- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Bournemouth to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- $42
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- $73
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 3 h 31 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 3 h 57 m
- Trains on Nov 02
- 6
- Distance
- 124 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bournemouth to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bournemouth to Cardiff will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bournemouth to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
L80065+
G150078:22 AM 4h27 Bournemouth station (BMH) 12:49 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) $42 1 One-way 1 transfer- L80498+G15005
8:02 AM 3h44 Bournemouth station (BMH) 11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) $42 1 One-way 1 transfer - L78765+G15005
8:15 AM 3h31 Bournemouth station (BMH) 11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) $42 1 One-way 1 transfer - L78765+G15005 · G15217 · W34617
8:15 AM 3h55 Bournemouth station (BMH) 12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) $105 1 One-way 3 transfers - L80498+G15005 · G15217 · W34617
8:02 AM 4h08 Bournemouth station (BMH) 12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) $105 1 One-way 3 transfers
- L78765+G15005
8:15 AM 3h31 Bournemouth station (BMH) 11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) $42 1 One-way 1 transfer - L80498+G15005
8:02 AM 3h44 Bournemouth station (BMH) 11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) $42 1 One-way 1 transfer - L78765+G15005 · G15217 · W34617
8:15 AM 3h55 Bournemouth station (BMH) 12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) $105 1 One-way 3 transfers - L80498+G15005 · G15217 · W34617
8:02 AM 4h08 Bournemouth station (BMH) 12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) $105 1 One-way 3 transfers - L80065+G15007
8:22 AM 4h27 Bournemouth station (BMH) 12:49 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) $42 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bournemouth to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bournemouth to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 but you can travel from only $17 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 77 miles (124 km) distance in 2h 44m.
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 $17
Distance 77 miles (124 km) |
Average train duration 3h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 44m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 9:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 3 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 $17
Frequently asked questions about your Bournemouth to Cardiff trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
Train ticket prices from Bournemouth to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61, while the average price is around $101.
The train from Bournemouth to Cardiff takes 2h 44m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Bournemouth to Cardiff is 77 miles (124 km).
The first train from Bournemouth to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The last train from Bournemouth to Cardiff leaves at 9:20 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
Live departures
Bournemouth to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Cardiff trains for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:50 AM Bournemouth | 3h52 | 11:42 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:25 AM Bournemouth | 4h16 | 12:41 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Bournemouth | 4h41 | 1:41 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:40 AM Bournemouth | 4h35 | 3:15 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:50 PM Bournemouth | 3h39 | 5:29 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bournemouth to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or South Western Railway offer trains services from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth 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 CrossCountry or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Bournemouth to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Bournemouth and Cardiff from $17. 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 Great Western Railway Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$61
Great Western Railway frequency
7 a day
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
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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$79
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$165
South Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bournemouth and Cardiff
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a night train from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
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.
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 history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card and mobile payments on buses. Exact fare is not needed if you pay contactless.
- For rail travel around Cardiff, use the official Transport for Wales app for tickets and live times.
Plan your visit to Cardiff
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cardiff.
The train journey from Bournemouth to Cardiff offers a scenic route, especially as it travels through the picturesque English countryside and along the South Coast, providing views of rolling hills and charming villages.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Bournemouth to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Bournemouth to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bournemouth to Cardiff
Most Bournemouth to Cardiff trains use the Bournemouth to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Whitchurch (Cardiff). Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bournemouth
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Bournemouth station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Bournemouth to Cardiff leave from Bournemouth. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bournemouth city centre at Bournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX.
BournemouthBournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth from Bournemouth city centre
Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · $3 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · $3 · every ~74 min
Bournemouth train station facilities and services
Bournemouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bournemouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bournemouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bournemouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bournemouth: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bournemouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bournemouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. Level access to both sides of station from separate entrances. Long and steep ramped subway between platforms - up to 1:8 gradient Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · $3 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
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.
Whitchurch (Cardiff)Whitchurch station, off Pen-y-Dre, Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 1BP
City-centre transport
Getting to Whitchurch (Cardiff) from Cardiff city centre
Whitchurch (Cardiff) is 5 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 12m · $3 · every ~4 min
Cardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 16m · $4 · every ~4 min
Bus400 · 21m · $5 · every ~6 min
24, 25, 101, 21, 102 · 47m · $3 · every ~18 min
Whitchurch (Cardiff) train station facilities and services
Whitchurch (Cardiff) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B Step free access to the platform from Pen y Dre, 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.
Train stations for Bournemouth to Cardiff
Check train stations information for Bournemouth and Cardiff, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Bournemouth that goes to Cardiff is Bournemouth, which connects to Cardiff Central.
Most popular train connections from Bournemouth
More options for your journey from Bournemouth to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Bournemouth
Most popular train connections to Cardiff
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
