- Recommended
Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
Local museum on Barnstaple's history, archaeology, and culture. A strong first stop for understanding the town and wider North Devon.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Barnstaple
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
€49
Average price
€60
Fastest journey
3 h 47 m
Average duration
3 h 52 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
76 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Barnstaple is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Barnstaple will cost around €60 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €49.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Cardiff for Barnstaple on Fri, Jul 31, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 3 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 47 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest trains will take 3 h 57 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.
7:38 AM3h47Cardiff11:25 AMBarnstaple€491One-way0 transfers- 9:30 AM3h57Cardiff1:27 PMBarnstaple€711One-way0 transfers
- 7:38 AM3h47Cardiff11:25 AMBarnstaple€491One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 AM3h57Cardiff1:27 PMBarnstaple€711One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Barnstaple
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Barnstaple among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €41. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €41, and a train costs an average of €41.
Distance: 47 miles (76 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€59 Average price | €43 Average price Cheapest | €37 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 39m Average total duration Fastest 3h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 3m Average total duration 4h 33m 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 Cardiff to Barnstaple is a bus with an average price of €43.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Barnstaple:
A bus is €16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Barnstaple costing on average €59.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Barnstaple is by train with an average journey time of 3h 9m.
Other travel options to Barnstaple take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Barnstaple including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Barnstaple 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 €59 compared to roughly €37 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-21.85. The journey takes 3h 9m 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
Cardiff to Barnstaple train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Barnstaple trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:38 AM Cardiff | 3h47 | 11:25 AM Barnstaple | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:30 AM Cardiff | 3h57 | 1:27 PM Barnstaple | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Barnstaple 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.
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
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Why should you book Cardiff to Barnstaple trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
- 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 to Barnstaple.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Barnstaple
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Barnstaple run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €41 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:54, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 47 miles (76 km) distance in 3h 47m.
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
Distance 47 miles (76 km) |
Average train duration 3h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price €41 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 47m |
First train 5:54 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 77 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
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff to Barnstaple trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff and Barnstaple from €41. 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 47m
Cheapest Price
€41
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 Duration
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
€83
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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 29m
Cheapest Price
€148
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Barnstaple
Things to do in Barnstaple
Discover the best of Barnstaple — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Barnstaple trip today.
- Recommended
The Plough Arts Centre
Regional arts venue presenting contemporary exhibitions, film, and performances. Worth visiting for changing visual art shows in central Barnstaple.
- Recommended
North Devon Maritime Museum
Maritime museum in a historic signal station at nearby Instow. Displays explain local seafaring and estuary links relevant to North Devon.
- Must visit
Tarka Trail
Traffic-free trail along the old railway, linking Barnstaple with coast and countryside. Excellent for walking or cycling with estuary scenery.
- Recommended
Boutport Street
Historic shopping street lined with characterful buildings. Ideal for appreciating Barnstaple's commercial heritage and everyday town-centre atmosphere.
- Recommended
Rock Park
Green riverside park popular for walks, sports, and family time. It offers open views and a relaxed break close to the town centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Devon Clotted Cream
A rich North Devon cream made by slowly heating milk. Served with scones and jam, it is a defining regional treat across Devon tea rooms.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
Traditional Devon split scones filled with jam and clotted cream. The Devon style puts cream before jam and is a proud local custom.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Devon Cider
A classic West Country cider from nearby orchards. Dry or sparkling styles are widely drunk in North Devon pubs and with local food.
62 The Bank
Smart modern restaurant in Barnstaple known for seasonal British cooking, tasting menus, and polished service in an intimate setting.
Giovanni's & Luca's
Established Italian restaurant with a loyal local following, serving pasta, pizza, and seafood in a relaxed riverside area.
The Pelican
Historic pub and restaurant in the town centre, popular for cask ales, classic British dishes, and a traditional atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and meals are usually lower than major cities, while local buses and everyday dining stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafes.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.60
To the city center
Barnstaple Railway Station -> The Square, Barnstaple
- Distance
- 1.1 km
- Travel time
- 14 min
- Most Barnstaple local buses are run by Stagecoach South West. Contactless card payment is generally accepted on board.
- Barnstaple town centre is walkable from the railway station in about 14 min. Check live bus times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Barnstaple
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Barnstaple can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €41, while the average price is around €59.
The train from Cardiff to Barnstaple takes 3h 47m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Barnstaple is 47 miles (76 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Barnstaple leaves at 5:54 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Barnstaple leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Barnstaple is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Barnstaple station (BNP).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Barnstaple is by train, with a cost of around €41.
The train journey from Cardiff to Barnstaple offers a scenic route, featuring picturesque views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and charming rural landscapes as you approach the North Devon area.
A day trip from Cardiff to Barnstaple is not feasible with a travel duration of 3h 47m and a daily train frequency of 5. The distance is 47 miles (76 km).
Two to three days are ideal to explore Barnstaple's key attractions, enjoy its local markets, and experience the nearby countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Barnstaple.
Since neither Cardiff nor Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple include Exeter, Bridgwater, Dawlish, Torquay, Newton Abbot.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing in busy areas and on public transport. It's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded spots, especially around the town center and transportation hubs. While scams are not prevalent, travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers or deals that seem too good to be true, particularly from street vendors or unofficial ticket sellers. Keeping personal belongings secure and purchasing tickets from official sources helps ensure a safe experience.
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 to Barnstaple
Most Cardiff to Barnstaple trains use the Cardiff Central to Barnstaple station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple
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 · €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.
Which Barnstaple station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Barnstaple arrive at Barnstaple. Barnstaple is 0 miles (1 km) from Barnstaple city centre.
BarnstapleBarnstaple station, Station Road, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 2AU+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Barnstaple from Barnstaple city centre
Bus21, 21A, 372, 301, 71, 72, 319, 155, 15, 21B, 310, 309, 303, 19, 5B, 85 · 5m · €2 · every ~31 min
301, 921, 21B, 310, 309, 303, 19 · 9m · €2 · every ~14 min
Barnstaple train station facilities and services
Barnstaple has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Station Masters Cafe
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Barnstaple.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Barnstaple: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Barnstaple: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Barnstaple: 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.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Barnstaple
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Barnstaple and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Barnstaple
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