- 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, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- CHF 22
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- CHF 42
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 8 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 8 h 39 m
- Buses on Nov 04
- 5
- 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 CHF 42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF 22.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Loughborough to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus6:45 AM 8h30 Loughborough, The Rushes 3:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) CHF 22 1 One-way 1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus
9:35 AM 10h05 Loughborough, The Rushes 7:40 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) CHF 25 1 One-way 1 transfer 
NX440 · NX5079:50 AM 8h10 Loughborough, The Rushes 6:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens CHF 50 1 One-way 1 transfer- NX440 · NX508
6:55 AM 8h10 Loughborough, The Rushes 3:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens CHF 56 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX440 · NX507
12:20 PM 8h20 Loughborough, The Rushes 8:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens CHF 56 1 One-way 1 transfer
- NX440 · NX507
9:50 AM 8h10 Loughborough, The Rushes 6:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens CHF 50 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX440 · NX508
6:55 AM 8h10 Loughborough, The Rushes 3:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens CHF 56 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX440 · NX507
12:20 PM 8h20 Loughborough, The Rushes 8:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens CHF 56 1 One-way 1 transfer - FlixBus · FlixBus
6:45 AM 8h30 Loughborough, The Rushes 3:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) CHF 22 1 One-way 1 transfer - FlixBus · FlixBus
9:35 AM 10h05 Loughborough, The Rushes 7:40 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) CHF 25 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Loughborough to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Loughborough to Cardiff run on average 5 times per day, taking around 7h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at CHF 24 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 4h 15m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance122 miles (197 km)
- Average bus duration7h 5m
- Cheapest ticket priceCHF 24
- Buses per day5
- Fastest bus4h 15m
- First bus1:40 AM
- Last bus11:25 PM
- Cheapest MonthAug
- Cheapest DayThu
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Best time to book28 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your Loughborough to Cardiff trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Cheap bus tickets from Loughborough to Cardiff can start from as little as CHF 24 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Loughborough to Cardiff is CHF 43 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
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 5 buses a day from Loughborough to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Loughborough to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF 40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price CHF 30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price CHF 21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF 32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF 40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price CHF 30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price CHF 23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF 30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 11:59PM | Duration 8h04 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:20PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 30 |
Live departures
Loughborough to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Loughborough to Cardiff buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:45 AM Loughborough, The Rushes | 8h30 | 3:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX508 | 6:55 AM Loughborough, The Rushes | 8h10 | 3:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:35 AM Loughborough, The Rushes | 10h05 | 7:40 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX507 | 9:50 AM Loughborough, The Rushes | 8h10 | 6:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX507 | 12:20 PM Loughborough, The Rushes | 8h20 | 8:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Loughborough to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Loughborough 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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Loughborough 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Loughborough to Cardiff.
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 Loughborough to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Loughborough to Cardiff
Buses from Loughborough to Cardiff with National Express and FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with National Express and FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
7h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
CHF 24
FlixBus frequency
2 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
4h 15m
Cheapest National Express Price
CHF 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Loughborough and Cardiff
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Loughborough to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, FlixBus 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.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Loughborough to Cardiff 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Loughborough to Cardiff:
- 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 Loughborough to Cardiff:
- 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 Loughborough to Cardiff. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Loughborough to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
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.
Plan your visit to Cardiff
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cardiff.
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.
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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Loughborough and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
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.
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, North Road (Friary Gardens). 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 · CHF 2 · every ~11 min
Sky · 7m · CHF 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, Sophia Gardens. Some services arrive at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cardiff arrival station.
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 · CHF 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, 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
TRUE
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.
Bus stations for Loughborough to Cardiff
Check bus stations information for Loughborough and Cardiff, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Loughborough , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Loughborough, The Rushes . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) .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, Sophia Gardens, located 1 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Loughborough
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Loughborough
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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