2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Mar 21
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$62
Fastest journey
8 h 45 m
Average duration
10 h 53 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
256 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Cardiff will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Preston to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
NX181 · NX101 · NX20203:20AM8h45
Preston, Bus Station12:05PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$521One-way
2 transfers
NX424 · NX100 · NX20110:35PM12h25
Preston, Bus Station11:00AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$601One-way
2 transfers
FlixBus · FlixBus02:15PM11h30
Preston, Bus Station01:45AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$731One-way
1 transfer
NX181 · NX101 · NX20203:20AM8h45
Preston, Bus Station12:05PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$521One-way
2 transfers
FlixBus · FlixBus02:15PM11h30
Preston, Bus Station01:45AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$731One-way
1 transfer
NX424 · NX100 · NX20110:35PM12h25
Preston, Bus Station11:00AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$601One-way
2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 47m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a train costs an average of $67.
Distance: 159 miles (256 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$59 Average price Cheapest | $116 Average price |
8h 50m Average total duration 8h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 3h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Preston to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 12h25 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $57 |
Live departures
Preston to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Cardiff buses for today, Friday, March 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 9:23 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:35 PM Preston | 12h25 | 11:00 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, March 21 | |||||
| NX181 · NX101 · NX202 | On time 3:20 AM Preston, Bus Station | 8h45 | 12:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:15 PM Preston, Bus Station | 11h30 | 1:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Cardiff 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.
Sat
Mar 21
Mar 21
Sun
Mar 22
Mar 22
Mon
Mar 23
Mar 23
Tue
Mar 24
Mar 24
Wed
Mar 25
Mar 25
Thu
Mar 26
Mar 26
Fri
Mar 27
Mar 27
Why should you book Preston to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Preston to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston 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 Preston 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston 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 Preston to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Cardiff run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 8h 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 159 miles (256 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€25) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 8h 45m |
First bus 03:15 |
Last bus 23:00 |
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 Preston to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Preston to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $31 (€25). 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
11h 30m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
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 Duration
8h 45m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
National Express frequency
2 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.
FAQs: Bus from Preston to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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 Preston to Cardiff can start from as little as $31 (€25) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Cardiff is $59 (€48) ; 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 Preston to Cardiff is 8h 45m to travel the 159 miles (256 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 Preston to Cardiff leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Cardiff leaves at 11:00 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Preston to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Preston 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 Preston and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Preston is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Preston to Cardiff is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston 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 Preston to Cardiff for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston 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 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 Preston to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Preston to Cardiff
Preston
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Preston is Preston, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston, Bus Station for your trip from Preston to Cardiff.
Preston, Bus Station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip to Cardiff from Preston.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Cardiff, University
information
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Preston
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
