- Must visit
The Collection Museum
Award-winning archaeology museum with Roman finds, medieval objects, and the famous Lincolnshire limestone display. Essential for history fans.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Lincoln
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$44
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$53
Fastest journey on Sep 20
8 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
8 h 58 m
Buses on Sep 20
2
Distance
264 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Lincoln is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Lincoln will cost around $53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Lincoln without transferring at least once.
NX111 · NX1518:40 AM9h20Cardiff, Sophia Gardens6:00 PMLincoln, Rail Station Car Park$441One-way1 transfer- NX507 · NX45112:15 PM8h35Cardiff, Sophia Gardens8:50 PMLincoln, Rail Station Car Park$621One-way1 transfer
- NX507 · NX45112:15 PM8h35Cardiff, Sophia Gardens8:50 PMLincoln, Rail Station Car Park$621One-way1 transfer
- NX111 · NX1518:40 AM9h20Cardiff, Sophia Gardens6:00 PMLincoln, Rail Station Car Park$441One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Lincoln
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Lincoln among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $60 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 43m. 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 $60, while a train costs an average of $142.
Distance: 164 miles (264 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$60 Average price Cheapest | $142 Average price |
6h 59m Average total duration 6h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 4h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Lincoln is a bus with an average price of $60.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Lincoln:
A bus is $82 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Lincoln costing on average $142.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Lincoln is by train with an average journey time of 4h 13m.
Other travel options to Lincoln take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Lincoln including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Lincoln among Omio's users.
Cardiff to Lincoln Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $66 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Lincoln bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Lincoln buses for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX111 · NX151 | 8:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 9h20 | 6:00 PM Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park | 1 transfer | |
| NX507 · NX451 | 12:15 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 8h35 | 8:50 PM Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park | 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 Lincoln 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 20
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Why should you book Cardiff to Lincoln buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Lincoln.
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 Lincoln.
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 Lincoln.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Lincoln
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Lincoln run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $32 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:16, the last at 19:23. The fastest bus covers the 164 miles (264 km) distance in 5h 5m.
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 164 miles (264 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 5h 5m |
First bus 5:16 AM |
Last bus 7:23 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 LincolnYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Lincoln with National Express 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 National Express Duration
5h 5m
Cheapest National Express Price
$32
National Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Lincoln
Things to do in Lincoln
Discover the best of Lincoln — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lincoln trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lincolnshire Life
City museum covering Lincoln’s archaeology, Roman past, and local life. A strong introduction to the city’s long history.
- Recommended
Lincolnshire Museum of Army Life
Interactive military museum and memorial at Lincoln Castle. It explores the county regiment and wartime service with personal stories.
- Must visit
Steep Hill
Steep historic street lined with independent shops and old buildings. Climbing it connects the modern city with Lincoln’s cathedral quarter.
- Recommended
Castle Square
Historic square between cathedral and castle, often animated by visitors and events. Ideal for photographs and exploring the hilltop core.
- Recommended
Brayford Waterfront
Pleasant waterside route along the Witham with boats, cafés, and views. A popular modern leisure area for an easy city walk.
Lincolnshire Sausage
A Lincolnshire specialty sausage seasoned with sage and coarse-cut pork. It is one of the county's best-known traditional foods and a staple in local breakfasts.
Pork Pie
A baked pork pie linked to Lincolnshire butchers, with seasoned pork and hot-water crust pastry. It is a classic cold savoury found in local shops and markets.
- Vegetarian
Lincolnshire Plum Bread
A traditional English plum loaf closely associated with Lincolnshire. This rich fruit bread is lightly spiced and often served sliced with butter.
Ole Ole Tapas Bar & Restaurant
Well-regarded modern British restaurant near the cathedral, serving seasonal dishes in a relaxed, stylish setting popular with locals and visitors.
The Jews House Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant in the Bailgate area known for polished tasting menus, seasonal British produce, and an intimate special-occasion atmosphere.
The Strugglers Inn
Traditional Lincoln pub noted for cask beers and hearty food. It is a dependable stop for local ale and a classic pub atmosphere.
British pound sterling (£)
Lincoln is Moderate for UK city breaks, with mid-range hotels, affordable pubs and cafes, and low local transport costs compared with larger tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Small change is fine in cafes.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Lincoln Rail Station Car Park -> Lincoln High Street, Lincoln
- Distance
- 500 m
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Most local buses accept contactless card payment as well as cash, but exact fares and ticket types depend on the operator.
- Lincoln city centre is walkable from the rail station, so walking can be quicker than waiting for a short bus trip.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Lincoln
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Lincoln 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 Lincoln, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Lincoln can start from as little as $32 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Lincoln is $60 ; 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 Lincoln is 5h 5m to travel the 164 miles (264 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 Lincoln leaves at 5:16 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Lincoln leaves at 7:23 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Cardiff to Lincoln 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 Lincoln, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Lincoln. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Lincoln 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, University . When arriving in Lincoln , you can end your journey in bus stations like Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park .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 Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Lincoln from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Lincoln is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Lincoln including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Lincoln:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Lincoln for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Lincoln are:
- Lincoln Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the tallest buildings in the world for centuries
- Lincoln Castle, a historic site housing one of the original copies of the Magna Carta and offering panoramic views of the city
- Steep Hill, a charming cobbled street lined with independent shops and cafes, connecting the historic and modern parts of the city
- The Collection, a museum and art gallery showcasing archaeology and fine art from the region
- Lincoln Arboretum, a beautiful Victorian park with gardens, lakes, and wildlife.
The best things to do in Lincoln include:
- Explore the vibrant Brayford Waterfront with its array of restaurants and bars overlooking the marina
- Take a guided tour of the historic Lincoln Castle and enjoy the panoramic views from its walls
- Wander through the charming shops and cafes on Steep Hill
- Visit the Usher Gallery, which features a collection of fine and decorative arts
- Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic in the scenic Lincoln Arboretum.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Lincoln 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 Lincoln.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Lincoln:
- 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 Lincoln:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Lincoln.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Lincoln with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Lincoln with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Lincoln with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use licensed transportation and be vigilant in crowded areas, especially near popular attractions, to avoid theft or fraudulent activities.
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 Lincoln
Most Cardiff to Lincoln buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Lincoln 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 Lincoln
Which Cardiff station do buses to Lincoln leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Lincoln 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, 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 Lincoln station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Lincoln arrive at Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park. Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park is from Lincoln city centre.
Lincoln, Rail Station Car ParkLincoln, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park from Lincoln city centre
TRUE
Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park bus station facilities and services
Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park 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 Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park. ATMs are available at Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lincoln, Rail Station Car Park: Wheelchair accessible with assistance available.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Lincoln
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Lincoln and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Lincoln
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