- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and archaeology collections. A top cultural stop in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Barnstaple to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$111
Average price
$111
Fastest journey
3 h 41 m
Average duration
3 h 47 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
76 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Barnstaple to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Barnstaple to Cardiff will cost around $111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $111.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Barnstaple to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
C01599 · G154957:22 AM3h57Barnstaple station (BNP)11:19 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1111One-way1 transfer- C01605 · G1549810:35 AM3h41Barnstaple station (BNP)2:16 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1111One-way1 transfer
- C01597 · G15036 · C488216:25 AM3h52Barnstaple station (BNP)10:17 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1111One-way2 transfers
- C01601 · G154968:35 AM3h42Barnstaple station (BNP)12:17 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1111One-way1 transfer
- C01606+
G01080+W3541811:35 AM4h01Barnstaple station (BNP)3:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1121One-way2 transfers
- C01605 · G1549810:35 AM3h41Barnstaple station (BNP)2:16 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1111One-way1 transfer
- C01603+G00865+G149399:35 AM3h41Barnstaple station (BNP)1:16 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1121One-way2 transfers
- C01601 · G154968:35 AM3h42Barnstaple station (BNP)12:17 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1111One-way1 transfer
- C01597 · G15036 · C488216:25 AM3h52Barnstaple station (BNP)10:17 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1111One-way2 transfers
- C01599 · G154957:22 AM3h57Barnstaple station (BNP)11:19 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1111One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Barnstaple to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Barnstaple to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $50, and a train costs an average of $63.
Distance: 47 miles (76 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$92 Average price | $53 Average price Cheapest | $46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Barnstaple to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $53 (€43).
This is compared to other travel options from Barnstaple to Cardiff:
A bus is $39 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Barnstaple to Cardiff costing on average $92 (€75).
The fastest way to travel from Barnstaple to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Barnstaple and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Barnstaple to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $92 (€75) compared to roughly $46 (€37) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-46.20 (€-37.40). The journey takes 3h 27m versus 2h 25m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Barnstaple to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Barnstaple to Cardiff trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:35 AM Barnstaple | 3h41 | 2:16 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Barnstaple to Cardiff by bus or train
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Barnstaple to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Barnstaple to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Barnstaple to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 (€51) but you can travel from only $50 (€40) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 47 miles (76 km) distance in 3h 41m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $50 (€40)
Distance 47 miles (76 km) |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 (€51) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 41m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 21 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $50 (€40)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Barnstaple to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Barnstaple and Cardiff from $50 (€40). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€51)
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 22m
Cheapest Price
$131 (€106)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
7 a day
Complete guide to Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum showing Welsh historic buildings, crafts, and daily life. One of Wales's most celebrated cultural attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Local history museum covering Cardiff's growth from small town to capital city, with interactive displays and social history exhibits.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Waterfront district with modern public spaces, harbourside walks, major landmarks, and a lively atmosphere.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large riverside park beside the castle, ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxing near the city centre.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Network of elegant Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades, famous for architecture and independent businesses.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Toasted bread topped with a rich savoury cheese sauce, often flavoured with mustard or ale. A classic Welsh dish strongly associated with Cardiff pubs and cafes.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausages
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is a distinctive meat-free regional speciality.
Pasture Cardiff
Popular steakhouse focused on wood-fired cooking, quality Welsh beef, and a lively upscale atmosphere close to the city centre.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Well-known restaurant at HMP Cardiff offering refined dining with a social mission, using seasonal ingredients in a calm, professional setting.
Pettigrew Tea Rooms
Charming tea room near Bute Park, loved for Welsh cakes, afternoon tea, and homemade bakes in a relaxed heritage atmosphere.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Dining and transport are manageable, while central hotels and nightlife cost more on busy weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxis. Not expected in pubs or cafés, but small change is appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.50
To the city center
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tap in and tap out with a contactless bank card on Transport for Wales rail services where pay-as-you-go is available, but most local buses require buying a ticket via the operator or app.
- The Transport for Wales app is the main official tool for rail tickets and live updates in Cardiff; check bus operator tickets separately before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Barnstaple to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barnstaple to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Barnstaple to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $63 (€51), while the average price is around $92 (€75).
The train from Barnstaple to Cardiff takes 3h 41m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Barnstaple to Cardiff is 47 miles (76 km).
The first train from Barnstaple to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The last train from Barnstaple to Cardiff leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
The train station in Barnstaple that goes to Cardiff is Barnstaple station (BNP), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Barnstaple to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $50 (€40).
The train journey from Barnstaple to Cardiff offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of Devon and Somerset, with glimpses of the Exmoor National Park and rolling countryside.
A day trip from Barnstaple to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 41m. However, there are 6 train trips per day available for this route. The distance between Barnstaple and Cardiff is 47 miles (76 km).
In Cardiff, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Attend performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, or take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay. For adventure, visit Cardiff International White Water for rafting and kayaking. Shop and dine at Cardiff Market. Discover history at Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore art and culture at the National Museum Cardiff, and relax in Bute Park. Cardiff Bay also offers dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
A visit of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore Cardiff's main attractions, such as Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and Cardiff Bay, while allowing time for leisure and dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
Since neither Barnstaple nor Cardiff are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Barnstaple to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Barnstaple to Cardiff
Barnstaple
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Barnstaple is Barnstaple. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Barnstaple for your trip from Barnstaple to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:15 - 17:50 Saturday 06:15 - 17:50 Sunday 09:20 - 16:40
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
- Station Masters Cafe
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step free Category A station - step free access available to the platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1. The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Barnstaple
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from Barnstaple.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Most popular train connections from Barnstaple
More options for your journey from Barnstaple to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Barnstaple
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