- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Northampton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$23
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$27
Fastest journey on Oct 29
6 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
7 h 57 m
Buses on Oct 29
3
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 $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast buses
On Thu, Oct 29, we found 3 buses from Cardiff to Northampton, including 3 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 29 the direct buses cover the 179 km distance in an average of 7 h 57 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 40 m .
On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest buses will take 9 h 50 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.
9:40 AM 7h20 Cardiff 5:00 PM Northampton $23 1 One-way 0 transfers11:25 PM 9h50 Cardiff 9:15 AM Northampton $26 1 One-way 0 transfers5:45 AM 6h40 Cardiff 12:25 PM Northampton $33 1 One-way 0 transfers
5:45 AM 6h40 Cardiff 12:25 PM Northampton $33 1 One-way 0 transfers9:40 AM 7h20 Cardiff 5:00 PM Northampton $23 1 One-way 0 transfers11:25 PM 9h50 Cardiff 9:15 AM Northampton $26 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Northampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Northampton run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 23m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 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 4h 20m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance111 miles (179 km)
- Average bus duration5h 23m
- Cheapest ticket price$27
- Buses per day12
- Fastest bus4h 20m
- First bus1:40 AM
- Last bus11:40 PM
- Cheapest MonthMar
- Cheapest DayThu
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DaySun
- Least Busy DayWed
- Best time to book14 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 Northampton trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Northampton.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Northampton can start from as little as $27 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Northampton is $38 ; 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 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 12 buses a day from Cardiff to Northampton which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Cardiff to Northampton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
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 Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
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 $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $47 |
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 Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
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, Sat | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Sun | 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, Sun | 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, Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
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, Wednesday, October 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:40 PM Cardiff | 7h15 | 10:55 PM Northampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:25 PM Cardiff | 9h50 | 9:15 AM Northampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, October 29 | |||||
| 5:45 AM Cardiff | 6h40 | 12:25 PM Northampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:40 AM Cardiff | 7h20 | 5:00 PM Northampton | 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 Northampton buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express 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 FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express 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 FlixBus 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 National Express 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.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Cardiff to Northampton
Buses from Cardiff to Northampton with FlixBus and National Express. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus and National Express. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
4h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$27
FlixBus frequency
11 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
4h 20m
Cheapest National Express Price
$34
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Northampton
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 Northampton, you can count on FlixBus, National Express 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.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Northampton:
- 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 Northampton for bus company FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Northampton 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, 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:
- 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:
- 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: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Northampton with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Northampton with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
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
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.
- Must visit
Delapré Park
Extensive riverside parkland around Delapré Abbey, valued for walking, views, and access to one of the town's most historic estates.
- Must visit
Abington Park
Popular urban park with a lake, birdlife, and family-friendly paths. A pleasant stop for a quieter break from the town centre.
- Recommended
Derngate
Historic shopping street famous for 78 Derngate and fine Victorian architecture. It is ideal for a short heritage walk near the town centre.
- Gluten-free
Northamptonshire Sausage
A spiced cured beef sausage long linked with Northamptonshire. It is a classic local breakfast and sandwich filling with a distinctive peppery flavour.
- Vegetarian
Northamptonshire Pudding
A historic county pudding of suet pastry filled with apples or jam, then boiled or steamed. It is a traditional farmhouse dessert in Northamptonshire.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Northamptonshire Cheese
Crumbly local cheese traditionally made in Northamptonshire. Its mild, creamy taste makes it a regional staple on cheeseboards and in ploughman’s lunches.
Hibiscus
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and a refined special-occasion atmosphere.
The Tollemache Arms
Popular gastropub serving British classics, steaks and Sunday roasts in a relaxed village-style setting with a strong local reputation.
Miller & Carter Northampton
Well-regarded central venue for dry-aged steaks and grilled dishes, offering a contemporary interior and dependable service.
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.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Northampton Town Centre -> Northampton Town Centre
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Contactless card and mobile payment are accepted on most Stagecoach buses in Northampton.
- Bus fares can vary by operator, so check the Stagecoach Bus app before travel for live tickets and journey updates.
Plan your visit to Northampton
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 Northampton.
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.
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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Northampton including taking a train and bus.
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 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
Which Cardiff station do buses to Northampton leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Northampton leave from Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). The station is from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK.
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, 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, 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
Northampton, Town Centre
Northampton, Saxon Avenue / Wake Way (Grange Park)Northampton Grange Park, Saxon Ave, NN4 5BR
City-centre transport
Getting to Northampton, Saxon Avenue / Wake Way (Grange Park) from Northampton city centre
BusX6 · 24m · $3 · every ~5 min
X6, 11, 11A · 24m · $3 · every ~10 min
X6 · 47m · $6 · every ~5 min
Most popular bus connections from Cardiff
Most popular buses to and from Northampton and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Northampton
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