Cardiff to Bradford train with CrossCountry

Sat, Jul 11
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Bradford

Showing times and prices for Jul 11

Cheapest price

$92

Average price

$92

Fastest journey

4 h 56 m

Average duration

4 h 56 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

275 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Bradford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Bradford will cost around $92 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $92.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Cardiff for Bradford on Sat, Jul 11, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jul 11 the direct trains cover the 275 km distance in an average of 4 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 56 m .

On Sat, Jul 11 the slowest trains will take 4 h 56 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.

  • Transport for Wales
    9:53 AM4h56
    Cardiff
    2:49 PMBradford
    $921One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Bradford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Bradford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a train costs an average of $72.

Distance: 170 miles (275 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$87

Average price

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$76

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 56m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 40m

Average total duration

7h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 35m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Bradford is a bus with an average price of $37 (€31).

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Bradford:

A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Bradford costing on average $87 (€72).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Bradford is by train with an average journey time of 4h 26m.

Other travel options to Bradford take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Bradford including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Bradford 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 9m sooner (4h 26m by train vs 4h 35m by car). Tickets start at around $87 (€72) compared to roughly $76 (€62) 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 to Bradford train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bradford trains for today, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for Wales9:53 AM Cardiff
4h56
2:49 PM Bradford0 transfersDirect
Transport for Wales2:51 PM Cardiff
4h59
7:50 PM Bradford0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Bradford 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.

Sat
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17

Why should you book Cardiff to Bradford trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Bradford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Bradford.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Bradford.
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Bradford.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Bradford.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Bradford.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Bradford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Bradford run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $72 (€59) but you can travel from only $19 (€16) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 02:57, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 170 miles (275 km) distance in 4h 52m.

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 $19 (€16)
Distance
170 miles (275 km)
Average train duration
4h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$72 (€59)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
4h 52m
First train
2:57 AM
Last train
11:40 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
3 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $19 (€16)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Bradford trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Bradford from $19 (€16). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
4h 52m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€60)
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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 56m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€59)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Bradford

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Bradford 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 Bradford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Bradford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $72 (€59), while the average price is around $87 (€72).
The train from Cardiff to Bradford takes 4h 52m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Bradford leaves at 2:57 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Bradford is 170 miles (275 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Bradford leaves at 11:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Bradford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Bradford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Bradford.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Bradford is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Bradford Interchange (BDI).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Bradford is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€16).
The train journey from Cardiff to Bradford offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with scenic stretches including the picturesque landscapes of the Welsh borders and the rolling hills of the Pennines as you approach West Yorkshire.
A day trip from Cardiff to Bradford is not feasible as the one-way journey takes 4h 52m and there are 4 trains per day for this 170 miles (275 km) route.
To fully explore Bradford's rich cultural heritage, museums, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Bradford.
Since neither Cardiff nor Bradford 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 Bradford include Leeds, Manchester, Halifax, Rochdale, Keighley.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Bradford 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 Bradford, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and to confirm fares beforehand. Be wary of street scams offering unofficial tours or deals that seem too good to be true. Staying alert and using reputable services helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Bradford

Most Cardiff to Bradford trains use the Cardiff Central to Bradford Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Bradford Forster Square. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Bradford 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 Bradford
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.

LlanishenLlanishen station, Station Road, Llanishen, South Glamorgan, CF14 5UW+44 3333211202ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Llanishen from Cardiff city centre

Llanishen is 5 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Caerphilly, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Penarth - Caerphilly, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach, Bridgend - Rhymney · 7m · $2 · every ~9 min
Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Penarth - Caerphilly, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach, Bridgend - Rhymney · 11m · $2 · every ~9 min
Bus86 · 34m · $2 · every ~1 min

Llanishen train station facilities and services

Llanishen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Llanishen.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Llanishen: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Llanishen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Llanishen: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platforms 1 (to Rhymney) via the car park. There are two routes onto the platform, one with a steep gradient and one with a moderate gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Cardiff) via a ramp with a steep gradient. Access between the platforms is via a roadbridge with a walkway but no pavement, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre

Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $2 · 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.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Bradford

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

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