Ipswich to Cambridge bus with National Express

Mon, Sep 07
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Ipswich to Cambridge

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 07

Cheapest price on Sep 07

$55

Average ticket price on Sep 07

$57

Fastest journey on Sep 07

2 h 45 m

Average journey duration on Sep 07

3 h 32 m

Buses on Sep 07

6

Distance

73 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Ipswich to Cambridge will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Ipswich to Cambridge without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressNX717 · NX727
    8:50 PM2h45
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    11:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $551One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX717 · NX727
    6:05 PM3h30
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    9:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $551One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX717 · NX727
    4:05 PM3h55
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    8:00 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $551One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX717 · NX727
    1:30 PM3h55
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    5:25 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $581One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX717 · NX727
    11:15 AM4h15
    Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
    3:30 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $601One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Ipswich to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ipswich to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $28 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 48m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $28, while a bus costs an average of $52.

Distance: 45 miles (73 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$52

Average price

$28

Average price

Cheapest

$21

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 54m

Average total duration

2h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 15m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Greater Anglia

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 Ipswich to Cambridge is a train with an average price of $28.

This is compared to other travel options from Ipswich to Cambridge:

A train is $23 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Ipswich to Cambridge costing on average $52.

The fastest way to travel from Ipswich to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 1h 18m.

Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 24m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ipswich to Cambridge 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 $52 compared to roughly $21 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-30.28. The journey takes 2h 24m versus 1h 15m 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.

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.

Ipswich to Cambridge Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greater Anglia
Departure Time
04:20AM
Arrival Time
06:31AM
Duration
2h11
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
11:35AM
Duration
3h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:15AM
Arrival Time
11:35AM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
Greater Anglia
Departure Time
08:20AM
Arrival Time
10:22AM
Duration
2h02
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
Greater Anglia
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
11:24AM
Duration
2h04
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:15AM
Arrival Time
03:30PM
Duration
4h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
05:25PM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
07:00PM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
4h10
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:05PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
3h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05PM
Arrival Time
09:35PM
Duration
3h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:50PM
Arrival Time
10:35PM
Duration
2h45
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:50PM
Arrival Time
11:35PM
Duration
2h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00PM
Arrival Time
01:45AM
Duration
4h45
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$49

Live departures

Ipswich to Cambridge bus times

The table below shows live departures for Ipswich to Cambridge buses for today, Sunday, September 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX717 · NX7276:05 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
3h30
9:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer
National ExpressNX717 · NX7278:50 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
2h45
11:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer
Monday, September 7
National ExpressNX717 · NX7288:00 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
3h35
11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer
National ExpressNX717 · NX72711:15 AM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
4h15
3:30 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer
National ExpressNX717 · NX7271:30 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
3h55
5:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer
National ExpressNX717 · NX7274:05 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
3h55
8:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Ipswich to Cambridge 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.

Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13

Why should you book Ipswich to Cambridge buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Ipswich to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ipswich to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Ipswich to Cambridge.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Ipswich to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Ipswich to Cambridge run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 22:50. The fastest bus covers the 45 miles (73 km) distance in 2h 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
45 miles (73 km)
Average bus duration
2h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
$22
Buses per day
6
Fastest bus
2h 5m
First bus
3:50 AM
Last bus
10:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
1 day
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, FlixBus from Ipswich to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Ipswich to Cambridge with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $28. 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 FlixBus Duration
3h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$22
FlixBus frequency
1 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
2h 5m
Cheapest National Express Price
$29
National Express frequency
6 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

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.

  • Recommended

Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Bus from Ipswich to Cambridge

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Ipswich to Cambridge can start from as little as $22 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Ipswich to Cambridge is $52 ; 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 Ipswich to Cambridge is 2h 5m to travel the 45 miles (73 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 Ipswich to Cambridge leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Ipswich to Cambridge leaves at 10:50 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cambridge from Ipswich is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Ipswich to Cambridge is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Cambridge:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Ipswich to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Ipswich 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Cambridge

Most Ipswich to Cambridge buses use the Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) station pair. Use this guide to compare Ipswich and Cambridge bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Ipswich
Arrival bus stations in Cambridge

Which Ipswich station do buses to Cambridge leave from?

Buses from Ipswich to Cambridge leave from Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Ipswich city centre at Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UK.
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) from Ipswich city centre

TRUE

Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) bus station facilities and services

Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurants available near Cardinal Park Cinema.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). ATMs are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Bus stop accessible for wheelchairs.

More options for your journey from Ipswich to Cambridge

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