Cardiff to Chester bus with National Express

Thu, Nov 06
+ Add return
National Express
Transport for Wales
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
1,000+ travel companies
National Express
Transport for Wales
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Chester

Showing times and prices for Nov 06

Cheapest price

$24

Average price

$33

Fastest journey

5 h 55 m

Average duration

10 h 9 m

Buses per day

4

Distance

191 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Chester will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.

Fast buses

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

FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
05:15PM12h05
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
05:20AMChester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)
$241One-way
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
07:10AM11h30
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
06:40PMChester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)
$251One-way
1 transfer
National ExpressNX111 · NX551
05:10PM5h55
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
11:05PMChester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)
$391One-way
1 transfer
National ExpressNX216 · NX100 · NX423
06:05PM11h05
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
05:10AMChester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)
$441One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Chester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Chester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €13, and a train costs an average of €37.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

€25

Average price

Cheapest

€63

Average price

5h 7m

Average total duration

4h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 41m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Cardiff to Chester Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:10AM
Arrival Time
06:40PM
Duration
11h30
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
11:05PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$39
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:15PM
Arrival Time
05:20AM
Duration
12h05
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05PM
Arrival Time
05:10AM
Duration
11h05
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$44

Live departures

Cardiff to Chester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Chester buses for tomorrow, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 11:32 AM

ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus7:10 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
11h30
6:40 PM Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Chester 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.

Thu
Nov 06
Fri
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Chester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus
Buses from Cardiff to Chester run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 5h 55m.
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
118 miles (191 km)
Average bus duration
4h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
$16 (€13)
Buses per day
2
Fastest bus
5h 55m
First bus
00:30
Last bus
23:00
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, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to ChesterYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Chester with National Express, Transport for Wales for as low as $16 (€13). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 56m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

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 Duration
5h 55m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
National Express frequency
2 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.

FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Chester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Chester can start from as little as $38 (€31) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Chester is $56 (€46); 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 Cardiff to Chester is 8 h 15 min   to travel the 118 mile (191 km) long route, with around there is 1 bus per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Cardiff to Chester leaves at 1: 35PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Cardiff to Chester leaves at 6: 05PM.
There is 1 bus a day from Cardiff to Chester which require at least one change with National Express or Transport for Wales. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Take the Cardiff to Chester bus with National Express or Transport for Wales. However, it's always good to check out all possible bus companies for the trip between Cardiff and Chester as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
The cheapest month to travel from Cardiff to Chester by bus is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel to Chester from Cardiff including taking a train or bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Chester:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Chester for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chester are:
  • Chester Cathedral, a historic Gothic-style cathedral with stunning architecture and a rich history
  • Chester Roman Amphitheatre, the largest Roman amphitheater in Britain offering insights into ancient Roman life
  • Chester City Walls, a well-preserved medieval defensive structure providing panoramic views of the city
  • Eastgate Clock, an iconic clock set on a historic gateway, known as one of the most photographed clocks in England
  • The Rows, unique medieval two-tiered shopping galleries featuring a mix of independent shops and eateries.
The best things to do in Chester include:
  • Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos with a diverse range of animals and conservation programs
  • Grosvenor Museum, showcasing local history, art, and archaeology with engaging exhibits
  • River Dee, enjoy a scenic walk or a boat trip along this picturesque river
  • Storyhouse, a cultural hub offering theatre performances, a library, and a cinema
  • Cheshire Military Museum, exploring the military history of the Cheshire regiments with fascinating displays.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Chester depends on the bus company:
  • 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.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Cardiff to Chester, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cardiff to Chester.
    Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Chester:
    • 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 Cardiff to Chester:
    • National Express
      • 10€ per additional bag.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Chester.
    You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Chester with the following bus company: National Express
    Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Chester with the following bus company: National Express.
    Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Chester with the following bus company: National Express.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Cardiff to Chester

    Cardiff
    Chester
    The major bus station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip from Cardiff to Chester.
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    information
    Cardiff, Millennium Stadium
    information
    Cardiff, University
    information
    Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    information

    Most popular bus connections to Chester

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