- 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 and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
€38
Average price
€48
Fastest journey
12 h 15 m
Average duration
12 h 32 m
Buses per day
3
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 €48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €38.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Cardiff for Durham on Thu, Aug 06, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct buses cover the 382 km distance in an average of 12 h 32 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 12 h 15 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest buses will take 12 h 40 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.
3:45 PM12h40Cardiff4:25 AMDurham€381One-way0 transfers- 2:45 PM12h40Cardiff3:25 AMDurham€451One-way0 transfers
5:10 PM12h15Cardiff5:25 AMDurham€621One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 PM12h15Cardiff5:25 AMDurham€621One-way0 transfers
- 3:45 PM12h40Cardiff4:25 AMDurham€381One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 PM12h40Cardiff3:25 AMDurham€451One-way0 transfers
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 32m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €32 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 9h 50m.
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 32m |
Cheapest ticket price €32 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 9h 50m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
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
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 €44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:53PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 12h32 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 12h15 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 04:25AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €51 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Durham bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Durham buses for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:45 PM Cardiff | 12h40 | 3:25 AM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:45 PM Cardiff | 12h40 | 4:25 AM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Bus providers: National Express, Megabus from Cardiff to DurhamYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Durham with National Express, Megabus for as low as €32. 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
9h 50m
Cheapest Price
€32
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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest Price
€55
Megabus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
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).
Additional luggage
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.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
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 €32 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Durham is €51 ; 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 9h 50m 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.
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, Newport, Queensway . When arriving in Durham , you can end your journey in bus stations like Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, John Dobson Street, Sunderland, 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 Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
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.
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, Sophia Gardens to Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge 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, 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 Durham station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Durham most often arrive at Durham, Sutton Street / Bridge Street. Some services arrive at Newcastle upon Tyne, John Dobson Street, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Durham arrival station.
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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