Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) train with Great Western Railway

Thu, Sep 17
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
South Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
South Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT)

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17

Cheapest price on Sep 17

$74

Average ticket price on Sep 17

$118

Fastest journey on Sep 17

2 h 25 m

Average journey duration on Sep 17

2 h 31 m

Trains on Sep 17

10

Distance

212 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) will cost around $118 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) without transferring at least once.

  • Great Western RailwayG15001+South Western RailwayL79353
    6:28 AM3h52
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    10:20 AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
    $741One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayG15043+South Western RailwayL80688
    9:49 AM3h18
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:07 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
    $921One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayG15043+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo
    9:49 AM2h33
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:22 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
    $951One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayW34974+South Western RailwayL79375
    8:27 AM3h49
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:16 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
    $1111One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayG15003+South Western RailwayL79364
    7:27 AM3h49
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    11:16 AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)
    $1111One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $27 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 9m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, while a train costs an average of $98.

Distance: 131 miles (212 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$98

Average price

$27

Average price

Cheapest

$99

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 24m

Average total duration

3h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 23m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT):

A bus is $71 (€58) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) costing on average $98 (€80).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) is by train with an average journey time of 2h 39m.

Other travel options to London Waterloo (WAT) take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 54m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff Central (CDF) and London Waterloo (WAT) including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 44m faster (2h 39m by train vs 3h 23m by car) and roughly $0.85 (€0.69) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($98 (€80) vs $99 (€81)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) trains for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayW35431+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo
On time
5:07 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h45
7:52 AM London Waterloo (WAT)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35161+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo
On time
5:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h27
8:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15040+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo
On time
6:24 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h28
8:52 AM London Waterloo (WAT)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15001+South Western RailwayL793536:28 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h52
10:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35166+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo
On time
6:51 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h36
9:27 AM London Waterloo (WAT)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35167+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo7:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h25
9:48 AM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15003+South Western RailwayL793647:27 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h49
11:16 AM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35169+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo7:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h31
10:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15041+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo8:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h32
10:50 AM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW34974+South Western RailwayL793758:27 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h49
12:16 PM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15042+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo8:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h34
11:12 AM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35432+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo9:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h37
11:56 AM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15043+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo9:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h33
12:22 PM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35178+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo10:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h29
12:47 PM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15044+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Waterloo10:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h35
1:25 PM London Waterloo (WAT)1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) 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.

Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23

Why should you book Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).

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 South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).
  • 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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 (€47) but you can travel from only $7 (€5) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 07:38, the last at 19:22. The fastest train covers the 131 miles (212 km) distance in 2h 8m.

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 $7 (€5)
Distance
131 miles (212 km)
Average train duration
2h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$57 (€47)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 8m
First train
7:38 AM
Last train
7:22 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
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 $7 (€5)

Train companies: Great Western Railway, South Western Railway from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) trainsGreat Western Railway, South Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff Central (CDF) and London Waterloo (WAT) from $7 (€5). 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 8m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$57 (€47)
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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

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 28m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$73 (€60)
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

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT)

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) 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 London Waterloo (WAT), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57 (€47), while the average price is around $98 (€80).
The train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) takes 2h 8m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) leaves at 7:38 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) is 131 miles (212 km).
The last train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) leaves at 7:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€5).
The train journey from Cardiff Central to London Waterloo offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with scenic stretches featuring the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of South Wales and the English countryside, especially around the areas of the Severn Tunnel and the Thames Valley.
A day trip from Cardiff Central to London Waterloo is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 8m and the distance is 131 miles (212 km). However, trains run 6 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT).
Since neither Cardiff Central (CDF) nor London Waterloo (WAT) 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 London Waterloo (WAT) include Woking, Guildford, Walton-on-Thames, Weybridge, Fleet.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) 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.
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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT)

Most Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) trains use the Cardiff Central to Heathrow Terminal 5 station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff Central (CDF) and London Waterloo (WAT) train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in London
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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 · $2 · 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.

More options for your journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT)

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from London Waterloo (WAT) and Cardiff Central (CDF)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomCardiff Central (CDF) to London Waterloo (WAT) train

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone