Cardiff to Derby bus with National Express

Fri, Jun 05
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National Express
FlixBus
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2,000+ travel companies
National Express
FlixBus
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Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Derby

Showing times and prices for Jun 05

Cheapest price

$40

Average price

$42

Fastest journey

10 h 5 m

Average duration

10 h 10 m

Buses per day

2

Distance

198 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Derby will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast buses

Of the 2 buses that leave Cardiff for Derby on Fri, Jun 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 05 the direct buses cover the 198 km distance in an average of 10 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 5 m .

On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest buses will take 10 h 15 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.

  • FlixBus
    10:40 AM10h05
    Cardiff
    8:45 PMDerby
    $401One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    11:40 AM10h15
    Cardiff
    9:55 PMDerby
    $441One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Derby

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Derby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 47m. 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 $22, and a train costs an average of $50.

Distance: 123 miles (198 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$34

Average price

Cheapest

$90

Average price

$67

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 49m

Average total duration

4h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 17m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 10m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

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 Derby is a bus with an average price of $34 (€28).

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

A bus is $56 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Derby costing on average $90 (€73).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Derby is by train with an average journey time of 2h 47m.

Other travel options to Derby take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 19m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Derby including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Derby among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Cardiff to Derby Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:40AM
Arrival Time
11:50AM
Duration
10h10
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:15AM
Arrival Time
12:30PM
Duration
9h15
Departure days
Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:20AM
Arrival Time
02:40PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:40AM
Arrival Time
08:45PM
Duration
10h05
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:40AM
Arrival Time
09:55PM
Duration
10h15
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$44
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:50PM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
7h45
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:05PM
Arrival Time
12:05AM
Duration
11h00
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:40PM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
6h55
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
11:25PM
Duration
8h40
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:50PM
Arrival Time
12:40AM
Duration
9h50
Departure days
Mon, Thu
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:45PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
8h40
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:10PM
Arrival Time
03:30AM
Duration
9h20
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$34

Live departures

Cardiff to Derby bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Derby buses for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBus2:50 PM Cardiff
9h50
12:40 AM Derby0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Derby 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.

Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11

Why should you book Cardiff to Derby buses with Omio?

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

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 Derby.

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 Derby.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Derby

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cardiff to Derby run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 123 miles (198 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
123 miles (198 km)
Average bus duration
4h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Buses per day
14
Fastest bus
7h 45m
First bus
12:30 AM
Last bus
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
14 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 DerbyYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Derby with National Express for as low as $22 (€18). 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 Duration
7h 45m
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.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.

FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Derby

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Derby can start from as little as $22 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Derby is $34 (€28) ; 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 Derby is 7h 45m to travel the 123 miles (198 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 Derby leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Derby leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 14 buses a day from Cardiff to Derby 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 Derby, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Derby. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Derby and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Derby 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 Derby is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Derby including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Derby:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Derby for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Derby 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 Derby.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Derby:
  • 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 Derby:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Derby.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Derby with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Derby with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Derby with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Derby 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 Cardiff to Derby 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 Derby, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and counterfeit tickets for events or attractions. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, purchase tickets from official vendors, and stay vigilant in crowded places to ensure safety.
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 Derby

Cardiff
Derby
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 Derby.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Cardiff, University
information

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