- Must visit
The Higgins Bedford
Bedford's main museum covers local history, archaeology and communities. A strong first stop for understanding the town and wider county.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Derby to Bedford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 10 Sept
Cheapest price on 10 Sept
£26
Average ticket price on 10 Sept
£26
Fastest journey on 10 Sept
3 h 55 m
Average journey duration on 10 Sept
4 h 8 m
Buses on 10 Sept
2
Distance
111 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Derby to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Derby to Bedford will cost around £26 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £26.
Fast coaches
On Thu 10 Sept, we found 2 buses from Derby to Bedford, including 2 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 111 km distance in an average of 4 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 55 m .
The slowest buses will take 4 h 20 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.
14:103h55Derby18:05Bedford£261One-way0 changes- 7:354h20Derby11:55Bedford£271One-way0 changes
- 14:103h55Derby18:05Bedford£261One-way0 changes
- 7:354h20Derby11:55Bedford£271One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Derby to Bedford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Derby to Bedford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £27 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 41m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £27, while a train costs an average of £28.
Distance: 111 km
Compare bus with
| Coach | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£27 Average Price Cheapest | £28 Average Price | £22 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 56m Average total duration 3h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Derby to Bedford is a coach with an average price of £27.
This is compared to other travel options from Derby to Bedford:
A coach is £1 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Derby to Bedford costing on average £28.
The fastest way to travel from Derby to Bedford is by train with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to Bedford take longer:
Coach takes on average 3h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Derby and Bedford including taking a train and coach.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around £27 compared to roughly £22 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-4.50. The journey takes 3h 26m versus 1h 44m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Live departures
Derby to Bedford bus times
The table below shows live departures for Derby to Bedford coaches for tomorrow, Thursday 10 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:35 Derby | 4h20 | 11:55 Bedford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:10 Derby | 3h55 | 18:05 Bedford | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Derby to Bedford by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
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Why should you book Derby to Bedford coaches with Omio?
National Express as well as Kinchbus, FlixBus, Trent Barton and more offer coaches services from Derby to Bedford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Derby to Bedford.
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 Kinchbus, FlixBus or Trent Barton to find the best option for your trip from Derby to Bedford.
- 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 Derby to Bedford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Kinchbus, FlixBus or Trent Barton to find the best option for your trip from Derby to Bedford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Derby to Bedford.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Derby to Bedford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Derby to Bedford run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £26 but you can travel from only £15 by train.
The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:50. The fastest coach covers the 111 km distance in 4h 10m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £15
Distance 111 km |
Average bus duration 3h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price £26 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 4h 10m |
First bus 0:10 |
Last bus 23:50 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £15
Bus providers: National Express, Kinchbus, FlixBus, Trent Barton from Derby to BedfordYou can travel by bus between Derby to Bedford with National Express, Kinchbus, FlixBus, Trent Barton for as low as £15. 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 FlixBus Duration
3h 25m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£29
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 National Express Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
£26
National Express frequency
8 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.
Kinchbus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Kinchbus Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Kinchbus Price
£30
Kinchbus frequency
3 a day
Trent Barton
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Trent Barton Duration
3h 25m
Trent Barton frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Bedford
Things to do in Bedford
Discover the best of Bedford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bedford trip today.
- Recommended
John Bunyan Museum
Compact museum inside John Bunyan Meeting telling the story of the Bedford writer and preacher. Useful for literary and religious history.
The Eagle Gallery
Small independent gallery showcasing changing contemporary exhibitions. Worth a visit for local creative talent and a quieter art stop in the town centre.
- Must visit
The Embankment
Tree-lined riverside promenade beside the Great Ouse. It is one of Bedford's classic walks, with bridges, memorials and broad views of the water.
- Recommended
Russell Park
Central urban park with lawns, play areas and riverside paths. A practical stop for relaxing between sights and enjoying the water's edge.
- Recommended
Priory Country Park
Spacious park with sports facilities, open grass and access to the river. Popular with locals and useful for a longer walk away from the busiest streets.
Bedford Clanger
A spiced puff pastry turnover filled with curried mutton or beef. Brought by Bedford’s Italian community, it is the town’s best-known speciality.
Sweet Bedford Clanger
The sweet version of the Bedford Clanger, usually filled with jam or apple. It reflects the town’s baking tradition and local lunchbox heritage.
Steak And Kidney Pudding
A rich steamed suet pudding with beef and kidney. A classic English comfort dish long associated with traditional pubs and family cooking in Bedfordshire.
Anatolia
Well-known Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and a lively but polished atmosphere in Bedford town centre.
The River Room
Stylish riverside restaurant and bar serving modern British and European dishes in a relaxed setting by the Great Ouse.
Prego
Established Spanish tapas restaurant known for small plates, sangria and a warm, bustling atmosphere near the centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: stays and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly manageable for most visitors.
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 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10% for good service. Taxi tips are optional, often rounding up. Cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Traveline
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
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- Day pass
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To the city centre
Bedford Bus Station -> St Paul's Square, Bedford
- Distance
- 0.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Bedford Borough Council states bus services are run by independent operators, so fares vary by operator and route.
- Bedford Bus Station is a short walk from both Bedford town centre and Bedford railway station.
FAQs: Derby to Bedford coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Derby to Bedford 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 Bedford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Derby to Bedford can start from as little as £26 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Derby to Bedford is £27; 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 coach from Derby to Bedford is 4h 10m to travel the 111 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Derby to Bedford leaves at 0:10. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Derby to Bedford leaves at 23:50.
There are 7 coaches a day from Derby to Bedford which require at least one change with National Express, Kinchbus, FlixBus, Trent Barton. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Derby to Bedford, you can count on National Express, Kinchbus, FlixBus, Trent Barton for the best way to get you to Bedford. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Derby and Bedford and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Bedford from Derby is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Derby to Bedford is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Derby and Bedford including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Derby to Bedford:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Derby to Bedford for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Derby to Bedford 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.
- 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 coach with coach 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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Derby to Bedford.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Derby to Bedford:
- 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 coach ticket from Derby to Bedford:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Derby to Bedford. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Derby to Bedford with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Derby to Bedford with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Derby to Bedford with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Derby and Bedford
Most Derby to Bedford buses use the Derby, Bus Station to Milton Keynes, Coachway station pair. Use this guide to compare Derby and Bedford bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Derby
Arrival bus stations in Bedford
Derby, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby, Bus Station from Derby city centre
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · £2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Which Bedford station do buses from Derby arrive at?
Buses from Derby to Bedford most often arrive at Milton Keynes, Coachway. Some services arrive at Bedford, Bus Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bedford arrival station.
Bedford, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Bedford, Bus Station from Bedford city centre
Bus4 · 4m · £2 · every ~7 min
Most popular bus connections from Derby
More options for your journey from Derby to Bedford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bedford and Derby
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