Bus from London Stansted Airport STN to Cambridge – Timetable and Tickets

Tavsiye: Take the off-peak bus from London Stansted Airport (STN) to Cambridge for reliable arrival times, lower fares, and fewer delays. This option serves both central Cambridge and nearby areas valuable for arts events and university visits, with direct connections to Trumpington and other campus sites.

Timetable at a glance: Starting from 05:45, departures run roughly every 60-90 minutes. Off-peak daytime services keep travel predictable, while peak-period runs add time due to traffic. Typical trip time is 70-85 minutes, with most lines stopping at essential nodes and a few limited stops to speed up the trip. For arrival, aim for Cambridge bus station or the main stops near the university.

Tickets and where to buy: Prices typically range from 9 to 15 GBP for a single journey; off-peak returns offer better value. Buy online through official links or at the STN desk before boarding. If you have personalized preferences (student discounts, group rates) or special needs, check the links for the best option. Their cancellation policy varies by operator, so review before you purchase.

Maximize value with fewest stops: To reach central Cambridge with the fewest transfers, choose services labeled direct Stansted–Cambridge, and verify starting times that align with your prior plans and campus arrivals. If you travel from Trumpington or the university area, check which stop serves your destination best and use off-peak departures to save time and money.

Plan with personalized options: Save preferred routes, set alerts, and compare tickets via the operator pages. Their tools help you tailor a plan aligned with your arrival time and study schedule. A well-chosen combination of tickets and times lets you combine academic visits with arts engagements, maximizing your stay while minimizing stress.

STN to Cambridge: Typical timetable, service frequency, and journey duration

Book a morning coach between 07:00 and 09:30 for a stress-free ride from STN to Cambridge, with easy connections to Cambridge destinations. The service provides reliable departures and clear platform signage to keep you on track.

Typical schedules show a coach every 60–90 minutes on weekdays, with a similar cadence on Saturdays; Sundays see longer gaps. This pattern offers ease for those experiencing busy days and helps with planning.

Travel time ranges from about 1h20m to 1h50m, depending on stops and traffic. On Tuesday evenings or during peak periods, expect the upper end of this window.

At STN, departures gather at the dedicated coach platform near the terminal; signs make it easy to navigate.

Ticket types span standard, saver, and luxury options; providers such as National Express and regional operators offer the service. For each person, you can click to book and store tickets on your phone for a stress-free check-in.

From Luton or other countries, direct services reach Cambridge with minimal transfers. Further options include rail connections if you prefer a multi-modal plan that reach your destination efficiently.

Planning tips and support: compare schedules, check Tuesday departures ahead of time, and keep an eye on changes; using a mobile ticket streamlines the process.

Those seeking additional options can navigate between destinations with multiple providers, including luxury and standard coaches; this flexibility makes it easier to reach Cambridge without hitches.

Ticketing options for Stansted to Cambridge: online, mobile, and on-site purchases

Book ahead on the official website to secure the cheapest fares and guarantee a seat for your Stansted to Cambridge trip.

Online purchases let you compare options, choose economy or comfort seating, and have tickets booked before you travel. On the form you enter the date, number of passengers, and preferences, then pick a scheduling window that fits your plan and duration expectations. If you miss a preferred slot, you can often switch to a later time, preventing disappointment ahead of your trip. If you already know your preferences, save them in your account to speed future bookings.

Online and mobile: fast, flexible, and commuter-friendly

Use the website or the mobile app to book in minutes. Tickets are issued as a mobile pass or printable form, so you can show on your screen or print at home. For travelers from the western regions, online booking is especially convenient. Ahead of busy Monday mornings you’ll see a generous range of times between Stansted and Cambridge stations. If you’re traveling with a suitcase, pick a schedule with space for luggage and choose the main shuttle options that suit your needs. This approach often yields the cheapest prices and helps you avoid the disappointment of sold-out services.

On-site purchases: planning on the spot

On-site desks at Stansted Airport and Cambridge stations offer last-minute tickets if you have flexible planning. Availability can be limited during peak windows, so arrive early to have more choices and avoid miss events. Cards and cash are typically accepted, and agents can help you apply discounts or special offers if you have a valid form of eligibility. You’ll pay a bit more than online for some trips, but you gain more flexibility to adapt to changes in your schedule and preferences. If you already know your ideal duration and prefer a direct shuttle with the least fuss, the on-site option can be a good fit. Bring your suitcase and you’ll be ready for a smooth ride with short duration between Stansted and Cambridge.

Prices and ticket types for STN–Cambridge buses: single, return, and pass options

Get the best value by choosing a return ticket or a flexible pass rather than buying a single ticket each way. A return typically saves compared with two singles, and a day or multi-trip pass offers convenient options for travelers seeking more flexibility.

Single tickets: Below are typical price ranges. Fares usually fall between £8 and £12 per ride, depending on operator, time of day, and how you buy (online, at Stansted, or on the bus). Online or non-advance purchases can secure a lower price in some cases, while on-the-day fares are often at the higher end. The ticket covers the direct ride to Cambridge destination stops and allows validation on arrival; you cannot use the same ticket for a return without an additional fare. For faster confirmation, keep your e-ticket or receipt handy and you can travel with secure payment methods such as contactless or mobile wallets.

Return tickets: Returning typically offers savings of roughly 15–25% versus two singles. Expect prices in the £14–£22 range, influenced by operator, day of week, and whether you book non-advance or on the day. A return is ideal for a planned visit to Cambridge; it locks in the destination and reduces the need to queue twice. If you miss the bus, cancellation policies vary–some operators allow changes or refunds within specific hours; check the conditions at purchase to avoid penalties.

Pass options: For frequent travels, a day pass, a 3-trip pack, or a weekly pass can be convenient ve flexible. Prices differ by provider but typical ranges include £18–£30 for a day pass and £30–£60 for a 3- to 7-trip bundle. Passes include multiple trips within a set period, so you can hop around local streets in Cambridge or connect to other destinations without purchasing new tickets each time. If you seek the ideal option for regular travels, look for passes that includes transfer credits and are valid for your chosen hours.

Consider conditions like hours of operation; the busiest hours are morning and late afternoon when commuters travel to the city. Check each operator’s confirmation email for the Hedef and any cancelled statuses, and be aware that some routes offer non-advance tickets that can save money if you can travel at less busy times. A flexible pass works well for local travels and is often comfortable for groups or families. If you plan a street stop in Cambridge, confirm the stop list to avoid detours you cannot kaçının.

Below are quick tips to secure the best deal: compare prices online, read the conditions of each ticket, and watch for hours changes on weekends when schedules shift. If a fare is cancelled by the operator, you typically receive a refund or credit, depending on the policy and whether you bought a non-advance fare. For most travellers, the most convenient choice remains a return or a day pass that includes the Cambridge Hedef and is easy to use on multiple trips.

Where to board at Stansted: terminal, bus stops, signage, and accessibility

Head to the Bus & Coach Station just outside the terminal and follow the clear “Bus” and “Coach” signs to Cambridge-bound shuttles. Use the display boards for the latest schedules, and arrive at the bay at least 10 minutes prior to take-off to avoid delays; in practice, waiting times are often shorter than 5 minutes during off-peak hours. If you booked a Cambridge service, staff at the desk or help points will point you to your bay and explain the exact time you take the shuttle, with cancellations or rebooking options shown below on the screen or at the desk.

Signage and boarding basics

Signage is bold and consistent, with overhead panels naming operators, destinations, and bay numbers. Follow floor arrows toward the Bus & Coach Station and step out to the outside stops where shuttles and coaches park. If you need assistance, use the help points; staff can explain your bay and provide directions in real time. For disabled travellers, bays are designed for step-free access, and staff can assist with boarding when requested in advance or at the desk below the signs. If you have a private group, consider grouping options such as GroupSave or cost-effective returns, which you can book online or at the station desk.

Connections from Heathrow or Bournemouth are common for travellers heading to Cambridge, and many schedules integrate with Stansted stops to improve door-to-door options. Check the board for transfer times, and take the quickest route shown on the screen; you can take the direct Cambridge shuttle without switching, or choose a cheaper option with a transfer if you’re taking a tight budget. The signage below the canopy also highlights where to cancel or modify bookings, and explains how to collect tickets if you arrived with a booked mobile or paper ticket.

Accessibility, tickets, and money-saving options

Accessibility features include step-free paths to all bus stops, clearly marked disabled seating areas on shuttles, and nearby accessible toilets. If you require help getting to the vehicle, request assistance at least prior to arrival; airport staff can arrange wheelchair support and guide you to the bay. For door-to-door service, consider a private shuttle that can collect you at the terminal door and deliver you directly to Cambridge–this option is often the most convenient for groups or travellers with heavy luggage. Booking ahead offers opportunities to secure larger luggage allowances and reserved seating, which helps when travelling with disabled passengers or in larger groups.

Ticketing is explained at the desk and on the official site; bought tickets can be cancelled with a small fee, and schedules change seasonally, so check below for the latest updates. If you need to split costs, GroupSave discounts apply to qualifying groups, making the trip more cost-effective than solo travel. For those taking multiple legs or combining with Essex or Abbey routes, flexible tickets provide a smooth, private, or shared shuttle experience without stress. Always carry your booking reference and a mobile copy if possible, and you’ll have a helpful, streamlined start to your journey from Stansted to Cambridge.

Cambridge arrival and onward connections: city stops, center access, and rail links

Take the Stansted bus to Cambridge and head to Cambridge station; book a connection that lands you near the central rail hub to keep transfers minimal and stress-free. Use express routes where available and check live status to pick the fastest option, giving you freedom to plan the rest of your day.

Center access and city stops: From Cambridge station, the Drummer Street Interchange serves most city routes; a walk to the centre takes about 20–25 minutes, or you can ride a bus to Market Square in 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Notice the interfaces on the page, and navigate using the map features to pick between options that suit your visit. Travelers from different countries often appreciate clear signage and straightforward boarding.

Rail links: The fastest rail links from Cambridge go to London King’s Cross in around 50–70 minutes; there are regular services to Ely, Norwich, and Ipswich; Essex towns are reachable with a change at London or a regional hub. If Waterloo is part of your plan, route via central London and switch there.

Tip and practicalities: Before you travel, compare routes on Google and the operators’ pages; available tickets include single and return options, and you can book an integrated fare where offered. If you are arriving from an airport, this setup still keeps you on track. Engineering works can affect status and cases; notice updates on the station page and consider leaving extra time. The system already helps with help desks and clear signage, and your account can store preferences to speed future visits. The plan is made to be simple, with fastest routes guiding your steps.

Departing from Cambridge: last buses, peak times, and alternatives if sold out

Reserve the last Cambridge-to-Stansted bus in advance via the operator’s app or timetable, and keep track of live status on the day to avoid delays.

Last buses and duration: Direct services from Cambridge to Stansted Airport typically run late, with last departures around 23:00–23:30 on weekdays and often close to midnight at weekends. A direct on-board journey takes approximately 60–75 minutes; allow extra time if the coach makes stops along the route or traffic builds near the airport.

Peak times to plan around: Notable surges occur 06:30–09:30 in the morning and 16:00–19:00 in the late afternoon, when airport traffic and local travel intersect. If you travel during these windows, expect bus occupancy to rise and occasional delays; having a backup plan helps you keep to your travel schedule.

Alternatives if sold out:

• Check for another public service on the same route later in the day or the next day; some operators release seats closer to departure, so a quick refresh can enable a spot.
• Public transport mix: take a Cambridge bus to a rail station and continue by train to Stansted or London, then switch to Stansted Express. Duration is typically 1h30–2h depending on connections.
• Rail option via London: Cambridge → London (Liverpool Street or King’s Cross) and then Stansted Express to the airport; useful if direct buses are sold out, though timings vary.
• Private shuttle or taxi: pre-booked door-to-door options provide guaranteed space, especially for late flights; costs depend on time and demand but offer predictable timing.
• Trumpington option: use a local Park & Ride or shuttle from Trumpington to connect with later airport-bound services; this can help when the direct Cambridge service is unavailable.

Real-time planning tips: verify arrivals and delays on the go, enable push updates from the timetable app, and show flexibility with your travel window. If you experience a delay, a quick switch to a nearby hub or an alternate operator can save time and keep your journey to the airport on track.