Luton to Cheltenham bus with National Express

Sat 05 Sept
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Luton to Cheltenham

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Sept

Cheapest price on 05 Sept

£16

Average ticket price on 05 Sept

£19

Fastest journey on 05 Sept

4 h 40 m

Average journey duration on 05 Sept

5 h 22 m

Buses on 05 Sept

3

Distance

114 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Luton to Cheltenham will cost around £19 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £16.

Fast coaches

On Sat 05 Sept, we found 3 buses from Luton to Cheltenham, including 3 direct services.

These direct buses cover the 114 km distance in an average of 5 h 22 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 40 m .

The slowest buses will take 5 h 45 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.

  • FlixBus
    8:154h40
    Luton
    12:55Cheltenham
    £161One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixBus
    17:505h45
    Luton
    23:35Cheltenham
    £201One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixBus
    14:005h40
    Luton
    19:40Cheltenham
    £231One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach and train for Luton to Cheltenham

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Luton to Cheltenham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 18m. 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 £14, while a train costs an average of £45.

Distance: 114 km

Compare bus with

Most popular
Coach
Train
Driving

£14

Average Price

Cheapest

£45

Average Price

£22

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 8m

Average total duration

3h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 18m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 17m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Great Western Railway

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 Luton to Cheltenham is a coach with an average price of £14.

This is compared to other travel options from Luton to Cheltenham:

A coach is £31 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Cheltenham costing on average £45.

The fastest way to travel from Luton to Cheltenham is by train with an average journey time of 2h 48m.

Other travel options to Cheltenham take longer:

Coach takes on average 3h 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Cheltenham including taking a coach and train.
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 £14 compared to roughly £22 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £8. The journey takes 3h 38m versus 2h 17m 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

Luton to Cheltenham bus times

The table below shows live departures for Luton to Cheltenham coaches for today, Friday 4 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus18:30 Luton
5h15
23:45 Cheltenham1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus20:15 Luton
4h45
1:00 Cheltenham1 change
Saturday 5 September
FlixBus8:15 Luton
4h40
12:55 Cheltenham0 changesdirect
FlixBus14:00 Luton
5h40
19:40 Cheltenham0 changesdirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Luton to Cheltenham by coach or train

Compare coach and train 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
05 Sept
Sun
06 Sept
Mon
07 Sept
Tue
08 Sept
Wed
09 Sept
Thu
10 Sept
Fri
11 Sept

Why should you book Luton to Cheltenham coaches with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Luton to Cheltenham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Cheltenham.

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 Luton to Cheltenham.
  • 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 Luton to Cheltenham.

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 Luton to Cheltenham.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Luton to Cheltenham.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Luton to Cheltenham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Luton to Cheltenham run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.

The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 114 km distance in 3h 30m.

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
114 km
Average bus duration
3h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
£11
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
3h 30m
First bus
0:05
Last bus
23:55
Cheapest Month
Sept
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Luton to CheltenhamYou can travel by bus between Luton to Cheltenham with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £11. 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 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£11
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
10h 35m
Cheapest National Express Price
£30
National Express frequency
13 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.

What's included in each class

Compare National Express classes and the amenities included in each one.

Standard
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs

Complete guide to Cheltenham

Things to do in Cheltenham

Discover the best of Cheltenham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cheltenham trip today.

  • Must visit

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum

Cheltenham's main museum and art gallery, covering local history, decorative arts and changing exhibitions in a central Regency building.

  • Recommended

Holst Victorian House Spa Museum

Museum in Pittville Pump Room exploring Cheltenham's spa history, with displays on mineral waters, visitors and Regency society.

  • Recommended

Holst Victorian House

Composer Gustav Holst's birthplace, furnished with period rooms and musical displays that bring Victorian Cheltenham to life.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining are pricier than smaller towns, but cheaper than London; local buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
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: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafés: rounding up is fine. Taxis: round up or tip about 10% for good service.

FAQs: Luton to Cheltenham coach

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

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Luton to Cheltenham can start from as little as £11 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Luton to Cheltenham is £14; 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 Luton to Cheltenham is 3h 30m to travel the 114 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 Luton to Cheltenham leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Luton to Cheltenham leaves at 23:55.
There are 4 coaches a day from Luton to Cheltenham which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Luton to Cheltenham, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cheltenham. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Luton and Cheltenham and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Luton , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station, Luton, Station Interchange, Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney) . When arriving in Cheltenham , you can end your route in coach stations like Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station, Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane), Cheltenham.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station, which is located around 2 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cheltenham from Luton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Luton to Cheltenham is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Cheltenham including taking a coach and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Luton to Cheltenham:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Luton to Cheltenham for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Luton to Cheltenham 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.
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 Luton to Cheltenham.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Luton to Cheltenham:
  • 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 Luton to Cheltenham:
  • 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 Luton to Cheltenham. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Luton to Cheltenham with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Luton to Cheltenham with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Luton to Cheltenham with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Luton and Cheltenham

Most Luton to Cheltenham buses use the Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station to Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane). Use this guide to compare Luton and Cheltenham bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Luton
Arrival bus stations in Cheltenham

Which Luton station do buses to Cheltenham leave from?

Buses from Luton to Cheltenham leave from Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station. The station is 3 km from Luton city centre at Luton Airport, Airport Way, Luton LU2 9LU, UK.
Luton, Station InterchangeLuton Station Interchange, Luton LU1 2WG, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton, Station Interchange from Luton city centre

Bus17 · 7m · £2 · every ~2 min

Luton, Station Interchange bus station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafes and fast food options nearby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

WiFi is available at nearby facilities. ATMs are aTM available within short walking distance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton, Station Interchange.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton, Station Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton, Station Interchange: Ramps and accessible routes available for wheelchairs.

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney)Dunstable Rd, Luton, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) from Luton city centre

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) is 3 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:

BusZ · 11m · £2 · every ~15 min
A · 1h 5m · £2 · every ~13 min

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) bus station facilities and services

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) 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 Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney). ATMs are available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney): Limited accessibility.

More options for your journey from Luton to Cheltenham

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

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