- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
The University of Cambridge’s flagship museum, known for major collections of art, antiquities, and manuscripts. A top cultural stop with free permanent galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chester to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$71
Average price
$71
Fastest journey
11 h 10 m
Average duration
11 h 10 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chester to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chester to Cambridge will cost around $71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $71.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chester to Cambridge without transferring at least once.
7:40 AM11h10Chester6:50 PMCambridge$711One-way1 transfer
- 7:40 AM11h10Chester6:50 PMCambridge$711One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Chester to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chester to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. 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 $38, and a train costs an average of $85.
Distance: 143 miles (231 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$58 Average price Cheapest | $142 Average price | $78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 10m Average total duration 6h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  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 Chester to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $58 (€47).
This is compared to other travel options from Chester to Cambridge:
A bus is $84 (€69) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chester to Cambridge costing on average $142 (€116).
The fastest way to travel from Chester to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chester and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chester to Cambridge 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.
Chester to Cambridge Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Live departures
Chester to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Cambridge buses for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:40 AM Chester | 11h10 | 6:50 PM Cambridge | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chester to Cambridge 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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Why should you book Chester to Cambridge buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Chester to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Cambridge.
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 Chester to Cambridge.
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 Chester to Cambridge.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chester to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Chester to Cambridge run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 17:30. The fastest bus covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 9h 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 143 miles (231 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 9h 15m |
First bus 12:30 AM |
Last bus 5:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 Chester to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Chester to Cambridge with National Express for as low as $38 (€31). 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 Duration
9h 15m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
National Express frequency
1 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 Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Must visit
Kettle’s Yard
A renowned modern and contemporary art house museum with intimate displays and a distinctive domestic setting. One of Cambridge’s most characterful art venues.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
University museum with important world archaeology and anthropology collections, including Pacific, African, and British material. Excellent for a deeper academic side of Cambridge.
- Must visit
King’s Parade
The city’s most famous street, lined with historic college architecture and classic views of King’s College Chapel. Essential for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
The Backs
A celebrated walking area with riverside paths and some of the city’s most iconic college views. Especially beautiful in spring and autumn.
- Recommended
Market Square
The busy historic center of Cambridge, surrounded by major sights and a long-running market tradition. Good for atmosphere and people-watching.
- Vegetarian
Chelsea Bun
A sticky spiced currant bun strongly associated with Cambridge through Fitzbillies, a long-standing local bakery and tea room.
Cambridgeshire Pork Sausage
Traditional local pork sausages, often served with mash or in breakfast plates, reflecting the county’s farming heritage.
Roast Beef And Yorkshire Pudding
A classic English Sunday roast commonly enjoyed in Cambridge pubs, with roasted beef, gravy, vegetables, and Yorkshire pudding.
Midsummer House
A celebrated fine dining restaurant on the River Cam, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
A well-regarded independent restaurant serving seasonal modern British cuisine in an intimate, elegant townhouse setting.
The Eagle
A historic Cambridge pub famous for classic British food, ales, and its longstanding connection to the city’s academic history.
Pound sterling
Costs are high by UK standards, especially for hotels and dining in the centre, though markets and pubs offer cheaper options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway, street food, or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant or pub.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or flat white.
Tipping culture
Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service, though small change is appreciated.
MyTrip Cambridge
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) -> Cambridge Railway Station
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most local buses in Cambridge, and capped fares may apply on some operators.
- If you use buses frequently in one day, check operator day tickets in advance as they can cost less than buying single fares.
FAQs: Bus from Chester to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chester to Cambridge can start from as little as $38 (€31) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chester to Cambridge is $58 (€47) ; 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 Chester to Cambridge is 9h 15m to travel the 143 miles (231 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 Chester to Cambridge leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chester to Cambridge leaves at 5:30 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Chester to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chester to Cambridge, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chester and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cambridge from Chester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chester to Cambridge is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chester and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chester to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chester to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cambridge are:
- King's College Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture known for its impressive fan vault and beautiful stained glass windows
- The Fitzwilliam Museum, a renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the world
- The Backs, a picturesque area along the River Cam offering scenic views of the colleges and lush gardens
- Trinity College, one of the largest and wealthiest colleges in Cambridge, famous for its historic Great Court and library
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden showcasing a diverse range of plant species and offering a tranquil escape from the city.
The best things to do in Cambridge include:
- Punting on the River Cam, a traditional Cambridge activity offering scenic views of the colleges and bridges
- Visit the Cambridge Science Centre, an interactive museum perfect for families and science enthusiasts
- Explore the historic Market Square, where you can find local produce, crafts, and street food
- Attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, featuring a variety of shows from drama to comedy
- Take a guided walking tour to discover the rich history and hidden gems of Cambridge.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chester to Cambridge 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 Chester to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chester to Cambridge:
- 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 Chester to Cambridge:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chester to Cambridge.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Chester nor Cambridge 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chester to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chester to Cambridge
Most Chester to Cambridge buses use the Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chester and Cambridge bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chester
Arrival bus stations in Cambridge
Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)Chester Interchange station, George Street 26, CH1 3EA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) from Chester city centre
Bus11, 11A · 4m · $2 · every ~8 min
61, 16, 62 · 8m · $5 · every ~9 min
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) from Cambridge city centre
BusTour · 31m · $2 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from Chester
More options for your journey from Chester to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cambridge and Chester
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