Birmingham
Cambridge

Birmingham to Cambridge: Cheapest Travel Options

Bus: Choose Megabus for affordable tickets from Birmingham to Cambridge starting at just £15.99. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 2h 25m trip.

Over 3 schedules for your journey.

Birmingham to Cambridge bus times

Check out the cheapest buses departing from Birmingham to Cambridge

CompanyDeparture time/Arrival timeDeparture Station/Arrival StationTransport TypePriceView schedule
Megabus
2h 25m
Megabus
£15.99
Megabus
2h 20m
Megabus
£15.99
National Express
4h
National Express
$21.5

Bus Birmingham to Cambridge

It takes an average of 2h 55m to travel from Birmingham to Cambridge by bus, over a distance of around 141 km. There are normally 3 buses per day traveling from Birmingham to Cambridge and tickets for this journey start from £15.99 when you book in advance.

Distance141 km
Price£15.99
Frequency3
Fastest2h 20m

What companies travel from Birmingham to Cambridge?

Whether you're seeking speed, comfort, affordability, or a blend of all, our detailed overview covers the key players in the industry. Get insights into schedules, booking tips, and amenities offered by each company, ensuring your journey between these iconic cities is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Best Travel Options

Exploring travel options from Birmingham to Cambridge reveals distinct aspects to consider among the different modes of transportation:

Travel Time: On average, trains make the jaunt in 2 to 3 hours, perfect for quick travel. Driving takes roughly the same time, though it can vary with traffic. Buses extend to approximately 4 to 6 hours.

Cost: Opting for a bus tends to be more wallet-friendly, especially with early bookings. Trains offer competitive rates with advanced purchases, whereas car travel introduces variable costs like petrol and parking.

Experience: Trains provide a swift, carefree journey suitable for commuters or business travellers. Buses deliver a scenic, economical route for budget travellers, while cars cater to those seeking flexibility and personal space.

🧳 Covering a distance of 158 km (98 miles), this relatively short trip invites you to explore the rest of our page for more detailed insights into your travel choices.

Best Travel Options

Bus vs Train

Comparing bus and train travel from Birmingham to Cambridge reveals distinct advantages for each mode:

Cost Efficiency: Bus travel boasts a wallet-friendly edge, perfect for those seeking to journey on a budget while enjoying comfortable amenities.

Travel Duration: Both bus and train trips span roughly 2-3 hours; however, trains may edge ahead with punctuality and fewer on-the-road delays.

Onboard Experience: The social ambiance of bus travels contrasts with the train’s varied settings for interaction or quiet time, matched with comparably pleasing scenery.

Bus vs Train

Frequently asked questions

Embark on a seamless journey from Birmingham to Cambridge. Discover efficient routes, ticket options, and travel tips. Uncover the charms of Cambridge with ease from the heart of Birmingham. Your essential travel guide awaits.

route faq

Cheapest Travel Options

Navigating the route from Birmingham to Cambridge is a breeze, with National Express and Megabus offering the most wallet-friendly travel options. Prices are a delight, starting at just £5 and rarely exceeding £20, ensuring your journey is both economical and comfortable. National Express leads with direct services and comfort features like complimentary Wi-Fi, while Megabus is renowned for its super savings.

Tailor your trip to Cambridge to match your specific needs, whether you’re a family with kids in search of spacious seating, a business traveler prioritizing productivity en route, a frugal backpacker, or coordinating a group adventure. With the variety of operators and cost-effective solutions available, you’ll find the perfect balance between affordability and convenience, ensuring a journey that’s as pleasant as it is prudent.

Cheapest Travel Options
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Cheap tickets from Birmingham to Cambridge

The price of tickets from Birmingham to Cambridge is cheaper for a one-way standard class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

Book in advance

Most of the companies release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper tickets from Birmingham to Cambridge by booking early.

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the services are also popular commuter services, lots of companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider traveling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting transport

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting transport. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Travel Tips

The best tips from our team for your next trip

"Research sightseeing opportunities along your route, such as landmarks, tourist attractions, or scenic routes, and plan your itinerary accordingly."

"Choosing the right seat, such as one with extralegroom or a window seat, can help maximize comfort during your journey."

"Check the pet policies of the bus or train company you are traveling with, and make sure your pet is allowed on board."

"Learn basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings or common phrases, to show respect and build connections with locals."

"Keep your valuables like cash, passport, andimportant documents in a secure place, like a neck wallet or a money belt.Avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry."

"Choose a mode of transportation that allows you to work comfortably, such as a train with spacious seating or a bus with Wi-Fi."

"Research the local culture and customs of the places you will be traveling through, and learn about the history, traditions, and values of the people."

"Bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey."

"Traveling during off-peak hours can save moneyon bus and train fares, as prices tend to be lower during non-peak times."

"Arrive on time for your bus or train, and be respectful of other passengers' schedules."

"Consider choosing eco-friendly transport options like buses or trains instead of driving alone in a car, which can help reduce your carbon footprint."

Travel Hotspots

Discover the Top Transit Hubs

Discover the top transit hubs with our comprehensive list of the busiest and most important bus and train stations. Find out which stations offer the best connections and travel options for your next trip. Plan your trip with ease and efficiency by exploring our guide to the key transit hubs.