Leeds to Cardiff bus with National Express

Wed 14 Oct
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National Express
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Leeds to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct

Cheapest price on 14 Oct

£18

Average ticket price on 14 Oct

£30

Fastest journey on 14 Oct

6 h 45 m

Average journey duration on 14 Oct

7 h 19 m

Buses on 14 Oct

12

Distance

280 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Leeds to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Leeds to Cardiff will cost around £30 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £18.

Fast coaches

On Wed 14 Oct, we found 12 buses from Leeds to Cardiff, including 1 direct services.

These direct buses cover the 280 km distance in an average of 7 h 19 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 45 m .

The slowest buses will take 8 h 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    13:206h45
    Leeds, Coach Station
    20:05Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    £181One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    19:107h10
    Leeds, Coach Station
    2:20Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    £221One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    6:459h25
    Leeds, Coach Station
    16:10Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    £231One-way
    1 change
  • National ExpressNX131 · NX100 · NX202
    8:258h05
    Leeds, Coach Station
    16:30Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    £231One-way
    2 changes
  • National ExpressNX131 · NX112
    9:556h45
    Leeds, Coach Station
    16:40Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    £241One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Leeds to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Leeds to Cardiff run on average 17 times per day, taking around 7h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £14 if you book in advance.

There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:30, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 280 km distance in 5h 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
Distance
280 km
Average bus duration
7h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
£14
Buses per day
17
Direct buses
1
Fastest bus
5h 10m
First bus
0:30
Last bus
23:55
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 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

Live departures

Leeds to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Leeds to Cardiff coaches for today, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National ExpressNX561 · NX50713:00 Leeds, Coach Station
9h15
22:15 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus13:20 Leeds, Coach Station
6h45
20:05 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)0 changesdirect
National ExpressNX131 · NX100 · NX20216:15 Leeds, Coach Station
8h35
0:50 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2 changes
National ExpressNX426 · NX50918:00 Leeds, Coach Station
8h45
2:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus19:10 Leeds, Coach Station
7h10
2:20 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX467 · NX50722:55 Leeds, Coach Station
12h55
11:50 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
Wednesday 14 October
National ExpressNX561 · NX5096:45 Leeds, Coach Station
9h35
16:20 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:45 Leeds, Coach Station
9h25
16:10 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX131 · NX100 · NX2028:25 Leeds, Coach Station
8h05
16:30 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus8:30 Leeds, Coach Station
8h00
16:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX131 · NX1129:55 Leeds, Coach Station
6h45
16:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNX133 · NX11111:50 Leeds, Coach Station
7h55
19:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Leeds to Cardiff coaches with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Leeds to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leeds 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 Leeds 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 Leeds 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 Leeds to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Leeds to Cardiff.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Leeds to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Leeds to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £14. 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
5h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£14
FlixBus frequency
5 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
5h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
£17
National Express frequency
11 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.

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

National Museum Cardiff

National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air museum of Welsh life with historic buildings, crafts, gardens and rural traditions relocated to spacious grounds west of the city.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Museum in a Victorian library celebrating Cardiff’s story through interactive displays, local history and a well-presented city timeline.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK city. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transport and casual meals stay fairly manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
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

Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually small change or rounding up.

Best day trips from Cardiff by bus

The most popular day trips by bus from Cardiff are Bristol, Bath, Swansea, Newport and Chepstow. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Cardiff on Omio.

A view of Bristol

Day trip from Cardiff to Bristol by bus

Why visit Bristol for the day?

Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.

How to get from Cardiff to Bristol by bus?

There are 30 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 41 km distance in 1h 0m.

A view of Bath

Day trip from Cardiff to Bath by bus

Why visit Bath for the day?

Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.

How to get from Cardiff to Bath by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 01:55, the last at 23:10. The fastest coach covers the 58 km distance in 1h 51m.

A view of Swansea

Day trip from Cardiff to Swansea by bus

Why visit Swansea for the day?

Swansea is known for its sweeping bay, maritime past and connection to Dylan Thomas. The city mixes a practical urban centre with a waterfront feel and quick access to the Gower coast.

How to get from Cardiff to Swansea by bus?

There are 44 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 55 km distance in 50m.

A view of Newport

Day trip from Cardiff to Newport by bus

Why visit Newport for the day?

Newport is a South Wales city known for its industrial past, the Transporter Bridge and riverside setting on the Usk. Regenerated shopping areas and historic sites give it a practical mix of modern city life and local heritage.

How to get from Cardiff to Newport by bus?

There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:54. The fastest coach covers the 17 km distance in 25m.

A view of Chepstow

Day trip from Cardiff to Chepstow by bus

Why visit Chepstow for the day?

Chepstow is a historic town on the River Wye, best known for its Norman castle and border setting. Its compact centre, medieval streets and access to the Wye Valley give it a strong sense of place.

How to get from Cardiff to Chepstow by bus?

There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 05:15, the last at 23:43. The fastest coach covers the 39 km distance in 45m.

FAQs: Leeds to Cardiff coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leeds to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Leeds to Cardiff can start from as little as £14 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Leeds to Cardiff is £32; 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 Leeds to Cardiff is 5h 10m to travel the 280 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 Leeds to Cardiff leaves at 0:30. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Leeds to Cardiff leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 1 direct coaches a day from Leeds to Cardiff with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Leeds to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Leeds and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Leeds , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Leeds, Coach Station, Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre), Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop, Bradford, Interchange Station . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your route in coach stations like Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, University, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), Newport, Queensway, Weston-super-Mare, Regent St (Interchange), Weston-super-Mare, Diamond Batch Car Park Stop (Worle Station), Cardiff, Millennium Stadium.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Leeds, Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leeds and Cardiff including taking a coach and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Leeds to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Leeds to Cardiff for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Leeds to Cardiff 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 Leeds to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Leeds 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 coach ticket from Leeds 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 coach from Leeds to Cardiff. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Leeds to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Leeds to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Leeds to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Leeds and Cardiff

Most Leeds to Cardiff buses use the Leeds, Coach Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Use this guide to compare Leeds and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Leeds
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff

Which Leeds station do buses to Cardiff leave from?

Buses from Leeds to Cardiff leave from Leeds, Coach Station. The station is 1 km from Leeds city centre at Leeds, New York St, Leeds LS2 7HU, UK.
Leeds, Coach StationLeeds, New York St, Leeds LS2 7HU, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Leeds, Coach Station from Leeds city centre

Bus874 · 3m
19, 19A · 3m · £2 · every ~7 min

Leeds, Coach Station bus station facilities and services

Leeds, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafe and snack kiosks available.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leeds, Coach Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leeds, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leeds, Coach Station: Wheelchair accessible with assistive services.

Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre)Leeds, New York St, Leeds LS2 7HU, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre) from Leeds city centre

Bus874 · 5m
19, 19A · 5m · £2 · every ~7 min

Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre) bus station facilities and services

Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Nearby cafes and eateries available

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre). ATMs are available at Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre): Wheelchair accessible entrances and facilities.

Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus StopLeeds, New York St, Leeds LS2 7HU, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop from Leeds city centre

TRUE

Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop bus station facilities and services

Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop 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 Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop. ATMs are available at Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leeds - Eastgate Victoria F Bus Stop: Bus stop is wheelchair accessible.

More options for your journey from Leeds to Cardiff

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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