Blackpool to Cardiff bus with National Express

Mon, Sep 14
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Blackpool to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14

Cheapest price on Sep 14

$29

Average ticket price on Sep 14

$46

Fastest journey on Sep 14

10 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Sep 14

12 h 16 m

Buses on Sep 14

4

Distance

260 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Blackpool to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Blackpool to Cardiff will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Blackpool to Cardiff without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    7:50 AM14h35
    Blackpool, Central Coach Station
    10:25 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $291One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX121 · NX111
    9:35 AM10h10
    Blackpool, Central Coach Station
    7:45 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
    $481One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX121 · NX100 · NX202
    12:40 PM12h10
    Blackpool, Central Coach Station
    12:50 AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
    $541One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX121 · NX100 · NX202
    12:40 PM12h10
    Blackpool, Central Coach Station
    12:50 AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
    $541One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Blackpool to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Blackpool to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $47 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 36m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, while a train costs an average of $139.

Distance: 161 miles (260 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$47

Average price

Cheapest

$139

Average price

$76

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 9m

Average total duration

7h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 16m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

National Express

Most popular bus company

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Blackpool to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $47.

This is compared to other travel options from Blackpool to Cardiff:

A bus is $92 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Blackpool to Cardiff costing on average $139.

The fastest way to travel from Blackpool to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 4h 6m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 39m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Blackpool and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Blackpool to Cardiff 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 $47 compared to roughly $76 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $29. The journey takes 7h 39m versus 4h 16m 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.

Blackpool to Cardiff Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:50AM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
12h35
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:50AM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
14h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:35AM
Arrival Time
07:45PM
Duration
10h10
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$48
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:55AM
Arrival Time
07:00PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Wed, Sat
Cheapest price
$39
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55AM
Arrival Time
07:10PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:40PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
12h10
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
01:45AM
Duration
12h15
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$69
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:50PM
Arrival Time
04:40AM
Duration
13h50
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
05:35AM
Duration
13h45
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$43

Live departures

Blackpool to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Blackpool to Cardiff buses for tomorrow, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus7:50 AM Blackpool, Central Coach Station
14h35
10:25 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
National ExpressNX121 · NX1119:35 AM Blackpool, Central Coach Station
10h10
7:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
National ExpressNX121 · NX100 · NX20212:40 PM Blackpool, Central Coach Station
12h10
12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2 transfers
National ExpressNX121 · NX100 · NX20212:40 PM Blackpool, Central Coach Station
12h10
12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Blackpool to Cardiff 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.

Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20

Why should you book Blackpool to Cardiff buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Blackpool to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Blackpool to Cardiff.

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 Blackpool to Cardiff.

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 Blackpool to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Blackpool to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Blackpool to Cardiff run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 39m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $28 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 04:00, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 161 miles (260 km) distance in 6h 35m.

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
Distance
161 miles (260 km)
Average bus duration
7h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$28
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
6h 35m
First bus
4:00 AM
Last bus
11:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
70 days
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

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Blackpool to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Blackpool to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $28. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
8h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$28
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

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
6h 35m
Cheapest National Express Price
$42
National Express frequency
3 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 Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
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

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.

FAQs: Bus from Blackpool to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Blackpool to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Blackpool to Cardiff can start from as little as $28 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Blackpool to Cardiff is $47 ; 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 Blackpool to Cardiff is 6h 35m to travel the 161 miles (260 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 Blackpool to Cardiff leaves at 4:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Blackpool to Cardiff leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Blackpool to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Blackpool to Cardiff, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Blackpool and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Blackpool , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Blackpool, Central Coach Station, Lancaster, University, Preston, Bus Station . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), Cardiff, University, Newport, Queensway, Weston-super-Mare, Regent St (Interchange), Weston-super-Mare, Diamond Batch Car Park Stop (Worle Station) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Blackpool, Central Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cardiff from Blackpool is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Blackpool to Cardiff is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Blackpool and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Blackpool to Cardiff for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Blackpool to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cardiff are:
  • Cardiff Castle, a historic fortress with Roman and Norman roots offering guided tours and events
  • St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum showcasing Welsh life and culture through reconstructed buildings and exhibits
  • Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions
  • National Museum Cardiff, featuring art, archaeology, and natural history collections
  • Bute Park, a large green space perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The best things to do in Cardiff include:
  • Millennium Centre, a renowned arts venue hosting opera, ballet, and theater performances
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife in Cardiff's city center with its array of pubs and clubs
  • Take a boat tour around Cardiff Bay for scenic views and historical insights
  • Visit the Cardiff International White Water for an adventurous day of rafting and kayaking
  • Enjoy shopping and dining at the bustling Cardiff Market, offering local produce and unique finds.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Blackpool to Cardiff 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 Blackpool to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Blackpool to Cardiff:
  • 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 Blackpool to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Blackpool to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Blackpool to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Blackpool to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Blackpool to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Blackpool nor Cardiff 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Blackpool to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps 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 Blackpool to Cardiff

Most Blackpool to Cardiff buses use the Blackpool, Central Coach Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Use this guide to compare Blackpool and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Blackpool
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff

Which Blackpool station do buses to Cardiff leave from?

Buses from Blackpool to Cardiff leave from Blackpool, Central Coach Station. The station is from Blackpool city centre at Blackpool, Blackpool FY1 5QE, UK.
Blackpool, Central Coach StationBlackpool, Blackpool FY1 5QE, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Blackpool, Central Coach Station from Blackpool city centre

Bus6, 5, 7, 10, 5a, 5b · 8m · $6 · every ~35 min

Blackpool, Central Coach Station bus station facilities and services

Blackpool, Central Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Snack bar available in the waiting area.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Blackpool, Central Coach Station. ATMs are available at Blackpool, Central Coach Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Blackpool, Central Coach Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Blackpool, Central Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Blackpool, Central Coach Station: Wheelchair accessible with assistance options.

More options for your journey from Blackpool to Cardiff

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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