Find London to Darlington (Durham) bus tickets
Why Choose Bus from London to Darlington (Durham)
Traveling from London to Darlington (Durham) presents an array of transportation options, each with unique benefits. Choosing the right mode of transport can greatly enhance your travel experience, balancing comfort, cost, and convenience.
💰 Cost-Effectiveness
pros
- Bus fares range from £19 to £27, making it a more affordable choice compared to train and flight options.
- With no hidden baggage fees, the total cost remains lower, especially for budget-conscious travelers.
cons
- Travel time of approximately 6h 10m can be longer than the quicker train journeys.
🛎️ Direct and Convenient Service
pros
- Buses depart directly from Victoria Coach Station, a central location in London, ensuring easy access.
- The direct route to Dolphin Centre means fewer transfer hassles compared to train connections.
cons
- Limited to three departures a day, which may restrict flexibility in scheduling.
⭐ Scenic Views
pros
- The bus route offers scenic views of the English countryside, enhancing your travel experience.
- Travelers can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere onboard, making it a great opportunity for sightseeing and photography.
cons
- Bus services may have to navigate through traffic, potentially affecting the overall travel experience.
highlights:
While economical and scenic, plan your trip around the limited bus schedules.
Bus travel is significantly cheaper than trains and flights, providing great value.
The convenience of direct routes minimizes travel disruption and ensures a smoother journey.
Enjoyable scenic views make the extended travel time worthwhile for those who appreciate nature.
Bus Options from London to Darlington (Durham)
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct | Megabus UK | Victoria Coach Station, London | Dolphin Centre, Darlington | 09:00, 12:00, 16:00 | 15:10, 18:10, 22:10 | Three times daily | 6h 10m | £ 19-27 | |
| Connecting | National Express | Victoria Coach Station, London | Dolphin Centre, Darlington | 07:30, 14:30 | 13:45, 21:15 | Twice daily | 8h 15m | £ 25-35 | York |
| Connecting | FlixBus | Victoria Coach Station, London | Dolphin Centre, Darlington | 08:00, 15:00 | 13:30, 20:30 | Twice daily | 7h 30m | £ 22-30 | Leeds |
Comparison of Bus Operators from London to Darlington (Durham)
Comparing bus operators servicing the route from London to Darlington is essential for travelers seeking optimal options based on price, amenities, and accessibility. Each operator offers unique policies and features, making it important to choose one that best suits your needs for comfort, budget, and travel experience.
| Criteria | Megabus UK | National Express | FlixBus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | £ 19 - £ 27 | £ 20 - £ 30 | £ 18 - £ 25 |
| pricing policies | |||
| refund policy | Non-refundable tickets are available, but customers can change their plans for a fee. | Tickets can be refunded up to 24 hours before departure with a 20% fee. | Refundable tickets are available for an additional charge. |
| Ticket Changes | Ticket changes can be made up to 2 hours prior to departure with a change fee applicable. | Changes can be made without additional fees up to 1 hour before travel. | You can change your ticket for free up to 15 minutes prior to departure. |
| discounts | Students and seniors can receive a 10% discount on selected tickets. | Group bookings for 5 or more receive a 15% discount. | 20% off for students and military personnel. |
| amenities | Free Wi-Fi, On-board restrooms, Power outlets at seats, Air conditioning | Free Wi-Fi, On-board refreshments available for purchase, Comfortable reclining seats, Power outlets at seats | Free Wi-Fi, Restroom facilities, Snack vending machines on board, Extra legroom seats |
| baggage allowance | |||
| free allowance | One piece of standard baggage (up to 20kg) and one small personal item. | One suitcase up to 20kg and one handbag. | One larger bag (up to 20kg) and one small bag free. |
| Additional Fees | Additional baggage is charged at £5 per item. | Excess baggage charges apply at £10 per additional item. | Charges of £8 for each additional large bag. |
| accessibility | The bus services are wheelchair accessible and provide assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. | Fully accessible buses with designated seating areas for people with disabilities. | Accessible services with priority seating and ramps available. |
In summary, each operator—Megabus UK, National Express, and FlixBus—offers a compelling mix of price, amenities, and policies that cater to different passenger needs. While Megabus UK provides the most economical choice, National Express stands out for flexibility in ticket changes and discounts for group travel. FlixBus offers a balance of affordability and services. Travelers should consider their priorities, such as budget and comfort, to select the best option for their journey from London to Darlington.
Bus Stops and Stations from London to Darlington (Durham)
Knowing about the bus stops and stations is crucial for a smooth travel experience between London and Darlington.
Main Bus Stations in London
Victoria Coach Station
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options including cafés and vending machines
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features like ramps and elevators
Transportation Links
- Buses: Numerous city and regional services
- Metro: Close to Victoria and Pimlico stations
- Trains: Access to nearby train stations like Victoria Station
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time to navigate the station.
- Be aware of security procedures including bag checks.
- Avoid peak hours from 8 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 6 PM for a less crowded experience.
- Explore nearby amenities like shops and restaurants if you have time to spare.
Main Bus Stations in Darlington (Durham)
Darlington Bus Station
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters
- Small café for refreshments
- Free Wi-Fi
- Accessibility features including ramps
- Information desk for traveler assistance
Transportation Links
- Buses: Local and regional bus services available
- Trains: Direct access to Darlington Railway Station
- Taxi services: Readily available outside the station
- Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled arrival time.
- Familiarize yourself with local transport options for onward travel.
- Peak hours can occur between 4 PM and 6 PM, plan accordingly.
- Consider visiting nearby shops if you have extra time after arrival.
En Route Stops
Northampton
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas
- Café options
York
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas
- Food vending machines
Durham
facilities
- Information desk
- Waiting areas
- Snack options
Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations and stops can significantly enhance your travel experience between London and Darlington, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Travel Tips
⛰ Choose the Right Time to Travel
Midweek journeys often offer less crowded buses and better fare prices. Avoid weekends if you prefer a peaceful ride and want to enjoy a quieter experience.
📍 Enjoy Scenic Stops
Take advantage of the scheduled stops at places like the historic city of York, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Plan short visits to stretch your legs and explore.
🚍 Bring Snacks and Entertainment
While many buses have onboard amenities, it's a good idea to pack your favorite snacks and pre-download podcasts or audiobooks. The journey can be longer than expected due to traffic, so having entertainment handy will enhance your experience.
🎭 Be Mindful of Local Customs
When traveling to Darlington, remember it’s a friendly town. Inquire about local customs or greetings to engage with residents. A friendly 'hello' or 'thank you' goes a long way in building rapport.
🏛 Utilize Bus Amenities
Some buses on this route offer free Wi-Fi and charging ports. Make sure to plan ahead to use these amenities efficiently, and keep your devices charged for the journey.