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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Bradford
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$88
Average price
$93
Fastest journey
4 h 56 m
Average duration
4 h 59 m
Trains per day
4
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 $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cardiff for Bradford on Wed, May 27, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct trains cover the 275 km distance in an average of 4 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 56 m .
On Wed, May 27 the slowest trains will take 5 h 3 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.
6:53 AM5h03Cardiff11:56 AMBradford$881One-way0 transfers- 9:53 AM4h56Cardiff2:49 PMBradford$941One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM4h56Cardiff1:49 PMBradford$941One-way0 transfers
- 12:52 PM5h02Cardiff5:54 PMBradford$951One-way0 transfers
- 9:53 AM4h56Cardiff2:49 PMBradford$941One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM4h56Cardiff1:49 PMBradford$941One-way0 transfers
- 12:52 PM5h02Cardiff5:54 PMBradford$951One-way0 transfers
- 6:53 AM5h03Cardiff11:56 AMBradford$881One-way0 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 $20. 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 $20, and a train costs an average of $73.
Distance: 170 miles (275 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$89 Average price | $38 Average price Cheapest | $77 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 |
 Most popular train company |  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 $38 (€31).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Bradford:
A bus is $51 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Bradford costing on average $89 (€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 $89 (€72) compared to roughly $77 (€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.
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.
Wed
May 27
May 27
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May 28
May 28
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May 29
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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
Trains from Cardiff to Bradford run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€59) but you can travel from only $20 (€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 $20 (€16)
Distance 170 miles (275 km) |
Average train duration 4h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $73 (€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 $20 (€16)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Bradford trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Bradford from $20 (€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
$75 (€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
$73 (€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.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Bradford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€59), while the average price is around $89 (€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 $20 (€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
Cardiff
Bradford
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 Bradford.
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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
Public transit options for Llanishen
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Station Road
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: On the road outside the station
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.
The major train station for arrivals in Bradford is Bradford Interchange. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bradford Interchange for your journey to Bradford from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:00 - 20:15 Sunday 08:00 - 20:15
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A Station, Scooter Friendly Station - There is level access to all the platforms and a wheelchair is available if pre-booked via 0800 138 5560, or by asking for help at the Station Supervisors office next to platform 1. There are also escalators and lifts available from the bus station below up to the rail station. Please note that escalators and lifts are not operated by Northern or Network Rail.
- Accessible public telephones: in the interchange
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets and accessible toilets are available at the bus and coach Interchange next to the rail station.
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Bradford Interchange
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at parcels bay adjacent to Platform 1, through the red gate.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Saturday 06:10 - 19:00 Friday 06:10 - 20:00 Sunday 08:45 - 18:00
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station Scooter Friendly Station - There is level access to all the platforms and ramps are available. Lift available 06:00 - 19:00 Monday to Saturday, 09:00 - 18:00 Sunday, however there is an alternative accessible route without having to use lift.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key.
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Bradford Forster Square
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at station front on St Blaise Way adjacent to service bus stop (25702).
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B station, Station is unstaffed. However no problems for disabled or wheelchair users as the access to the platforms is via the road and a ramp. Step free access from car park to platforms
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Frizinghall
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop close to the station. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport will pick up/drop off by the car park entrance on Frizinghall Road
- Metro: 0113 245 7676
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Bradford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bradford and Cardiff
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