- Must visit
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Luton's main museum in a Victorian mansion, covering local history, hats, lace, and changing exhibitions in a well-kept park setting.
We are not able to find a bus between these two places.
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Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Derby to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 34m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $18.
Distance: 84 miles (136 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price Cheapest | $71 Average price | $35 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 0m Average total duration 3h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 4m Average total duration Fastest 1h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Derby to Luton:
A bus is $47 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Derby to Luton costing on average $71 (€58).
Other travel options to Luton take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 30m.
Tickets start at around $24 (€19) compared to roughly $35 (€29) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $12 (€9). The journey takes 3h 30m versus 1h 49m 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 National Express.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:10AM | Arrival Time 03:35AM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:50AM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:55AM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25AM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25AM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:40AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 09:25AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $18 |
The table below shows live departures for Derby to Luton buses for today, Thursday, July 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 10:10 PM Derby | 3h25 | 1:35 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 17 | |||||
NX230 | 12:10 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h35 | 3:45 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 12:10 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h25 | 3:35 AM Luton, Station Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 12:55 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h35 | 4:30 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 12:55 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h25 | 4:20 AM Luton, Station Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 2:25 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h25 | 5:50 AM Luton, Station Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 2:25 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h35 | 6:00 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 4:10 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h45 | 7:55 AM Luton, Station Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 4:10 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h55 | 8:05 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 5:40 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h45 | 9:25 AM Luton, Station Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 5:40 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h55 | 9:35 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 7:35 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h45 | 11:20 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 7:35 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h35 | 11:10 AM Luton, Station Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 9:40 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h35 | 1:15 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 9:40 AM Derby, Bus Station | 3h45 | 1:25 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX440 · NX230 | 11:10 AM Derby, Bus Station | 4h00 | 3:10 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 1 transfer | |
NX440 · NX230 | 11:10 AM Derby, Bus Station | 4h10 | 3:20 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX230 | 12:05 PM Derby, Bus Station | 3h55 | 4:00 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX230 | 12:05 PM Derby, Bus Station | 3h45 | 3:50 PM Luton, Station Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Derby to Luton run on average 27 times per day, taking around 3h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 16 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 2h 50m.
Distance 84 miles (136 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Buses per day 27 |
Direct buses 16 |
Fastest bus 2h 50m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Luton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Luton trip today.
Luton's main museum in a Victorian mansion, covering local history, hats, lace, and changing exhibitions in a well-kept park setting.
Museum complex with rural life displays, carriages, gardens, and archaeology, making it one of Luton's strongest family-friendly heritage sites.
Working hat factory museum explaining Luton's famous hat-making trade through machinery, displays, and guided tours in an authentic setting.
Large formal park with lakes, bridges, museum, and broad lawns, ideal for relaxing walks and one of Luton's best-loved green spaces.
Historic town centre square beside St Mary's Church, valued for events, heritage surroundings, and an authentic sense of old Luton.
Extensive parkland with gardens, play areas, and museum access, popular for family walks and exploring Luton's former estate landscape.
A Bedfordshire pastry with chopped meat, suet, onions and seasoning. It is closely tied to the county around Luton and is a classic local comfort food.
A suet dumpling stuffed with currants or jam. Long associated with Bedfordshire home cooking, it is a traditional local pudding served warm.
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit and spices. It is a historic Bedfordshire bake often made for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Established Turkish restaurant known for grilled meats, meze and generous portions. Casual atmosphere and dependable local favourite.
Well-known Indian restaurant with polished service and a long-standing reputation. Popular for classic curries in a smart but relaxed setting.
Popular South Indian venue serving dosas, idli and vegetarian dishes. Simple setting, strong reputation and reliable regional flavours.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels near the airport can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.
Service may be included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
Official public transport app
Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney) -> Luton Station Interchange
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Derby to Luton 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 Luton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Derby to Luton buses use the Derby, Bus Station to Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Luton, Station Interchange. Use this guide to compare Derby and Luton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need