- 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 Sep 10
Cheapest price on Sep 10
$71
Average ticket price on Sep 10
$74
Fastest journey on Sep 10
5 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 10
5 h 59 m
Buses on Sep 10
8
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 $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $71.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Bedford to Cambridge without transferring at least 2 times.
UCX5 · NX737 · NX7776:55 PM6h50Bedford, Bus Station1:45 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$711One-way2 transfers- UCX5 · NX737 · NX72711:15 AM6h10Bedford, Bus Station5:25 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$731One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7272:15 PM5h45Bedford, Bus Station8:00 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$731One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7278:15 AM7h15Bedford, Bus Station3:30 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$731One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7274:45 PM6h50Bedford, Bus Station11:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$731One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7286:05 AM5h30Bedford, Bus Station11:35 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$761One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7774:05 AM5h40Bedford, Bus Station9:45 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$781One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7272:15 PM5h45Bedford, Bus Station8:00 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$731One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX72711:15 AM6h10Bedford, Bus Station5:25 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$731One-way2 transfers
- UCX5 · NX737 · NX7276:55 PM6h50Bedford, Bus Station1:45 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$761One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bedford to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bedford to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $67 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 14m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $67, while a train costs an average of $91.
Distance: 24 miles (40 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$67 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price | $12 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 16m Average total duration 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Bedford to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $67 (€54).
This is compared to other travel options from Bedford to Cambridge:
A bus is $24 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bedford to Cambridge costing on average $91 (€74).
The fastest way to travel from Bedford to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 1h 44m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bedford and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bedford to Cambridge among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $67 (€54) compared to roughly $12 (€10) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-54.89 (€-44.30). The journey takes 3h 46m versus 55m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
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 Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Live departures
Bedford to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Cambridge buses for today, Wednesday, September 9. 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 | 6:55 PM Bedford, Bus Station | 6h50 | 1:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX777 | 6:55 PM Bedford, Bus Station | 6h50 | 1:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| Thursday, September 10 | |||||
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX777 | 4:05 AM Bedford, Bus Station | 5h40 | 9:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX728 | 6:05 AM Bedford, Bus Station | 5h30 | 11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 8:15 AM Bedford, Bus Station | 7h15 | 3:30 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 11:15 AM Bedford, Bus Station | 6h10 | 5:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 2:15 PM Bedford, Bus Station | 5h45 | 8:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| UCX5 · NX737 · NX727 | 4:45 PM Bedford, Bus Station | 6h50 | 11:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bedford to Cambridge by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Bedford to Cambridge buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Stagecoach East offer 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Stagecoach East to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Cambridge.
- 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.
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 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $50 (€40) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) 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 $37 (€30)
Distance 24 miles (40 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€40) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 3h 30m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 11:22 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
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 $37 (€30)
Bus providers: National Express from Bedford to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Bedford to Cambridge with National Express for as low as $37 (€30). 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
$50 (€40)
National Express frequency
8 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.
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.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Bedford to Cambridge can start from as little as $50 (€40) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bedford to Cambridge is $67 (€54) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Bedford to Cambridge is 3h 30m to travel the 24 miles (40 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
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, Stagecoach East. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bedford to Cambridge, you can count on National Express, Stagecoach East 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.
A trip to Cambridge from Bedford is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bedford to Cambridge is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bedford and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bedford to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bedford to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cambridge are:
- King's College Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture known for its impressive fan vault and beautiful stained glass windows
- The Fitzwilliam Museum, a renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the world
- The Backs, a picturesque area along the River Cam offering scenic views of the colleges and lush gardens
- Trinity College, one of the largest and wealthiest colleges in Cambridge, famous for its historic Great Court and library
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden showcasing a diverse range of plant species and offering a tranquil escape from the city.
The best things to do in Cambridge include:
- Punting on the River Cam, a traditional Cambridge activity offering scenic views of the colleges and bridges
- Visit the Cambridge Science Centre, an interactive museum perfect for families and science enthusiasts
- Explore the historic Market Square, where you can find local produce, crafts, and street food
- Attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, featuring a variety of shows from drama to comedy
- Take a guided walking tour to discover the rich history and hidden gems of Cambridge.
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 National Express.
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.
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.
Since neither Bedford nor Cambridge are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bedford to Cambridge among Omio's users.
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.
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 · $2 · every ~7 min
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) from Cambridge city centre
BusTour · 31m · $2 · 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
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