- Must visit
Oriental Museum
World-class Oriental collections spanning China, Japan, Korea, Egypt, and South Asia in Durham University’s museum.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Durham
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$54
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$74
Fastest journey on Sep 20
9 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
10 h 31 m
Buses on Sep 20
5
Distance
382 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Durham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Durham will cost around $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.
Fast buses
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 5 buses from Cardiff to Durham, including 5 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct buses cover the 382 km distance in an average of 10 h 31 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 50 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest buses will take 11 h 5 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.
7:45 AM11h05Cardiff6:50 PMDurham$541One-way0 transfers
5:40 PM10h45Cardiff4:25 AMDurham$621One-way0 transfers- 5:30 PM10h55Cardiff4:25 AMDurham$821One-way0 transfers
- 9:50 AM10h00Cardiff7:50 PMDurham$831One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM9h50Cardiff6:50 PMDurham$861One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM9h50Cardiff6:50 PMDurham$861One-way0 transfers
- 9:50 AM10h00Cardiff7:50 PMDurham$831One-way0 transfers
- 5:40 PM10h45Cardiff4:25 AMDurham$621One-way0 transfers
- 5:30 PM10h55Cardiff4:25 AMDurham$821One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 AM11h05Cardiff6:50 PMDurham$541One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Durham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Durham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $62 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 49m. 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 $62, while a train costs an average of $192.
Distance: 237 miles (382 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$62 Average price Cheapest | $192 Average price |
10h 16m Average total duration 9h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration Fastest 5h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
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 Durham is a bus with an average price of $62.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Durham:
A bus is $131 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Durham costing on average $192.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Durham is by train with an average journey time of 5h 19m.
Other travel options to Durham take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Durham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Durham among Omio's users.
Cardiff to Durham Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $86 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:53PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 12h32 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 12h15 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Durham bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Durham buses for today, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:30 PM Cardiff | 10h55 | 3:25 AM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:30 PM Cardiff | 10h55 | 4:25 AM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
| 7:45 AM Cardiff | 11h05 | 6:50 PM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Cardiff | 9h50 | 6:50 PM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:50 AM Cardiff | 10h00 | 7:50 PM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Durham 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Cardiff to Durham buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Cardiff to Durham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Durham.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Durham.
- 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 Durham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Durham.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Durham.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Durham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Durham run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $38 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 237 miles (382 km) distance in 8h 20m.
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 237 miles (382 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 8h 20m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 42 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, FlixBus from Cardiff to DurhamYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Durham with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $38. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
9h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$38
FlixBus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
8h 20m
Cheapest National Express Price
$38
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 Durham
Things to do in Durham
Discover the best of Durham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Durham trip today.
- Recommended
Durham Museum and Heritage Centre
Award-winning museum on Durham’s heritage, archaeology, and local stories, housed in a former medieval church.
- Recommended
Open Treasure
Museum inside Durham Cathedral exploring monastic treasures, manuscripts, and the site’s long religious history.
- Must visit
River Wear Walk
Leafy riverside walk encircling the peninsula, famous for classic cathedral views and one of Durham’s best strolls.
- Must visit
Palace Green
Historic green beside cathedral and castle, central to the UNESCO site and ideal for architecture and atmosphere.
- Recommended
Silver Street
Cobbled street lined with old buildings, independent shops, and one of Durham’s most characterful city-centre walks.
- Vegetarian
Sunderland Cake
A spiced fruit loaf from nearby Sunderland, traditionally sliced and spread with butter. It is a classic North East tea-time treat with strong regional roots.
- Gluten-free
Pease Pudding
A rich savoury broth from the North East made with pulses, vegetables and usually ham or bacon. Long linked with working-class cooking and local comfort food.
Panackelty Pie
A hearty minced beef and onion pie under a pastry lid, strongly associated with North East football and pub food traditions.
The Bishop's Dining Room
Refined British fine dining by Tommy Banks in a historic setting. Known for seasonal tasting menus, polished service and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Bistro Citron Vert
A long-established riverside restaurant serving classic French dishes in a formal, traditional dining room. Well regarded for consistency and old-school charm.
Flat White Kitchen
Popular independent spot for brunch, coffee and casual meals. Relaxed modern atmosphere with strong local reputation for quality ingredients and baking.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals are fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafes usually just small change.
Go North East
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Sutton Street / Bridge Street -> Durham Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on most local buses, including Go North East and Arriva services.
- Durham is compact; many central trips are walkable, but buses are useful for the station, university sites, and park-and-ride routes.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Durham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Durham 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 Durham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Durham can start from as little as $38 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Durham is $62 ; 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 Durham is 8h 20m to travel the 237 miles (382 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 Durham leaves at 12:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Durham leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Cardiff to Durham which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Durham, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Durham. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Durham and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Durham from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Durham is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Durham including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Durham for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Durham:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Durham depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- 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 Durham.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Durham:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- 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 Durham:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Durham.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Durham with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Durham with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Durham with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Cardiff nor Durham 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 Durham 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 Durham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unauthorized street vendors. Staying alert in nightlife districts and using licensed transportation services can help 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 Durham
Most Cardiff to Durham buses use the Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) to Newcastle upon Tyne, John Dobson Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Durham 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 Durham
Which Cardiff station do buses to Durham leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Durham leave from Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). The station is from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK.
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, 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, 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
Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge StreetDurham, NC, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street from Durham city centre
TRUE
Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street bus station facilities and services
Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street 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 Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street. ATMs are available at Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street: Accessible via ramps and flat surfaces.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Durham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Durham and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Durham
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