- Must visit
John Taylor Bellfoundry Museum
Unique museum inside the historic bell foundry, telling the story of bellmaking and casting. A signature Loughborough attraction with working heritage nearby.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Loughborough
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 27
Cheapest price on Oct 27
$32
Average ticket price on Oct 27
$32
Fastest journey on Oct 27
8 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Oct 27
8 h 40 m
Buses on Oct 27
1
Distance
197 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Loughborough is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Loughborough will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
Fast buses
On Tue, Oct 27, we found 1 buses from Cardiff to Loughborough, including 1 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 27 the direct buses cover the 197 km distance in an average of 8 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 40 m .
On Tue, Oct 27 the slowest buses will take 8 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.
4:15 PM8h40Cardiff12:55 AMLoughborough$321One-way0 transfers
- 4:15 PM8h40Cardiff12:55 AMLoughborough$321One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Loughborough
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Loughborough run on average 7 times per day, taking around 7h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 122 miles (197 km) distance in 6h 28m.
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 122 miles (197 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 6h 28m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Loughborough trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Loughborough can start from as little as $27 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Loughborough is $60 (€51) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Cardiff to Loughborough leaves at 12:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Loughborough leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Cardiff to Loughborough which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Cardiff to Loughborough Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 06:05PM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Loughborough bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Loughborough buses for today, Monday, October 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 12:50 PM Cardiff | 7h40 | 8:30 PM Loughborough | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:15 PM Cardiff | 8h40 | 12:55 AM Loughborough | 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 Loughborough buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Loughborough.
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 Loughborough.
- 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 Loughborough.
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 Loughborough.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Cardiff to LoughboroughYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Loughborough with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $27 (€22). 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
7h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$27 (€22)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
6h 28m
Cheapest National Express Price
$36 (€30)
National Express frequency
5 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Loughborough
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Loughborough, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Loughborough. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Loughborough and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Loughborough for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Loughborough:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Loughborough 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Loughborough:
- 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 Loughborough:
- 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 Loughborough. 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 Loughborough with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Loughborough with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Loughborough with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Complete guide to Loughborough
Things to do in Loughborough
Discover the best of Loughborough — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Loughborough trip today.
- Recommended
Charnwood Museum
Museum in Queen’s Park with local history, archaeology, and the famous Carillon tower. Ideal for understanding the town’s heritage in one stop.
- Recommended
Martin Hall Exhibition Space
University arts venue presenting changing exhibitions, design, and contemporary culture. A strong choice for visitors interested in current creative work.
- Must visit
Queen's Park
The town’s best-known green space with formal gardens, play areas, and the Carillon tower. Ideal for a relaxing break near the centre.
- Recommended
Market Place
Historic shopping and civic area with market-town character, regular activity, and easy access to landmarks. A practical place to start exploring Loughborough.
- Recommended
Loughborough University Campus
Attractive university campus with open lawns, public art, and notable modern architecture. A pleasant walking area showing a different side of the town.
Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
A Leicestershire pork pie with seasoned pork and firm jelly in a hand-raised crust. Nearby Melton Mowbray made it famous and it is a classic regional snack.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton
Stilton made in the traditional Leicestershire style. This rich blue cheese is one of the East Midlands’ best-known foods and is widely served locally.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Red Leicester Cheese
A red, nutmeg-spiced Leicestershire cheese with a mild, creamy taste. It is a longstanding county speciality often eaten in sandwiches or on cheeseboards.
Caravelli
Contemporary Indian dining with refined presentation, regional specialities, and attentive service suited to a more upscale meal.
The Basin
Established Indian restaurant known for classic curries and tandoori dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting popular with locals.
Fernandez Grillhouse
Popular casual venue for burgers, wings, loaded fries, and craft beer with an energetic modern atmosphere.
British pound (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local transport are fairly typical for an English market town.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants. If not, 10-12.5% is polite for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafes is optional, usually small change.
myTrip
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
The Rushes, Loughborough -> Loughborough Town Centre, Loughborough
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Most Kinchbus services in Loughborough accept contactless card payment on board. Check the fare before boarding as some routes have different ticket types.
- The Rushes is a central bus stop area for local services. Use the operator app or website for live departures and service updates.
Plan your visit to Loughborough
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Loughborough.
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 Loughborough, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as the town center and during events. Common scams include overcharging by taxis without meters and unofficial ticket sellers near transport hubs. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and purchase tickets from official vendors to avoid fraud. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less busy areas.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Loughborough
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Loughborough 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 Loughborough, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Loughborough including taking a bus and train.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cardiff to Loughborough
Most Cardiff to Loughborough buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Loughborough, The Rushes station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Loughborough 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 Loughborough
Which Cardiff station do buses to Loughborough leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Loughborough 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 · $3 · 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 · $2 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Which Loughborough station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Loughborough arrive at Loughborough, The Rushes. Loughborough, The Rushes is 0 miles (1 km) from Loughborough city centre.
Loughborough, The RushesLoughborough (The Rushes), Loughborough LE11 5BE, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Loughborough, The Rushes from Loughborough city centre
Loughborough, The Rushes is 1 km from Loughborough city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus127 · 4m · $3 · every ~11 min
Sky · 7m · $3 · every ~15 min
Loughborough, The Rushes bus station facilities and services
Loughborough, The Rushes 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 Loughborough, The Rushes. ATMs are available at Loughborough, The Rushes.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Loughborough, The Rushes.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Loughborough, The Rushes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Loughborough, The Rushes: Basic accessibility features are available.
Bus stations for Cardiff to Loughborough
Check bus stations information for Cardiff and Loughborough, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
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 . When arriving in Loughborough , you can end your journey in bus stations like Loughborough, The Rushes .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Loughborough, The Rushes, located 1 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Loughborough
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Loughborough and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Loughborough
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