- Must visit
National Waterways Museum Gloucester
National museum of inland waterway life with historic boats, canal stories, and interactive displays in a dockside warehouse.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Gloucester
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$17
Fastest journey
2 h 35 m
Average duration
3 h
Buses per day
2
Distance
78 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Gloucester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Gloucester will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Cardiff for Gloucester on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 78 km distance in an average of 3 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 3 h 25 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.
FlixBus4:00 PM2h35Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)6:35 PMGloucester, Transport Hub$111One-way0 transfers
NX202 · NX1004:30 AM3h25Cardiff, Sophia Gardens7:55 AMGloucester, Transport Hub$241One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus4:00 PM2h35Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)6:35 PMGloucester, Transport Hub$111One-way0 transfers
- NX202 · NX1004:30 AM3h25Cardiff, Sophia Gardens7:55 AMGloucester, Transport Hub$241One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Gloucester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Gloucester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $8.
Distance: 48 miles (78 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$16 Average price Cheapest | $17 Average price | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 0m Average total duration 1h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 38m Average total duration Fastest 1h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Gloucester is a bus with an average price of $16.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Gloucester:
A bus is $1 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Gloucester costing on average $17.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Gloucester is by train with an average journey time of 1h 8m.
Other travel options to Gloucester take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Gloucester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Gloucester 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 $16 compared to roughly $22 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $6. The journey takes 1h 30m versus 1h 20m 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.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus.
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 Gloucester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $7 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $20 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Gloucester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Gloucester buses for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX202 · NX100 | 4:30 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 3h25 | 7:55 AM Gloucester, Transport Hub | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 4:00 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 2h35 | 6:35 PM Gloucester, Transport Hub | 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 Gloucester 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
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Aug 11
Why should you book Cardiff to Gloucester buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cardiff to Gloucester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Gloucester.
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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Gloucester.
- 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 Gloucester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Gloucester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Gloucester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Gloucester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Gloucester run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $7 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:45, the last at 23:34. The fastest bus covers the 48 miles (78 km) distance in 2h 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 48 miles (78 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 2h 35m |
First bus 2:45 AM |
Last bus 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 2 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 GloucesterYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Gloucester with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $7. 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 Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$7
FlixBus frequency
1 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 Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
$19
National Express frequency
3 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 Gloucester
Things to do in Gloucester
Discover the best of Gloucester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gloucester trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Gloucester
Main city museum covering Gloucester’s Roman origins, local history, and art collections. A strong starting point for understanding the city.
- Recommended
Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
Dockside venue exploring soldiers’ stories through exhibitions in a dramatic historic setting. Known for changing military-themed displays.
- Must visit
Gloucester Docks Area
Atmospheric dockside district with restored warehouses, outlet shopping, waterside paths, and strong industrial character.
- Recommended
Gloucester Park
Large central park with lakes, play areas, open lawns, and seasonal events. Popular for relaxing walks near the city centre.
- Recommended
Westgate Street
Historic shopping street linking key central sights, lined with notable buildings and useful for exploring Gloucester on foot.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Double Gloucester Cheese
Double Gloucester cheese is a rich, firm cow's milk cheese from Gloucestershire, long tied to local dairies and famously used in the county's cheese-rolling tradition.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Single Gloucester Cheese
Single Gloucester is a milder, more crumbly traditional cheese from the county, protected for local production and valued as a classic regional table cheese.
- Gluten-free
Gloucester Old Spot Pork
Gloucester Old Spot pork highlights meat from the county's famous heritage pig breed, prized for succulent, well-marbled pork in roasts and sausages.
Sebz
Stylish dockside restaurant at Gloucester Docks known for steaks, British classics, and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting.
New Inn
Historic city centre pub serving cask ales and hearty British food in a traditional timber-framed setting popular with locals and visitors.
Dr Foster's
Well-regarded waterside restaurant at Gloucester Docks with modern British dishes, cocktails, and a lively contemporary atmosphere.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are mid-priced, buses are reasonable, and attractions are generally cheaper than in London or Bath.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tips are small and not expected.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Gloucester Transport Hub -> The Cross, Gloucester
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 11 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on Stagecoach buses in Gloucester; tap the reader when you board.
- Gloucester city buses use capped fares on many routes, so ask the driver for the best-value day ticket if making several trips.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Gloucester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Gloucester 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 Gloucester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Gloucester can start from as little as $7 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Gloucester is $16 ; 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 Gloucester is 2h 35m to travel the 48 miles (78 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 Gloucester leaves at 2:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Gloucester leaves at 11:34 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Cardiff to Gloucester which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Gloucester, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Gloucester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Gloucester 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 Gloucester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Gloucester, Transport Hub, Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub .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 Gloucester, Transport Hub, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Gloucester from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Gloucester is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Gloucester including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Gloucester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Gloucester for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Gloucester 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.
- FlixBus
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Gloucester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Gloucester:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Gloucester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cardiff to Gloucester. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Gloucester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Gloucester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Gloucester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Cardiff nor Gloucester 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 Gloucester 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 Gloucester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Historic Docks and during events. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed transportation to avoid scams. Additionally, watch out for overcharging in some local shops and eateries near tourist spots. Staying alert and securing personal belongings 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 Gloucester
Most Cardiff to Gloucester buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Gloucester, Transport Hub station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Gloucester 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 Gloucester
Which Cardiff station do buses to Gloucester leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Gloucester 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 Gloucester station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Gloucester most often arrive at Gloucester, Transport Hub. Some services arrive at Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Gloucester arrival station.
Gloucester, Transport HubTransport Hub arrival, Gloucester GL1 1SZ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Gloucester, Transport Hub from Gloucester city centre
TRUE
Gloucester, Transport Hub bus station facilities and services
Gloucester, Transport Hub has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in main waiting area. ATMs are aTM located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gloucester, Transport Hub.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gloucester, Transport Hub: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gloucester, Transport Hub: Wheelchair accessible ramps available.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Gloucester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Gloucester and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Gloucester
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