Cardiff to Northampton bus with National Express

Fri, Jul 31
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Northampton

Showing times and prices for Jul 31

Cheapest price

$18

Average price

$32

Fastest journey

6 h 10 m

Average duration

6 h 46 m

Buses per day

7

Distance

179 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Northampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Northampton will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.

Fast buses

Of the 7 buses that leave Cardiff for Northampton on Fri, Jul 31, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 179 km distance in an average of 6 h 46 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 10 m .

On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 7 h 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.

  • FlixBus
    5:00 AM7h00
    Cardiff
    12:00 PMNorthampton
    $181One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    9:40 AM7h20
    Cardiff
    5:00 PMNorthampton
    $281One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    10:40 AM7h00
    Cardiff
    5:40 PMNorthampton
    $301One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    4:00 AM7h00
    Cardiff
    11:00 AMNorthampton
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    5:45 AM6h40
    Cardiff
    12:25 PMNorthampton
    $341One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Northampton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Northampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $37.

Distance: 111 miles (179 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$30

Average price

Cheapest

$75

Average price

$50

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 4m

Average total duration

5h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Northampton is a bus with an average price of $30.

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Northampton:

A bus is $45 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Northampton costing on average $75.

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Northampton is by train with an average journey time of 3h 21m.

Other travel options to Northampton take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Northampton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Northampton among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Cardiff to Northampton Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:10AM
Arrival Time
09:20AM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:00AM
Arrival Time
11:00AM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:40AM
Arrival Time
11:00AM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:00AM
Arrival Time
12:00PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:45AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:45AM
Arrival Time
12:40PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:40AM
Arrival Time
02:45PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$35
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:45AM
Arrival Time
01:25PM
Duration
5h40
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:40AM
Arrival Time
04:05PM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$45
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:40AM
Arrival Time
05:00PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:45AM
Arrival Time
03:45PM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:40AM
Arrival Time
05:40PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
8h05
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:45AM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
06:20PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:40PM
Arrival Time
07:50PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:50PM
Arrival Time
09:55PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:40PM
Arrival Time
10:55PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:40PM
Arrival Time
11:55PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Tue, Sat
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
12:30AM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:25PM
Arrival Time
12:20AM
Duration
6h55
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:40PM
Arrival Time
01:30AM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$61
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:45PM
Arrival Time
01:55AM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:25PM
Arrival Time
09:15AM
Duration
9h50
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$26

Live departures

Cardiff to Northampton bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Northampton buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBus9:40 AM Cardiff
7h20
5:00 PM Northampton0 transfersDirect
FlixBus11:25 PM Cardiff
9h50
9:15 AM Northampton0 transfersDirect
Friday, July 31
FlixBus4:00 AM Cardiff
7h00
11:00 AM Northampton0 transfersDirect
FlixBus5:00 AM Cardiff
7h00
12:00 PM Northampton0 transfersDirect
FlixBus5:45 AM Cardiff
6h40
12:25 PM Northampton0 transfersDirect
FlixBus7:40 AM Cardiff
7h05
2:45 PM Northampton0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Northampton 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.

Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06

Why should you book Cardiff to Northampton buses with Omio?

National Express as well as Megabus or FlixBus offer buses services from Cardiff to Northampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Northampton.

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 or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Northampton.
  • 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 Northampton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Northampton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Northampton.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Northampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cardiff to Northampton run on average 15 times per day, taking around 5h 34m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 111 miles (179 km) distance in 5h 15m.

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
111 miles (179 km)
Average bus duration
5h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
$18
Buses per day
15
Fastest bus
5h 15m
First bus
1:40 AM
Last bus
11:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
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, Megabus, FlixBus from Cardiff to NorthamptonYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Northampton with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for as low as $18. 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
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$18
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
6h 10m
Cheapest Price
$47
National Express frequency
7 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
7h 0m
Cheapest Price
$34
Megabus frequency
4 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 Northampton

Things to do in Northampton

Discover the best of Northampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Northampton trip today.

  • Must visit

Northampton Museum and Art Gallery

The town's main museum, celebrated for its shoe collections, local history, and changing exhibitions in a restored central building.

  • Must visit

78 Derngate

Specialist display areas and interpretation at the historic 78 Derngate house, illuminating Charles Rennie Mackintosh's interior design legacy.

  • Recommended

Abington Park Museum

Historic country house museum in extensive parkland. Displays reveal aristocratic life, the Civil War, and the estate's wider landscape.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple 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, and small change is fine in cafes.

FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Northampton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Northampton 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 Northampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Northampton can start from as little as $18 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Northampton is $30 ; 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 Northampton is 5h 15m to travel the 111 miles (179 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 Northampton leaves at 1:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Northampton leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 15 buses a day from Cardiff to Northampton which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Northampton, you can count on National Express, Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Northampton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Northampton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Northampton from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Northampton is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Northampton including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Northampton for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Northampton:
  • 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.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Northampton 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.
  • 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 Northampton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Northampton:
  • 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.
  • 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 Northampton:
  • 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.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cardiff to Northampton. 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 Northampton with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Northampton with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Northampton with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Cardiff nor Northampton 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 Northampton 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 Northampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and market. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed transportation and keep personal belongings secure. Staying aware of surroundings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night enhances 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 Northampton

Most Cardiff to Northampton buses use the Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) to Northampton, Town Centre station pair, with some services arriving at Northampton, Saxon Avenue / Wake Way (Grange Park). Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Northampton 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 Northampton
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
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, 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

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