- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Loughborough to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$28
Average price
$28
Fastest journey
8 h 45 m
Average duration
8 h 45 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
197 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Loughborough to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Loughborough to Cardiff will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Loughborough for Cardiff on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 197 km distance in an average of 8 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 45 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 8 h 45 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.
5:00 PM8h45Loughborough1:45 AMCardiff$281One-way0 transfers
- 5:00 PM8h45Loughborough1:45 AMCardiff$281One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Loughborough to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Loughborough to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a train costs an average of $53.
Distance: 122 miles (197 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$32 Average price Cheapest | $100 Average price | $56 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 14m Average total duration 8h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 32m Average total duration Fastest 3h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Loughborough to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Loughborough to Cardiff:
A bus is $68 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Loughborough to Cardiff costing on average $100 (€81).
The fastest way to travel from Loughborough to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 2m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Loughborough and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Loughborough to Cardiff 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.
Loughborough to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 10:59PM | Duration 8h14 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Live departures
Loughborough to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Loughborough to Cardiff buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:00 PM Loughborough | 8h45 | 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 Loughborough to Cardiff 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
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Aug 11
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Loughborough to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Loughborough to Cardiff run on average 14 times per day, taking around 8h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 122 miles (197 km) distance in 7h 45m.
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 122 miles (197 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 7h 45m |
First bus 1:40 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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: Kinchbus from Loughborough to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Loughborough to Cardiff with Kinchbus for as low as $25 (€20). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Kinchbus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 46m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Kinchbus frequency
1 a day
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 history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- 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
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.
Cardiff Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens) -> Cardiff Central Station
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Cardiff Bus services. Buying in the official app can speed up boarding.
- Transport for Wales rail services also accept contactless and card payments at many stations, but fares and products vary by route.
FAQs: Bus from Loughborough to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Loughborough 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 Loughborough to Cardiff can start from as little as $25 (€20) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Loughborough to Cardiff is $32 (€26) ; 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 Loughborough to Cardiff is 7h 45m to travel the 122 miles (197 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 Loughborough to Cardiff leaves at 1:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Loughborough to Cardiff leaves at 11:25 PM.
There are 14 buses a day from Loughborough to Cardiff which require at least one change with Kinchbus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Loughborough to Cardiff, you can count on Kinchbus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Loughborough and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Loughborough , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Loughborough, The Rushes, Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda), Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station, Nottingham, Broadmarsh Bus Station, Nottingham, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, Millennium Way East (Phoenix Park P+R) . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), Cardiff, University, Newport, Queensway .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Loughborough, The Rushes, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cardiff from Loughborough is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Loughborough to Cardiff is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Loughborough and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff.
No, the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff has no accessibility options.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff.
No, luggage for the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Since neither Loughborough 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Loughborough 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 Loughborough to Cardiff
Most Loughborough to Cardiff buses use the Loughborough, The Rushes to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). Use this guide to compare Loughborough and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Loughborough
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Which Loughborough station do buses to Cardiff leave from?
Buses from Loughborough to Cardiff leave from Loughborough, The Rushes. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Loughborough city centre at Loughborough (The Rushes), Loughborough LE11 5BE, UK.
Loughborough, The RushesLoughborough (The Rushes), Loughborough LE11 5BE, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Loughborough, The Rushes from Loughborough city centre
Loughborough, The Rushes is 1 km from Loughborough city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus127 · 4m · $2 · every ~11 min
Sky · 7m · $2 · every ~15 min
Loughborough, The Rushes bus station facilities and services
Loughborough, The Rushes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Loughborough, The Rushes. ATMs are available at Loughborough, The Rushes.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Loughborough, The Rushes.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Loughborough, The Rushes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Loughborough, The Rushes: Basic accessibility features are available.
Which Cardiff station do buses from Loughborough arrive at?
Buses from Loughborough to Cardiff most often arrive at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Some services arrive at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cardiff arrival station.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre
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Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)Cardiff CF10 3RB, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 21, 136, 23 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). ATMs are available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB): Accessible via ramped access.
Most popular bus connections from Loughborough
More options for your journey from Loughborough to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Loughborough
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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