Big Weekend,” this two‑day celebration in the Welsh capital brings live music from the likes of Ella Henderson and Una Healy, stalls and one ambitiously colourful parade. The coach stop is just a stone’s throw from the action, but well out of line‑dancing distance.

Book your travel to Cardiff here.

🏳️‍🌈 London Pride (5 July)

The biggest urban Pride fest in the UK, with everything from parades to after‑parties. You can celebrate the day at no more than 6 stages of entertainment across the capital. Luckily Victoria Coach Station puts you a short stumble from the main parade route, so lube up your vocal chords for the inevitable ABBA and Beyoncé mix.

Book your travel to London here.

🏳️‍🌈 Bournemouth Pride (Bourne Free) (11–12 July)

Beachside parties and drag queens by the sea. Friday’s a family fun night, Saturday is the main but expect live music, DJs and oversized sunglasses at both. Our coaches drop you near the seafront. Sand in your shoes is practically part of the experience.

Book your travel to Bournemouth here.

🏳️‍🌈 Sheffield Pride (12 July)

A one‑day, centre‑city feast of community spirit with stalls, drag storytelling and maybe even a pet parade. Our coach drop-off is central, so the hardest part is choosing which sequin accessory to wear.

Book your travel to Sheffield here.

🏳️‍🌈 Glasgow Pride (19 July)

Festival energy at Glasgow’s iconic Barrowlands, capped by a parade and performances. Buchanan Bus Station is nearby, so you can step off and into the fray with minimal fuss and maximal flair.

Book your travel to Glasgow here.

🏳️‍🌈 Newcastle Pride (Northern Pride) (19–20 July)

Two festive days at Times Square with music, food, and a parade on Saturday. Party with the likes of Pixie Lott, Gok Wan (Yes, the Gok Wan) and many more. Plus our coaches bring you straight into central Newcastle, no limbo required.

Book your travel to Newcastle here.

🏳️‍🌈 Brighton Pride (2–3 August)

The UK’s most iconic seaside Pride, complete with Parade, “Pride On The Park” party and headliners,Mariah Carey, anyone?! Not to mention Fatboy Slim, Sugababes and Will Young! Don’t worry about missing any of them as we’ll drop you straight into the glitter zone.

Book your travel to Brighton here. 

Final thoughts (There are only so many weekends)

From city-centre sprints to seaside extravaganzas, this year’s Pride season forms a coherent rainbow ribbon from June to August and we’ve got your back (and your cheap seat) all the way. Just remember:

• Book early, especially for Brighton, London, and Edinburgh.
  
  
• Coach stop proximity varies by city; check the details when booking.
  
  
• Pack snacks, not tuna sandwiches. Trust me on this one.
  
  

Pick your weekend(s), pack your sequins, and enjoy the ride. Because if you know, you go National Express.

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