- Must visit
Hopetown Darlington
Major railway museum on the original Stockton and Darlington Railway route. Exhibits, locomotives, and restored buildings explain Darlington's rail legacy.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Darlington
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$79
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$79
Fastest journey on Sep 19
9 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
9 h 25 m
Buses on Sep 19
1
Distance
356 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Darlington is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Darlington will cost around $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 buses from Cardiff to Darlington, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct buses cover the 356 km distance in an average of 9 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 25 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest buses will take 9 h 25 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:50 AM9h25Cardiff6:15 PMDarlington$791One-way0 transfers
- 8:50 AM9h25Cardiff6:15 PMDarlington$791One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Darlington
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Darlington among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $64 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 31m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $64, while a train costs an average of $130.
Distance: 221 miles (356 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$64 Average price Cheapest | $130 Average price | $100 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 52m Average total duration 9h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 31m Average total duration Fastest 5h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg 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 Cardiff to Darlington is a bus with an average price of $64.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Darlington:
A bus is $66 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Darlington costing on average $130.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Darlington is by train with an average journey time of 5h 1m.
Other travel options to Darlington take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Darlington including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Darlington 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 $64 compared to roughly $100 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $36. The journey takes 9h 22m versus 5h 2m 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.
Cardiff to Darlington Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20AM | Arrival Time 01:55PM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 11h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 12h10 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 10h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 10h25 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $86 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Darlington bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Darlington buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:50 AM Cardiff | 9h25 | 6:15 PM Darlington | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Darlington 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Why should you book Cardiff to Darlington buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Darlington.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Darlington.
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 Cardiff to Darlington.
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 Cardiff to Darlington.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Darlington
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Darlington run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $44 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 221 miles (356 km) distance in 7h 45m.
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 221 miles (356 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 7h 45m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 6 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 from Cardiff to DarlingtonYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Darlington with National Express for as low as $44. 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
7h 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
$44
National Express frequency
4 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 Darlington
Things to do in Darlington
Discover the best of Darlington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Darlington trip today.
- Recommended
MIMA School of Art Gallery
University arts venue nearby with contemporary exhibitions, installations, and events. A good choice for modern art in the wider Darlington area.
- Recommended
Piercebridge Roman Fort Museum
Roman fort and archaeology museum a short trip from Darlington. Finds, reconstructions, and river views make it a strong regional heritage visit.
- Recommended
High Row
Historic town centre street lined with shops and civic buildings. It is central to exploring Darlington's market character and Victorian urban fabric.
- Recommended
Market Place
Traditional covered market area with surrounding lanes and street life. It is ideal for soaking up local atmosphere in a compact historic setting.
- Recommended
South Park
Large town park with formal gardens, a café building, aviary area, and bandstand. It is one of Darlington's best-loved green spaces for a stroll.
Parmo
A Teesside takeaway classic: chicken in a creamy béchamel-style sauce with chips. It is strongly associated with nearby Middlesbrough and the wider area.
Pan Haggerty Broth
A rich North East beef and vegetable broth, slowly cooked with pearl barley or split peas. It is a traditional working-class staple in County Durham homes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pan Haggerty
Layered potatoes, onions and cheese baked until golden. A beloved North East comfort dish, often served in pubs and homes across Durham and Teesside.
The Old Yard Tapas Bar
Well-known traditional pub venue serving cask ales and hearty British favourites in a historic, characterful atmosphere.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill
Established town-centre restaurant known for polished British and European cooking in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Akbar The Great
Popular Indian restaurant with a strong local reputation for classic curries, attentive service and a comfortable modern dining room.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and trains are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis; cafes usually do not expect tips.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre) -> Darlington Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.6 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Most local buses accept contactless card and mobile payments; the £2 single fare cap is commonly available on participating services.
- Darlington town centre is walkable from Feethams and nearby bus stops; check live departures in the Arriva UK Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Darlington
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Darlington 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 Darlington, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Darlington can start from as little as $44 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Darlington is $64 ; 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 Darlington is 7h 45m to travel the 221 miles (356 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 Cardiff to Darlington leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Darlington leaves at 11:00 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Cardiff to Darlington which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Darlington, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Darlington. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Darlington and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cardiff , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, University . When arriving in Darlington , you can end your journey in bus stations like Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre), Middlesbrough, Bus Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Darlington from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Darlington is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Darlington including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Darlington for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Darlington:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Darlington 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 Cardiff to Darlington.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Darlington:
- 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 Darlington:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Darlington.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Darlington with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Darlington with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Darlington with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Darlington 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 Cardiff to Darlington 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 Darlington, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and train stations. Be wary of unofficial taxi services to avoid overcharging. It's also advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Always use licensed transportation and stay informed about local safety updates.
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 Cardiff to Darlington
Most Cardiff to Darlington buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre) station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Darlington bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cardiff
Arrival bus stations in Darlington
Which Cardiff station do buses to Darlington leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Darlington leave from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre
TRUE
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Cardiff, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, University from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Which Darlington station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Darlington most often arrive at Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre). Some services arrive at Middlesbrough, Bus Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Darlington arrival station.
Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre)Darlington Feethams Dolphin Centre, Darlington DL1 5PT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre) from Darlington city centre
Bus6B, 6 · 5m · $5 · every ~6 min
Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre) bus station facilities and services
Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants available nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Available at the station. ATMs are available within walking distance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre): Wheelchair accessible.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Darlington
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Darlington and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Darlington
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