Cardiff Bus

Cardiff Bus

The Cardiff Bus Story

Cardiff Bus has been keeping the capital moving for over 120 years. The story began in 1902 when Cardiff Corporation introduced electric trams between Newport Road and the city centre, taking over earlier horse-drawn services that had operated in the city since the 19th century.

Trams remained part of everyday life until 1950, when trolleybuses gradually replaced them. Cardiff was unusual in operating both single and double-deck trolleybuses, particularly around the low bridges near the docks. Motor buses eventually replaced trolleybuses entirely, with the last trolleybus running in 1970.

Over the decades, Cardiff’s buses evolved from open-top vehicles with basic comfort to the fully accessible low-floor fleet seen today. The city’s traditional crimson and cream livery gave way to orange and white in the 1970s, before the now-familiar green branding appeared in 1999.

Today, Cardiff Bus carries around 100,000 passengers every day across approximately 3,000 journeys, covering more than 27,000 miles daily and continuing to provide essential public transport across Wales’ capital city.

Cardiff Bay & Modern Services

Cardiff Bus provides regular and reliable services linking Cardiff Bay with the city centre, Cardiff Central station and surrounding neighbourhoods. It plays an important role in connecting the waterfront with the heart of the capital, making it easy for visitors and locals to travel between the Bay and the wider city.

Whether you’re visiting the Wales Millennium Centre, enjoying Mermaid Quay, walking the Bay Barrage or heading into town for shopping and events, Cardiff Bus offers a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Modern services include live departure information, journey planning via the website and mobile app, contactless and mobile ticketing options, and the ability to save favourite stops and routes for quick access.

Cardiff Bus remains a simple and practical way to explore Cardiff Bay and beyond.