4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Manchester
- Cheapest price on 13 Nov
- $44
- Average ticket price on 13 Nov
- $104
- Fastest journey on 13 Nov
- 3 h 18 m
- Average journey duration on 13 Nov
- 3 h 21 m
- Trains on 13 Nov
- 14
- Distance
- 231 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Manchester will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $44.
On Fri, 13 Nov, we found 14 trains from Cardiff to Manchester, including 7 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 231 km distance in an average of 3 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 18 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 25 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.
Y627305:48 AM 3h25 Cardiff Central (CDF) 9:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $44 1 One-way 0 changes- G38945
6:46 AM 3h27 Cardiff Central (CDF) 10:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $44 1 One-way 0 changes - G38943
4:35 AM 3h38 Cardiff Central (CDF) 8:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $44 1 One-way 0 changes - G38947
7:53 AM 3h20 Cardiff Central (CDF) 11:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $44 1 One-way 0 changes - G38949
9:53 AM 3h20 Cardiff Central (CDF) 1:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $93 1 One-way 0 changes
- G38967
8:55 AM 3h18 Cardiff Central (CDF) 12:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $124 1 One-way 0 changes - G38975
10:53 AM 3h20 Cardiff Central (CDF) 2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $124 1 One-way 0 changes - G38949
9:53 AM 3h20 Cardiff Central (CDF) 1:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $93 1 One-way 0 changes - G38947
7:53 AM 3h20 Cardiff Central (CDF) 11:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $44 1 One-way 0 changes - Y62730
5:48 AM 3h25 Cardiff Central (CDF) 9:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) $44 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Manchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 but you can travel from only $15 by coach.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:37, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 231 km distance in 3h 1m.
Distance 231 km |
Average train duration 3h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 3h 1m |
First train 2:37 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 21 days |
Live departures
Cardiff to Manchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Manchester trains for today, Thursday, 12 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G38957 | On time 3:51 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h22 | 7:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
Y63472+ W33863 | On time 4:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h28 | 7:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
 W35435+ G00894 | On time 4:21 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h38 | 7:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G38999 | On time 4:55 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h18 | 8:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G38959 | On time 5:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 9:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y63476+W34129 | On time 6:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h21 | 9:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G66813 · G00912 | On time 6:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h45 | 10:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G39004 | On time 6:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h28 | 10:21 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y62764 | On time 8:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h27 | 11:37 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday, 13 November | |||||
| G38943 | 4:35 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h38 | 8:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y62730 | 5:48 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h25 | 9:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W45135+G66716 | 6:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h49 | 9:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G15040+G66716 | 6:24 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h35 | 9:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G38945 | 6:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h27 | 10:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y61953+G66721 | 7:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h49 | 10:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| W35167+G66721 | 7:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h36 | 10:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G38947 | 7:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 11:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G15041+G00854 | 8:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h41 | 11:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G38967 | 8:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h18 | 12:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W35432+G66730 | 9:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h40 | 12:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G38949 | 9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 1:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W35178+G66735 | 10:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h41 | 1:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 change | |
| G38975 | 10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester.
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Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Manchester.
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Cardiff to Manchester trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Manchester from $15. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Manchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
FAQs: Cardiff to Manchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Manchester by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Manchester
Most Cardiff to Manchester trains use the Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Manchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre
Cathays train station facilities and services
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which Manchester station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Getting to Manchester Piccadilly from Manchester city centre
Manchester Piccadilly train station facilities and services
Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Getting to Manchester Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester Airport train station facilities and services
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Getting to Manchester Oxford Road from Manchester city centre
Manchester Oxford Road train station facilities and services
Manchester Oxford Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Manchester and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Manchester
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