Leicester to Cambridge bus with National Express

Thu, May 28
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Leicester to Cambridge

Showing times and prices for May 28

Cheapest price

$23

Average price

$52

Fastest journey

1 h 40 m

Average duration

2 h 58 m

Buses per day

9

Distance

98 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leicester to Cambridge will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.

Fast buses

Of the 9 buses that leave Leicester for Cambridge on Thu, May 28, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 28 the direct buses cover the 98 km distance in an average of 2 h 58 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .

On Thu, May 28 the slowest buses will take 4 h 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    6:50 AM4h30
    Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    11:20 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $231One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    4:20 AM3h50
    Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    8:10 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $281One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    4:40 AM3h30
    Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
    8:10 AMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $281One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX777
    5:20 PM1h50
    Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    7:10 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $361One-way
    0 transfers
  • National ExpressNX777
    7:55 PM1h40
    Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    9:35 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
    $361One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Leicester to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Cambridge 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 2h 20m. 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 $16.

Distance: 60 miles (98 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$26

Average price

Cheapest

$36

Average price

$26

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 4m

Average total duration

3h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 41m

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

CrossCountry

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 Leicester to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $26 (€21).

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

A bus is $10 (€8) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Cambridge costing on average $36 (€29).

The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 2h 20m.

Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester 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 $26 (€21) compared to roughly $26 (€21) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $0.16 (€0.13). The journey takes 3h 34m versus 1h 41m 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.

Leicester to Cambridge Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:45AM
Arrival Time
05:45AM
Duration
4h00
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$73
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:40AM
Arrival Time
12:10PM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:15AM
Arrival Time
11:15AM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Mon, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:20AM
Arrival Time
08:10AM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:40AM
Arrival Time
08:10AM
Duration
3h30
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:45AM
Arrival Time
12:10PM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:55AM
Arrival Time
10:25AM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05AM
Arrival Time
10:25AM
Duration
4h20
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:50AM
Arrival Time
11:20AM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$21
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
02:00PM
Duration
4h40
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$73
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:50PM
Arrival Time
06:55PM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
06:45PM
Duration
4h45
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$73
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:20PM
Arrival Time
10:15PM
Duration
7h55
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$21
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
10:15PM
Duration
7h30
Departure days
Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:20PM
Arrival Time
10:00PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:45PM
Arrival Time
10:00PM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$21
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:20PM
Arrival Time
06:10PM
Duration
1h50
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:00PM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
1h50
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:20PM
Arrival Time
07:10PM
Duration
1h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:55PM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
1h40
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:55PM
Arrival Time
09:35PM
Duration
1h40
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$31

Live departures

Leicester to Cambridge bus times

The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Cambridge buses for tomorrow, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX230 · NX786
Delayed
12:50 PM 1:45 AMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h00
5:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:20 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
3h50
8:10 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:40 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
3h30
8:10 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · NX786
Delayed
12:50 PM 5:55 AMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h30
10:25 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:50 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h30
11:20 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · NX786
Delayed
12:50 PM 9:20 AMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
4h40
2:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
National ExpressNX230 · NX786
On time
1:50 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
5h05
6:55 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
1 transfer
National ExpressNX7775:20 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
1h50
7:10 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)0 transfersDirect
National ExpressNX7777:55 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
1h40
9:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leicester 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.

Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03

Why should you book Leicester to Cambridge buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Leicester to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Cambridge.

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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Cambridge.
  • 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 Leicester to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Cambridge.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Cambridge.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Leicester to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Leicester to Cambridge run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 34m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by train.

There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:45, the last at 23:20. The fastest bus covers the 60 miles (98 km) distance in 1h 40m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $16 (€13)
Distance
60 miles (98 km)
Average bus duration
3h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
$17 (€14)
Buses per day
10
Direct buses
2
Fastest bus
1h 40m
First bus
1:45 AM
Last bus
11:20 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $16 (€13)

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Leicester to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Leicester to Cambridge with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $16 (€13). 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 Duration
4h 30m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
FlixBus frequency
5 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 Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
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

The University of Cambridge’s principal museum, known for outstanding art, antiquities, and manuscripts. A major cultural stop with world-class collections.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

A University museum with important archaeological and ethnographic collections from Cambridge and around the world. Compact but highly regarded.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cambridge

A local social history museum in a former coaching inn, focusing on everyday life in Cambridge and the surrounding county.

Pound Sterling

Prices are above the UK average for hotels and dining, especially near the centre and colleges, but cafes, pubs and supermarkets help keep daily costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway, street food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often included only at higher-end restaurants. If not added, tip about 10-12.5% for good service. Rounding up is fine in pubs, cafes and taxis; tipping is not expected for counter service.

FAQs: Bus from Leicester to Cambridge

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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 Leicester to Cambridge can start from as little as $17 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Leicester to Cambridge is $26 (€21) ; 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 Leicester to Cambridge is 1h 40m to travel the 60 miles (98 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 Leicester to Cambridge leaves at 1:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Leicester to Cambridge leaves at 11:20 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Leicester to Cambridge with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Leicester to Cambridge, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Leicester and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Cambridge from Leicester is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Leicester to Cambridge is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Leicester to Cambridge:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Leicester to Cambridge for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Leicester 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.
  • 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, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Leicester to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Leicester to Cambridge:
  • 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 Leicester to Cambridge:
  • 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 Leicester to Cambridge. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Leicester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Leicester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Leicester to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Leicester 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 Leicester 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 Leicester to Cambridge

Leicester
Cambridge
The major bus station for departures in Leicester is Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station for your trip from Leicester to Cambridge.
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
information
Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
Leicester, Braunstone
information

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