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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth
Showing times and prices for Dec 21
Cheapest price
$103
Average price
$140
Fastest journey
3 h 7 m
Average duration
3 h 31 m
Trains per day
6
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 $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $103.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Bournemouth without transferring at least once.
L16802+
L7260410:25AM3h58
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:23PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1031One-way
1 transfer
L16800+L7260209:18AM4h05
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:23PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1031One-way
1 transfer
P30123+L7260611:25AM3h56
Cardiff Central (CDF)03:21PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1031One-way
1 transfer
L16829+
C7516211:20AM3h07
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:27PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1781One-way
1 transfer
L16827+C7516010:20AM3h07
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:27PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1781One-way
1 transfer
L16829+C7516211:20AM3h07
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:27PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1781One-way
1 transfer
L16827+C7516010:20AM3h07
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:27PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1781One-way
1 transfer
L16824+C7247109:00AM3h27
Cardiff Central (CDF)12:27PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1781One-way
1 transfer
P30123+L7260611:25AM3h56
Cardiff Central (CDF)03:21PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1031One-way
1 transfer
L16802+L7260410:25AM3h58
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:23PMBournemouth station (BMH)
$1031One-way
1 transfer
Cardiff - BournemouthCompare Great Western Rail, CrossCountry
$40
3h 30m
5 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
$107
5h 16m
2 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Bournemouth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 1m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €16, and a train costs an average of €32.
Distance: 77 miles (124 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€69 Average price | €27 Average price Cheapest |
3h 31m Average total duration Fastest 3h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 14m Average total duration 6h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cardiff to Bournemouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bournemouth trains for tomorrow, Sunday, December 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:03 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L16824+C72471 | On time 9:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h27 | 12:27 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1 transfer | |
| L16800+L72602 | On time 9:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h05 | 1:23 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1 transfer | |
| L16827+C75160 | On time 10:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h07 | 1:27 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1 transfer | |
| L16802+L72604 | On time 10:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h58 | 2:23 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1 transfer | |
| L16829+C75162 | On time 11:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h07 | 2:27 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1 transfer | |
| P30123+L72606 | On time 11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h56 | 3:21 PM Bournemouth station (BMH) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Bournemouth 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.
Sun
Dec 21
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27
Dec 27
Why should you book Cardiff to Bournemouth trains with Omio?
Great Western Rail as well as CrossCountry and first_great_western 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 Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry and first_great_western 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 Rail 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 Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Great Western Rail tickets can be bought on Great Western Rail's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry and first_great_western to help you choose the right option for your journey 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Bournemouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€32) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:12, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 77 miles (124 km) distance in 3h 30m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 77 miles (124 km) |
Average train duration 3h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€32) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 30m |
First train 04:12 |
Last train 21:20 |
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 $20 (€16)
Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, first_great_western from Cardiff to Bournemouth trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Bournemouth from $20 (€16). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Rail
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 30m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
Great Western Rail frequency
5 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 Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest Price
$107 (€86)
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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
$160 (€128)
first_great_western frequency
25 a day
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.
To fully enjoy Bournemouth's attractions, beaches, and nearby areas, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient.
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.
A day trip from Cardiff to Bournemouth is not feasible as the travel time is 3h 30m, which exceeds the 120-minute threshold. There are 5 train trips available per day.
In Bournemouth, you can explore the Oceanarium to discover marine life, enjoy the floral displays and events at Lower Gardens, or visit Boscombe Chine Gardens for mini-golf and water play. Nature enthusiasts can head to Hengistbury Head for hiking and birdwatching. For aviation history, the Bournemouth Aviation Museum offers an interactive experience. Relax on the sandy expanses of Bournemouth Beach, or stroll along the Victorian-era Bournemouth Pier for entertainment and dining. The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum houses a diverse art collection, while Bournemouth Gardens provide a picturesque setting for walks and picnics. Don't miss St. Peter's Church, with its stunning architecture and the resting place of Mary Shelley.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€32), while the average price is around $86 (€69).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Bournemouth is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
The train from Cardiff to Bournemouth takes 3h 30m and runs 5 per day.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Bournemouth is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Bournemouth station (BMH).
The distance by train from Cardiff to Bournemouth is 77 miles (124 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
The first train from Cardiff to Bournemouth leaves at 4:12 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Bournemouth leaves at 9:20 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Bournemouth
Cardiff
Bournemouth
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
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
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
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)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. The station is not suitable for wheelchair or powered mobility scooter users. Platform 1 (to Rhymney) has a long, steep access ramp. Platform 2 (to Cardiff) is only accessible via 41 steps. Customers travelling from the Rhymney Valley are advised to alight at Cardiff Queen Street and return to Heath Low Level.
- 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
Public transit options for Heath High Level
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait outside station on Heath Halt Road
The major train station for arrivals in Bournemouth is Bournemouth. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bournemouth for your journey to Bournemouth from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 20:40 Saturday 05:40 - 20:40 Sunday 06:40 - 20:40
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: Premium
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on both platforms. The National key toilets are located on both platforms; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Bournemouth
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: To Southampton / Brockenhurst: Station entrance on Halfords side. To Poole: Station entrance on Asda side.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:50 - 12:30 Saturday 07:50 - 13:40 Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Pokesdown
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: To Bournemouth: Christchurch Road (A35) Bus Stop by Bell Inn To Christchurch: Christchurch Road (A35) lay by outside Station
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
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