- Must visit
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Derby’s leading museum with art, archaeology, and natural history, best known for its important Joseph Wright collection.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Derby
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$38
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$38
Fastest journey on Sep 05
10 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
10 h 10 m
Buses on Sep 05
1
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 $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 1 buses from Cardiff to Derby, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 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 10 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest buses will take 10 h 10 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.
1:40 AM10h10Cardiff11:50 AMDerby$381One-way0 transfers
- 1:40 AM10h10Cardiff11:50 AMDerby$381One-way0 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 an average ticket price of $22 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 17m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, while a train costs an average of $34.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$22 Average price Cheapest | $34 Average price | $67 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 23m Average total duration 4h 53m 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 |
 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 Derby is a bus with an average price of $22 (€18).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Derby:
A bus is $12 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Derby costing on average $34 (€27).
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 53m.
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. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $22 (€18) compared to roughly $67 (€54) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $45 (€36). The journey takes 4h 53m versus 3h 10m 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 Derby Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:40AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 02:20PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:53AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 8h57 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $30 |
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 11:40AM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:38PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 9h12 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
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 01:30PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:38PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 9h57 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 11:40PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $64 |
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, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 12:35AM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 02:40AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 03:30AM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Derby bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Derby buses for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:40 AM Cardiff | 10h05 | 8:45 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:40 AM Cardiff | 10h15 | 9:55 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 5 | |||||
| 1:40 AM Cardiff | 10h10 | 11:50 AM Derby | 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 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.
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sep 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
Buses from Cardiff to Derby run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) 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 0m.
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 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Buses per day 15 |
Fastest bus 7h 0m |
First bus 12:30 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 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 $19 (€15). 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 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
$20 (€16)
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.
Complete guide to Derby
Things to do in Derby
Discover the best of Derby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Derby trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill
Excellent museum of making in a restored silk mill, exploring Derby’s industrial innovation with interactive displays and river views.
- Recommended
Pickford's House Museum
Historic Georgian house with period rooms and changing displays, offering an intimate look at local life and Derby’s past residents.
- Must visit
Darley Park
Riverside public park with mature trees, gardens, and monuments, ideal for a gentle walk close to Derby’s museums and cathedral.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Compact historic quarter around the cathedral with cobbled lanes, galleries, and heritage buildings, full of local character.
- Recommended
Market Place
Main city-centre square framed by historic buildings, markets, and events; a practical starting point for exploring central Derby.
- Vegetarian
Derbyshire Apple Pudding
A classic Derbyshire pudding of stewed apples topped with a pastry crust. It is a long-standing regional dessert found in local homes and pubs.
- Vegetarian
Derby Sage Cheese Cob
Bread or rolls filled with melted Derby Sage cheese and onion. This simple local snack highlights the county's famous herb-flavoured cheese.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton
A crumbly blue-veined cheese made in Derbyshire. It is one of England's best-known regional cheeses and a staple on local cheeseboards.
Restaurant Zamanis
Refined modern British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting. One of Derby's best-known fine dining destinations.
The Dining Room
Stylish restaurant and wine bar serving British and European dishes. Popular for polished cooking and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
The Brunswick Inn
Historic pub in a former railway building, known for cask ales and classic pub meals. A strong choice for Derby beer culture.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.80
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Derby Bus Station -> Derby Railway Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Contactless card payment is widely accepted on Arriva buses in Derby. Ask the driver for the best fare if you are making more than one trip.
- Derby has no tram or metro network. Most local public transport journeys within the city are by bus.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Derby can start from as little as $19 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Derby is $22 (€18) ; 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 0m 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 15 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 0m 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
Most Cardiff to Derby buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Derby, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Derby 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 Derby
Which Cardiff station do buses to Derby leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Derby 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
Derby, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby, Bus Station from Derby city centre
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · $2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · $1 · every ~2 min
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Derby
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Derby and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Derby
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