- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bedford to Cambridge
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 25
Cheapest price on Oct 25
$77
Average ticket price on Oct 25
$79
Fastest journey on Oct 25
5 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 25
6 h 14 m
Buses on Oct 25
6
Distance
40 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bedford to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bedford to Cambridge will cost around $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Bedford to Cambridge without transferring at least 2 times.
UCX5 · NX737 · NX7777:15 PM6h30Bedford, Bus Station1:45 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$771One-way2 transfers- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7277:15 PM6h30Bedford, Bus Station1:45 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$771One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7272:15 PM5h20Bedford, Bus Station7:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$801One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7278:15 AM7h10Bedford, Bus Station3:25 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$801One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX72711:15 AM5h40Bedford, Bus Station4:55 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$801One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7272:15 PM5h20Bedford, Bus Station7:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$801One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX72711:15 AM5h40Bedford, Bus Station4:55 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$801One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7777:15 PM6h30Bedford, Bus Station1:45 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$771One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7277:15 PM6h30Bedford, Bus Station1:45 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$771One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7278:15 AM7h10Bedford, Bus Station3:25 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$801One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bedford to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Bedford to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $48 (€41) but you can travel from only $36 (€31) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 23:22. The fastest bus covers the 24 miles (40 km) distance in 3h 30m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $36 (€31)
Distance 24 miles (40 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€41) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 3h 30m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 11:22 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $36 (€31)
Frequently asked questions about your Bedford to Cambridge trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bedford to Cambridge.
Cheap bus tickets from Bedford to Cambridge can start from as little as $48 (€41) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bedford to Cambridge is $66 (€55) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Bedford to Cambridge leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bedford to Cambridge leaves at 11:22 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Bedford to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Bedford to Cambridge Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:05AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $77 |
Live departures
Bedford to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Cambridge buses for tomorrow, Sunday, October 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 8:15 AM Bedford, Bus Station | 7h10 | 3:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 11:15 AM Bedford, Bus Station | 5h40 | 4:55 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 2:15 PM Bedford, Bus Station | 5h20 | 7:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 4:15 PM Bedford, Bus Station | 7h20 | 11:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX777 | 7:15 PM Bedford, Bus Station | 6h30 | 1:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 7:15 PM Bedford, Bus Station | 6h30 | 1:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bedford to Cambridge buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Bedford to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bedford to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bedford to Cambridge.
Bus providers: National Express from Bedford to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Bedford to Cambridge with National Express for as low as $36 (€31). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest National Express Price
$48 (€41)
National Express frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bedford and Cambridge
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Bedford to Cambridge, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bedford and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bedford to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bedford to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bedford to Cambridge depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Bedford to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bedford to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Bedford to Cambridge:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Bedford to Cambridge.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bedford to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bedford to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bedford to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Recommended
Scott Polar Research Institute Museum
Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.
- Must visit
The Backs
The city's most famous riverside walking area, lined with college gardens and views. Classic place for strolling, punting and photography.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic central square with market stalls, buskers and everyday city life. A practical and lively base for sightseeing and shopping.
- Recommended
Jesus Green
Leafy riverside common ideal for walking, picnics and broad views of the college skyline. Popular with locals and visitors year-round.
- Vegetarian
Cambridge Burnt Cream
A creamy dessert of whipped cream, meringue and raspberry coulis, created at Cambridge’s Trinity College and named after the River Cam.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Trinity Cream
The Cambridge version of crème brûlée, linked to Trinity College. It has a rich custard base with a hard caramelised sugar top.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridgeshire Asparagus
Tender local asparagus from the Cambridgeshire fens, prized in spring for its sweetness and freshness, often served simply with butter or eggs.
Midsummer House
Elegant riverside fine dining restaurant known for refined British tasting menus and polished service in a historic setting.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
Historic city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking with seasonal ingredients in a smart, intimate atmosphere.
The Eagle
Well-known Cambridge pub and dining room offering classic British dishes, cask ales and a lively, traditional atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.50
To the city center
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) -> Cambridge City Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Cambridge; tap your card or device when you board.
- Parkside is already very central, so many city centre destinations are reachable on foot in about 5 min.
Plan your visit to Cambridge
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cambridge.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Bedford to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford to Cambridge by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bedford and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Bedford to Cambridge
Most Bedford to Cambridge buses use the Bedford, Bus Station to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) station pair. Use this guide to compare Bedford and Cambridge bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Bedford
Arrival bus stations in Cambridge
Bedford, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Bedford, Bus Station from Bedford city centre
Bus4 · 4m · $3 · every ~7 min
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) from Cambridge city centre
BusTour · 31m · $3 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from Bedford
More options for your journey from Bedford to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cambridge and Bedford
Most popular bus connections to Cambridge
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