- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and archaeology collections. A top cultural stop in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Darlington to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 12
Cheapest price
$42
Average price
$52
Fastest journey
10 h 5 m
Average duration
10 h 43 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
356 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Darlington to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Darlington to Cardiff will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Darlington for Cardiff on Fri, Jun 12, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 12 the direct buses cover the 356 km distance in an average of 10 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 5 m .
On Fri, Jun 12 the slowest buses will take 11 h 20 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.
2:25 PM11h20Darlington1:45 AMCardiff$421One-way0 transfers- 1:45 AM10h05Darlington11:50 AMCardiff$631One-way0 transfers
- 1:45 AM10h05Darlington11:50 AMCardiff$631One-way0 transfers
- 2:25 PM11h20Darlington1:45 AMCardiff$421One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Darlington to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Darlington to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a train costs an average of $69.
Distance: 221 miles (356 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$62 Average price Cheapest | $152 Average price | $100 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 55m Average total duration 9h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 34m Average total duration Fastest 5h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg 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 Darlington to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $62 (€50).
This is compared to other travel options from Darlington to Cardiff:
A bus is $90 (€73) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Darlington to Cardiff costing on average $152 (€124).
The fastest way to travel from Darlington to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 5h 4m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Darlington and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Darlington to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $62 (€50) compared to roughly $100 (€81) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $38 (€31). The journey takes 9h 25m versus 5h 13m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Megabus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Darlington to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 11h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Live departures
Darlington to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Darlington to Cardiff buses for tomorrow, Friday, June 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:45 AM Darlington | 10h05 | 11:50 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:25 PM Darlington | 11h20 | 1:45 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Darlington to Cardiff 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
Jun 12
Jun 12
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Jun 18
Why should you book Darlington to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Darlington to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Darlington to Cardiff.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Darlington to Cardiff.
- 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 Darlington to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Darlington to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Darlington to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Darlington to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Darlington to Cardiff run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 (€34) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 221 miles (356 km) distance in 10h 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 221 miles (356 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€34) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 10h 5m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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 from Darlington to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Darlington to Cardiff with National Express, Megabus for as low as $42 (€34). 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
10h 5m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
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
26h 50m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
Megabus frequency
1 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 Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum showing Welsh historic buildings, crafts, and daily life. One of Wales's most celebrated cultural attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Local history museum covering Cardiff's growth from small town to capital city, with interactive displays and social history exhibits.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Waterfront district with modern public spaces, harbourside walks, major landmarks, and a lively atmosphere.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large riverside park beside the castle, ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxing near the city centre.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Network of elegant Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades, famous for architecture and independent businesses.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Toasted bread topped with a rich savoury cheese sauce, often flavoured with mustard or ale. A classic Welsh dish strongly associated with Cardiff pubs and cafes.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausages
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is a distinctive meat-free regional speciality.
Pasture Cardiff
Popular steakhouse focused on wood-fired cooking, quality Welsh beef, and a lively upscale atmosphere close to the city centre.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Well-known restaurant at HMP Cardiff offering refined dining with a social mission, using seasonal ingredients in a calm, professional setting.
Pettigrew Tea Rooms
Charming tea room near Bute Park, loved for Welsh cakes, afternoon tea, and homemade bakes in a relaxed heritage atmosphere.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Dining and transport are manageable, while central hotels and nightlife cost more on busy weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxis. Not expected in pubs or cafés, but small change is appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.60
To the city center
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) -> Cardiff Central Station
- Distance
- 1.7 km
- Travel time
- 11 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless on Cardiff Bus services; daily fare capping can make multiple trips cheaper than buying separate tickets.
- Use the Transport for Wales app for rail tickets and live journey planning, especially if combining local bus travel with regional train journeys.
FAQs: Bus from Darlington to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Darlington to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Darlington to Cardiff can start from as little as $42 (€34) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Darlington to Cardiff is $62 (€50) ; 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 Darlington to Cardiff is 10h 5m to travel the 221 miles (356 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 Darlington to Cardiff leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Darlington to Cardiff leaves at 11:00 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Darlington to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Darlington to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Darlington and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Darlington is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 10h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Darlington to Cardiff is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Darlington and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Darlington to Cardiff:
- 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Darlington to Cardiff for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cardiff are:
- Cardiff Castle, a historic fortress with Roman and Norman roots offering guided tours and events
- St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum showcasing Welsh life and culture through reconstructed buildings and exhibits
- Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions
- National Museum Cardiff, featuring art, archaeology, and natural history collections
- Bute Park, a large green space perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The best things to do in Cardiff include:
- Millennium Centre, a renowned arts venue hosting opera, ballet, and theater performances
- Explore the vibrant nightlife in Cardiff's city center with its array of pubs and clubs
- Take a boat tour around Cardiff Bay for scenic views and historical insights
- Visit the Cardiff International White Water for an adventurous day of rafting and kayaking
- Enjoy shopping and dining at the bustling Cardiff Market, offering local produce and unique finds.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Darlington to Cardiff 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.
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 Darlington to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Darlington to Cardiff:
- 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.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Darlington to Cardiff:
- 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.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Darlington to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Darlington to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Darlington to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Darlington to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Darlington nor Cardiff 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 Darlington to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps 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 Darlington to Cardiff
Darlington
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Darlington is Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre) for your trip from Darlington to Cardiff.
Darlington, Feethams (Dolphin Centre)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) for your trip to Cardiff from Darlington.
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
information
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, University
information
Most popular bus connections from Darlington
More options for your journey from Darlington to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Darlington
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