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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Dec 15
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$105
Fastest journey
1 h 54 m
Average duration
2 h
Trains per day
6
Distance
142 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Cardiff will cost around $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Birmingham for Cardiff on Mon, Dec 15, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Dec 15 the direct trains cover the 142 km distance in an average of 2 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 54 m .
On Mon, Dec 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 18 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.
C7505307:30AM1h55
Birmingham New Street (BHM)09:25AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$521One-way
0 transfers
C74848+
L6567906:41AM2h19
Birmingham New Street (BHM)09:00AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$701One-way
1 transfer
C74850+L6568507:42AM2h18
Birmingham New Street (BHM)10:00AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1181One-way
1 transfer
C74850+
P2261807:42AM1h54
Birmingham New Street (BHM)09:36AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1301One-way
1 transfer
C74848+P2261606:41AM1h58
Birmingham New Street (BHM)08:39AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1301One-way
1 transfer
C74850+P2261807:42AM1h54
Birmingham New Street (BHM)09:36AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1301One-way
1 transfer
C7505307:30AM1h55
Birmingham New Street (BHM)09:25AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$521One-way
0 transfers
C75133+P2261908:12AM1h57
Birmingham New Street (BHM)10:09AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1301One-way
1 transfer
C74848+P2261606:41AM1h58
Birmingham New Street (BHM)08:39AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1301One-way
1 transfer
C74850+L6568507:42AM2h18
Birmingham New Street (BHM)10:00AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1181One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Birmingham to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €10, and a train costs an average of €21.
Distance: 88 miles (142 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€62 Average price | €15 Average price Cheapest |
2h 44m Average total duration Fastest 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 36m Average total duration 3h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Birmingham to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Cardiff trains for today, Sunday, December 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 6:08 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C74852+L16761 | On time 9:30 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h58 | 11:28 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C75135+L16762 | On time 10:30 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h04 | 12:34 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C75136+L16763 | On time 11:30 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h04 | 1:34 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C75194+L16764 | On time 12:12 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h23 | 2:35 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C75086+L16766 | On time 2:12 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h00 | 4:12 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C72681+L16767 | On time 2:40 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h54 | 4:34 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C75090+L16813 | On time 4:12 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h18 | 6:30 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C72693+L16769 | On time 4:40 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h55 | 6:35 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Birmingham 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Birmingham to Cardiff?
The best time to book your train from Birmingham to Cardiff is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Birmingham to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Birmingham to Cardiff per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Birmingham to Cardiff.
Trains
from $66Buses
from $10Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Cardiff run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:32, the last at 22:12. The fastest train covers the 88 miles (142 km) distance in 1h 49m.
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 $12 (€10)
Distance 88 miles (142 km) |
Average train duration 2h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 (€21) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 49m |
First train 04:32 |
Last train 22:12 |
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 $12 (€10)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country from Birmingham to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Birmingham and Cardiff from $12 (€10). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 49m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
CrossCountry frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€37)
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
$118 (€94)
West Midlands Trains frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 50m
Cheapest Price
$114 (€91)
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham 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.
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.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Cardiff is 88 miles (142 km).
Yes, a day trip from Birmingham to Cardiff is possible, with a travel time of 1h 49m and a frequency of 8 trains per day. The distance is 88 miles (142 km).
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Cardiff is Birmingham New Street (BHM), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
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.
The train journey from Birmingham to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and passing through historic towns, providing a pleasant and scenic experience.
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Cardiff.
The train from Birmingham to Cardiff takes 1h 49m and runs 8 per day.
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€21), while the average price is around $78 (€62).
The last train from Birmingham to Cardiff leaves at 10:12 PM.
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $12 (€10).
The first train from Birmingham to Cardiff leaves at 4:32 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Birmingham to Cardiff. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Birmingham to Cardiff
Birmingham
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Birmingham is Adderley Park. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Adderley Park for your trip from Birmingham to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Lounge
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday Closed Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 07:00 - 12:00 Friday 07:00 - 10:00 Saturday 12:00 - 14:00 Sunday 09:00 - 14:00
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Adderley Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: Bordesley Green Road - Outside booking hall entrance.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday 07:00 - 10:3012:00 - 18:00 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 07:00 - 11:0012:00 - 18:00 Friday 07:00 - 11:0015:00 - 18:00 Saturday 11:00 - 15:00 Sunday Closed None
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Aston
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: Lichfield Road - under railway bridge at public service bus stop near to bottom of stairs for Platform 1 Walsall bound platform
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMAccessibility
WCLounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 21:00 Saturday 06:15 - 21:00 Sunday 08:15 - 21:00
Distance to city center
12 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- 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 accessible toilets are located on the Concourse.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Closed until further notice.
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: 18 cycle stands plus a cycling compound with 27 spaces available at the front of the station (please see staff for more information)
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Birmingham International
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station opposite the entrance to the long stay car park.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your journey to Cardiff from Birmingham.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Birchgrove
- Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibility
HotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- 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.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Bay
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Birmingham
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