- Recommended
House on the Hill Toy Museum
House museum beside the castle displaying eccentric collections, period rooms and curiosities that make for an unusual visit near Stansted.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Cardiff to Stansted
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 30 Oct
- Cheapest price on 30 Oct
- £32
- Average ticket price on 30 Oct
- £52
- Fastest journey on 30 Oct
- 5 h
- Average journey duration on 30 Oct
- 5 h 16 m
- Buses on 30 Oct
- 14
- Distance
- 241 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Cardiff to Stansted is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Stansted will cost around £52 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £32.
Fast coaches
To travel from Cardiff to Stansted you need to make at least one change.
NX509 · NXA816:30 6h25 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 22:55 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £32 1 One-way 1 change- NX509 · NXA8
17:30 6h20 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 23:50 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £32 1 One-way 1 change - NX509 · NXA8
12:45 7h00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 19:45 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £32 1 One-way 1 change - NX509 · NXA8
11:30 6h55 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 18:25 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £34 1 One-way 1 change - NX509 · NXA6
19:45 6h40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 2:25 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £36 1 One-way 1 change
- NX201 · NX727
9:30 5h00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 14:30 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £68 1 One-way 1 change - NX201 · NX728
5:25 5h10 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 10:35 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £72 1 One-way 1 change - NX201 · NX727
7:15 5h10 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 12:25 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £60 1 One-way 1 change - NX201 · NX728
3:30 5h25 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 8:55 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £50 1 One-way 1 change - NX202 · NX727
15:05 5h35 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 20:40 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station £65 1 One-way 1 change
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Stansted
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Stansted run on average 15 times per day, taking around 5h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £20 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 01:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest coach covers the 241 km distance in 4h 0m.
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 241 km |
Average bus duration 5h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £20 |
Buses per day 15 |
Fastest bus 4h 0m |
First bus 1:05 |
Last bus 23:50 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 49 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
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Stansted trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Stansted.
Cheap coach tickets from Cardiff to Stansted can start from as little as £20 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Cardiff to Stansted is £46; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Cardiff to Stansted leaves at 1:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Cardiff to Stansted leaves at 23:50.
There are 15 coaches a day from Cardiff to Stansted which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
Live departures
Cardiff to Stansted bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Stansted coaches for today, Thursday 29 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19:23 Cardiff | 7h02 | 2:25 Stansted | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday 30 October | |||||
| NX201 · NX728 | 3:30 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 5h25 | 8:55 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX201 · NX728 | 5:25 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 5h10 | 10:35 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX201 · NX727 | 7:15 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 5h10 | 12:25 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX201 · NX727 | 9:30 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 5h00 | 14:30 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX202 · NX727 | 10:35 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 5h35 | 16:10 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX509 · NXA8 | 11:30 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h55 | 18:25 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX202 · NX727 | 12:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h25 | 19:05 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX509 · NXA8 | 12:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 7h00 | 19:45 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX202 · NX727 | 15:05 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 5h35 | 20:40 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX201 · NX727 | 16:25 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h15 | 22:40 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX509 · NXA8 | 16:30 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h25 | 22:55 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX509 · NXA8 | 17:30 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h20 | 23:50 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
| NX507 · NXA8 | 18:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h15 | 1:00 Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 change | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Stansted coaches with Omio?
National Express operates all coaches services from Cardiff to Stansted.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Stansted.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- 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 Cardiff to Stansted.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Stansted.
Bus providers: National Express from Cardiff to StanstedYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Stansted with National Express for as low as £20. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
£20
National Express frequency
15 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 Cardiff and Stansted
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a coach from Cardiff to Stansted, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Stansted. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Stansted and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Cardiff to Stansted:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Cardiff to Stansted for coach company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Cardiff to Stansted depends on the coach 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company {providersWithBike}.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Cardiff to Stansted.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Cardiff to Stansted:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Cardiff to Stansted:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Cardiff to Stansted.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Cardiff to Stansted with the following coach company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Cardiff to Stansted with the following coach company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Cardiff to Stansted with the following coach company: National Express.
Complete guide to Stansted
Things to do in Stansted
Discover the best of Stansted — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stansted trip today.
- Recommended
Saffron Walden Museum
Museum and art gallery in Saffron Walden with natural history, archaeology, world cultures and temporary exhibitions in one compact venue.
- Recommended
Stansted Airport Aviation Museum
Aviation museum at the airport featuring preserved aircraft and displays on Stansted’s role in civil and military aviation.
- Must visit
Hatfield Forest
Large country park with lakes, woodland and open grassland. Popular for walking, birdwatching and an easy escape close to the airport.
- Recommended
Market Place, Saffron Walden
Historic market square in Saffron Walden lined with old buildings, shops and regular market activity, ideal for a short stroll and photos.
- Recommended
Bridge End Garden
Landscaped park around a maze, open lawns and ornamental features. It is a pleasant local favourite for a quiet walk near Stansted.
- Gluten-free
Essex Smoked Bacon
Essex smoked bacon is traditionally cured and smoked, prized for a rich savoury flavour and long links to the county’s farming and breakfast tables.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tiptree Jam
Tiptree jam, made in Essex since the nineteenth century, is a classic local preserve served with toast, scones and afternoon tea.
- Vegetarian
Bread And Butter Pudding
Bread and butter pudding is a traditional English dessert of buttered bread, dried fruit, custard and baking, widely eaten in Essex pubs and homes.
The Linden Tree
Smart country-house dining venue in Elsenham offering modern British dishes in a quieter, more refined setting.
The Dog and Duck
Traditional pub near Stansted Mountfitchet serving British classics and drinks in a historic, cosy setting.
The Cork House
Established pub and restaurant in Stansted Mountfitchet known for hearty British meals and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: airport-area stays and rail fares are pricey, but casual dining and coffee are fairly typical for UK tourist hubs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add 10-12.5% service; otherwise round up or tip 10%. Taxis: round up. Cafes: optional small change.
TfL Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £7.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
London Liverpool Street -> London Liverpool Street
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless cards and devices work across TfL buses, trams, Tube, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line and most National Rail services in London.
- For buses and trams, the Hopper fare is £1.75 and a One Day Bus & Tram Pass is £6.00. Pay as you go is usually cheaper than paper Tube or rail tickets.
FAQs: Cardiff to Stansted coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Stansted by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Stansted, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Stansted including taking a coach 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
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Stansted
Most Cardiff to Stansted buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Stansted bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cardiff
Arrival bus stations in Stansted
Which Cardiff station do buses to Stansted leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Stansted leave from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. The station is 1 km from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK.
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, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, University from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · £1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Most popular bus connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Stansted
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Stansted and Cardiff
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