The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Cardiff
Cheapest price
$37
Average price
$71
Fastest journey
8 h 50 m
Average duration
10 h 57 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
256 km
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 $71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Of the 3 buses that leave Preston for Cardiff on Thu, Nov 06, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Nov 06 the direct buses cover the 256 km distance in an average of 10 h 57 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 50 m .
On Thu, Nov 06 the slowest buses will take 12 h 25 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.






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 €18. 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 €18, and a train costs an average of €54.
Distance: 159 miles (256 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€42 Average price Cheapest | €86 Average price |
7h 2m Average total duration 6h 32m 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.
Live departures
Preston to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Cardiff buses for today, Wednesday, November 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 1:15 PM Preston | 11h35 | 12:50 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 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.
Nov 06
Nov 07
Nov 08
Nov 09
Nov 10
Nov 11
Nov 12
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Cardiff
Distance 159 miles (256 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 8h 50m |
First bus 03:15 |
Last bus 23:00 |
Bus providers: National Express from Preston to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Preston to Cardiff with National Express for as low as $22 (€18). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
FAQs: Bus from Preston to Cardiff

- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Preston to Cardiff, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Preston to Cardiff
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

