Fareham to Southsea this summer!
Fareham to South Parade Pier via the M275, an express service announced by First Bus.
New X3 Route to Launch Between Fareham and South Parade Pier
First Portsmouth, Fareham & Gosport will introduce a brand-new X3 service on Monday 27th July 2026, providing a direct link between Fareham Bus Station and South Parade Pier in Southsea.
Operating Monday to Saturday, the new route will offer a fast and convenient connection between Fareham, Portchester, Paulsgrove, Portsmouth city centre and Southsea. There will be no Sunday service.
A New Cross-City Connection
The X3 has been designed to provide improved links between communities on the western side of Portsmouth and key destinations including Portsmouth International Port, the city centre, The Hard Interchange and Southsea seafront.
The route will serve:
* Fareham Bus Station * Portchester Precinct * Paulsgrove Racecourse Lane * Portsmouth International Port * Victoria Park * Portsmouth The Hard Interchange * Southsea Shops * South Parade Pier
The service provides direct access to major shopping, employment, leisure and transport hubs along the route.
Frequent Daytime Service
Buses will operate every 30 minutes throughout most of the day, providing a turn-up-and-go frequency for passengers travelling between Fareham and Portsmouth.
The first departure from Fareham Bus Station leaves at 07:25, arriving at South Parade Pier at 08:15.
The first departure from South Parade Pier leaves at 08:30, arriving at Fareham Bus Station at 09:22.
Evening Journeys Included
The X3 will continue operating into the evening, with departures from Fareham running until 22:30 and journeys from Southsea departing until 23:19.
This provides additional travel opportunities for commuters, shoppers, visitors and those enjoying Portsmouth's evening attractions.
Better Links for Portsmouth International Port
A key feature of the new service is its direct connection to Portsmouth International Port, offering convenient public transport access for ferry passengers, port employees and visitors travelling to and from the city.
The route will also strengthen links between Fareham, Portchester and Portsmouth's waterfront destinations.
Service Information
* Route: X3 * Operator: First Portsmouth, Fareham & Gosport * Start Date: Monday 27th July 2026 * Frequency: Every 30 minutes during most daytime periods * Days of Operation: Monday to Saturday * Sunday Service: No * Termini: Fareham Bus Station – South Parade Pier
Passengers are advised to check the full timetable before travelling and allow extra time during periods of heavy traffic.