- Must visit
Brodsworth Hall and Gardens
Historic country house with restored rooms, gardens, and stories of coal-mining philanthropy. A leading heritage attraction just outside central Doncaster.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Doncaster
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$33
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$33
Fastest journey on Sep 05
9 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
10 h 15 m
Buses on Sep 05
2
Distance
266 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Doncaster without transferring at least once.
NX111 · NX1528:40 AM9h05Cardiff, Sophia Gardens5:45 PMDoncaster, Trafford Way$331One-way1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus6:10 PM11h25Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)5:35 AMDoncaster, Trafford Way$341One-way1 transfer
- NX111 · NX1528:40 AM9h05Cardiff, Sophia Gardens5:45 PMDoncaster, Trafford Way$331One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:10 PM11h25Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)5:35 AMDoncaster, Trafford Way$341One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Doncaster
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Doncaster among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $33 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 39m. 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 $33, while a train costs an average of $90.
Distance: 165 miles (266 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$33 Average price Cheapest | $90 Average price | $74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 8m Average total duration 5h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 39m Average total duration Fastest 4h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.7kg 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 Doncaster is a bus with an average price of $33 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Doncaster:
A bus is $57 (€46) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Doncaster costing on average $90 (€73).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Doncaster is by train with an average journey time of 4h 9m.
Other travel options to Doncaster take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Doncaster including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 $33 (€26) compared to roughly $74 (€59) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $41 (€33). The journey takes 5h 38m versus 3h 52m 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 Doncaster Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 04:35AM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:08PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 8h52 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Doncaster bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Doncaster 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX111 · NX152 | 8:30 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 9h25 | 5:55 PM Doncaster, Trafford Way | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:10 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 11h25 | 5:35 AM Doncaster, Trafford Way | 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 Doncaster by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
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Sep 05
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Why should you book Cardiff to Doncaster buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Doncaster.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Doncaster
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Doncaster run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€13) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 20:20. The fastest bus covers the 165 miles (266 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 165 miles (266 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€13) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 6h 35m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 8:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 DoncasterYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Doncaster with National Express for as low as $17 (€13). 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
6h 35m
Cheapest National Express Price
$31 (€25)
National Express frequency
1 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 Doncaster
Things to do in Doncaster
Discover the best of Doncaster — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Doncaster trip today.
- Recommended
South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum
Major aviation museum on the former RAF Doncaster site with wartime aircraft, exhibits, and family activities. One of the town's best-known visitor attractions.
- Recommended
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum
Large railway museum by Doncaster station with locomotives, simulators, and engineering stories. Ideal for understanding the town's rail heritage.
- Recommended
Sir Nigel Gresley Square
Central civic square beside the markets and theatre. A practical starting point for exploring shops, events, heritage buildings, and everyday town life.
- Recommended
Town Field
Popular park with open lawns, a lake, sports facilities, and event space. A long-time local favourite close to the racecourse and town centre.
- Recommended
Cusworth Hall Park
Large heritage parkland around a historic house, with lakes, woodland, and walking trails. Excellent for scenery, wildlife, and relaxed outdoor time.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding is a classic baked batter served with roast meat and gravy. It is a staple across Yorkshire and strongly tied to Sunday roasts in Doncaster.
Yorkshire Roast Beef Dinner
Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and gravy is a traditional Yorkshire Sunday lunch widely eaten in Doncaster pubs and homes.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Parkin
Parkin is a sticky ginger cake made with oats, treacle and syrup. It is a beloved Yorkshire treat, especially around autumn and Bonfire Night.
The Wool Market
Stylish modern British restaurant in the city centre, known for polished small plates, steaks and cocktails in a smart but relaxed setting.
Doncaster Market
Popular historic market food hall with varied traders, casual seating and a lively local atmosphere. Good for tasting several local favourites.
The Cumberland
Well-regarded traditional pub near the racecourse area, serving hearty British meals, ales and a comfortable setting suited to a classic roast.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels, dining, and local transport are usually cheaper than London and many major UK tourist cities.
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
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.30
To the city center
Trafford Way -> Doncaster Frenchgate Interchange
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 11 min
- Most local buses in Doncaster accept contactless card and mobile payments; tap on board and ask the driver if you need the cheapest valid ticket.
- For town centre connections, use Doncaster Frenchgate Interchange beside the rail station; it is the main hub for local and regional buses.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Doncaster
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 Doncaster, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Doncaster can start from as little as $17 (€13) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Doncaster is $33 (€26) ; 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 Doncaster is 6h 35m to travel the 165 miles (266 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 Doncaster leaves at 12:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Doncaster leaves at 8:20 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 Doncaster, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Doncaster. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Doncaster 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), Newport, Queensway, Cardiff, University . When arriving in Doncaster , you can end your journey in bus stations like Doncaster, Trafford Way, Sheffield, Meadowhall Interchange, Sheffield, Pond Street / Harmer Lane (Sheffield Interchange) .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 Doncaster, Trafford Way, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Doncaster from Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Doncaster is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Doncaster including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Doncaster:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Doncaster for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Doncaster are:
- Conisbrough Castle, a well-preserved medieval castle with a circular keep offering panoramic views
- Yorkshire Wildlife Park, a wildlife park home to a variety of exotic animals and conservation projects
- Doncaster Racecourse, a historic horse racing venue hosting major events like the St. Leger Stakes
- Cusworth Hall, an 18th-century country house with a museum and landscaped gardens
- South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, featuring a collection of aircraft and aviation memorabilia.
The best things to do in Doncaster include:
- Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, a well-preserved Victorian country house with stunning gardens to explore
- Potteric Carr Nature Reserve, a large nature reserve offering walking trails and birdwatching opportunities
- The Dome, a leisure complex with swimming pools, ice skating, and fitness facilities
- Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing local history and art exhibitions
- Boston Park Farm, a family-friendly farm with animals and a maize maze.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 Doncaster.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster:
- 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 Doncaster:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Doncaster.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Doncaster with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Doncaster with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Doncaster with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Doncaster 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 Doncaster 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 Doncaster, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who are not licensed and counterfeit ticket sales for local events or transportation. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using official services 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 Cardiff to Doncaster
Most Cardiff to Doncaster buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Doncaster, Trafford Way station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Doncaster 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 Doncaster
Which Cardiff station do buses to Doncaster leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 Doncaster station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Doncaster most often arrive at Doncaster, Trafford Way. Some services arrive at Sheffield, Meadowhall Interchange, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Doncaster arrival station.
Doncaster, Trafford WayDoncaster, Station Court, Doncaster DN1 1PE, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Doncaster, Trafford Way from Doncaster city centre
TRUE
Doncaster, Trafford Way bus station facilities and services
Doncaster, Trafford Way 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 Doncaster, Trafford Way. ATMs are available at Doncaster, Trafford Way.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Doncaster, Trafford Way.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Doncaster, Trafford Way: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Doncaster, Trafford Way: Wheelchair accessible pathways.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Doncaster
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Doncaster and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Doncaster
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