Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) train with Great Western Railway

Mon, Jun 01
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Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
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Deutsche Bahn
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Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD)

Showing times and prices for Jun 01

Cheapest price

$64

Average price

$146

Fastest journey

4 h 19 m

Average duration

4 h 23 m

Trains per day

14

Distance

241 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) 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 Stansted Airport (SSD) will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Great Western RailwayW35178+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP66432
    10:18 AM4h37
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:55 PMStansted Airport (SSD)
    $641One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35431+Elizabeth lineC37666+Greater AngliaP66249
    5:07 AM4h32
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    9:39 AMStansted Airport (SSD)
    $691One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35178+Elizabeth lineC38084+Greater AngliaP66426
    10:18 AM4h19
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:37 PMStansted Airport (SSD)
    $851One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35432+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP02927
    9:19 AM4h36
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:55 PMStansted Airport (SSD)
    $851One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15045+Elizabeth lineC38154+Greater AngliaP66450
    11:18 AM4h19
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    3:37 PMStansted Airport (SSD)
    $851One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a train costs an average of $39.

Distance: 149 miles (241 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$97

Average price

$36

Average price

Cheapest

$69

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 31m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 38m

Average total duration

5h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 32m

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 Stansted Airport (SSD) is a bus with an average price of $36 (€29).

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD):

A bus is $61 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) costing on average $97 (€78).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) is by train with an average journey time of 3h 1m.

Other travel options to Stansted Airport (SSD) take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 8m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Stansted Airport (SSD) including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 31m sooner (3h 1m by train vs 3h 32m by car). Tickets start at around $97 (€78) compared to roughly $69 (€55) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) trains for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayC00123+Elizabeth lineC37424+Greater AngliaP66428
On time
10:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h17
2:37 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayGW199500 · W35216+Greater AngliaP66452+Transport for WalesG3896910:43 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h54
3:37 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayC50037+Greater AngliaP66458+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Liverpool Street
On time
11:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h34
3:54 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC50037+Greater AngliaP66458+Elizabeth lineC36819
On time
11:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h34
3:54 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC50037+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP66458
On time
11:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h34
3:54 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayGW584500 · V85075+Elizabeth lineC37570+Greater AngliaP662164:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h29
8:54 AM Stansted Airport (SSD)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayW35431+Elizabeth lineC37666+Greater AngliaP662495:07 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h32
9:39 AM Stansted Airport (SSD)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayV85072 · GW584300 · V85074+Elizabeth lineC381255:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h30
10:23 AM Stansted Airport (SSD)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayG15041+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP663848:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h37
12:55 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG15041+Elizabeth lineC37926+Greater AngliaP663788:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h19
12:37 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayGW583700 · G15042+Elizabeth lineC37563+Greater AngliaP663968:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h38
1:23 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayW35225+Elizabeth lineC37989+Greater AngliaP02925+CrossCountryG667128:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h52
1:37 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayGW583700 · G15042+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP029258:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h52
1:37 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)4 transfers
Great Western RailwayW35432+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP029279:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h36
1:55 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW35227+Elizabeth lineC38069+Greater AngliaL55741 · P664269:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h52
2:37 PM Stansted Airport (SSD)4 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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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Jun 04
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Jun 05
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Jun 06
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Jun 07

Why should you book Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).

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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).
  • 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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€31) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:14, the last at 20:22. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (241 km) distance in 3h 32m.

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 $27 (€22)
Distance
149 miles (241 km)
Average train duration
3h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$39 (€31)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 32m
First train
4:14 AM
Last train
8:22 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Tue
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 $27 (€22)

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Stansted Airport (SSD) from $27 (€22). 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 32m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€31)
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

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Price
$217 (€175)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
17 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD)

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€31), while the average price is around $97 (€78).
The train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) takes 3h 32m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) is 149 miles (241 km).
The first train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) leaves at 4:14 AM.
The last train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) leaves at 8:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from Cardiff Central to Stansted Airport offers varied scenery, including views of the Welsh countryside, the Severn Estuary, and parts of the English countryside, though it primarily focuses on functional travel rather than scenic routes.
A day trip from Cardiff Central to Stansted Airport is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 32m. Trains run 7 times per day, covering a distance of 149 miles (241 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD).
Since neither Cardiff Central (CDF) nor Stansted Airport (SSD) 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 Stansted Airport (SSD) include London, Cambridge, Peterborough, Bishop's Stortford, Stansted Mountfitchet.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) 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 Stansted Airport (SSD)

Cardiff
London
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
Dining
  • Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
  • Pret a Manger
  • Tesco Express
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
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
Hotel
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff
  • Cardiff Marriott Hotel
  • Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
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)

More options for your journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD)

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Most popular trains to and from Stansted Airport (SSD) and Cardiff Central (CDF)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomCardiff Central (CDF) to Stansted Airport (SSD) train

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