- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Victorian villa museum with local history, archaeology, and rotating exhibitions in one of Bournemouth’s most important heritage buildings.
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 Cardiff to Bournemouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- $100
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- $100
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 3 h 34 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 3 h 38 m
- Trains on Nov 03
- 3
- Distance
- 124 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Bournemouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Bournemouth will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $100.
Fast trains
On Tue, Nov 03, we found 3 trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 03 the direct trains cover the 124 km distance in an average of 3 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 34 m .
On Tue, Nov 03 the slowest trains will take 3 h 45 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.
8:27 AM 3h34 Cardiff 12:01 PM Bournemouth $100 1 One-way 0 transfers7:28 PM 3h45 Cardiff 11:13 PM Bournemouth $101 1 One-way 0 transfers7:27 AM 3h34 Cardiff 11:01 AM Bournemouth $101 1 One-way 0 transfers
8:27 AM 3h34 Cardiff 12:01 PM Bournemouth $100 1 One-way 0 transfers7:27 AM 3h34 Cardiff 11:01 AM Bournemouth $101 1 One-way 0 transfers7:28 PM 3h45 Cardiff 11:13 PM Bournemouth $101 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Bournemouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 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 46m.
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 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 46m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 9:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Cardiff to Bournemouth trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $55, while the average price is around $112.
The train from Cardiff to Bournemouth takes 2h 46m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Bournemouth leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Bournemouth is 77 miles (124 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Bournemouth leaves at 9:20 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Live departures
Cardiff to Bournemouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bournemouth trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:27 AM Cardiff | 3h34 | 11:01 AM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:27 AM Cardiff | 3h34 | 12:01 PM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:28 PM Cardiff | 3h45 | 11:13 PM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Bournemouth trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or South Western Railway offer trains services from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
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 Cardiff to Bournemouth.
- 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 to Bournemouth.
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 Cardiff to Bournemouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Cardiff to Bournemouth trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Bournemouth 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 46m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$55
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
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 50m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$87
CrossCountry frequency
2 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 17m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$85
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 Cardiff and Bournemouth
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 Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
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 Bournemouth
Things to do in Bournemouth
Discover the best of Bournemouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bournemouth trip today.
- Recommended
Red House Museum and Gardens
Volunteer-run local museum covering Christchurch history, archaeology, and community life in a characterful period setting.
- Recommended
Bournemouth Aviation Museum
Specialist aviation museum at Bournemouth Airport displaying historic aircraft, cockpits, and memorabilia for enthusiasts and families.
- Must visit
Bournemouth Beach
Long sandy beach and promenade area at the resort’s core, ideal for classic seaside walks, sunsets, and easy access to the pier.
- Must visit
Lower Gardens
Victorian gardens running through the town center, popular for strolling, seasonal events, and a green link from square to sea.
- Recommended
Alum Chine
Clifftop and chine with woodland paths descending to a quieter beach, loved for views and a more local atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Crab
Fresh crab landed on the Dorset coast, often served simply in salads or sandwiches. It is prized locally for its sweet flavour and seaside freshness.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Dorset Blue Vinny
A traditional Dorset blue cheese with a crumbly texture and strong savoury taste. It reflects the county’s long farmhouse cheesemaking heritage.
Fish And Chips
Classic fish and chips made with fresh south coast fish. It is a staple British seaside meal strongly associated with Bournemouth beach outings.
Chez Fred
Casual Bournemouth institution famous for hearty fish and chips close to the beach, ideal for a classic seaside meal.
The Crab At Bournemouth
Refined seafood-focused fine dining in a stylish setting near the coast, known for tasting menus and polished service.
WestBeach
Busy traditional seafood spot by the seafront, popular for fish and chips, shellfish, and relaxed coastal dining.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: hotels peak in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if not already added. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
More Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Bournemouth Railway Station -> Bournemouth Square
- Distance
- 1.9 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Morebus services, including tap on and tap off on supported routes.
- Most local buses and rail services arrive near Bournemouth Square; use the More Bus app for live departures and mobile tickets.
Plan your visit to Bournemouth
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 Bournemouth.
The train journey from Cardiff to Bournemouth offers varied scenery, including views of the Welsh countryside, the Severn Estuary, and parts of the South West of England, providing a pleasant and diverse visual experience.
Popular day trips by train from Bournemouth include Southampton, New Milton, Reading, Brockenhurst, Portsmouth.
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 Bournemouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like beaches and nightlife spots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and stay vigilant in busy public places to ensure safety.
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 Cardiff to Bournemouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Bournemouth
Most Cardiff to Bournemouth trains use the Cardiff Central to Bournemouth station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth
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.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $3 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which Bournemouth station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth arrive at Bournemouth. Bournemouth is 0 miles (1 km) from Bournemouth city centre.
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.
Train stations for Cardiff to Bournemouth
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Bournemouth, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Bournemouth is Cardiff Central, which connects to Bournemouth.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Bournemouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bournemouth and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Bournemouth
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.
