Cardiff to Brighton train with Great Western Railway

Wed, Jul 08
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Brighton

Showing times and prices for Jul 08

Cheapest price

$68

Average price

$72

Fastest journey

3 h 54 m

Average duration

4 h 23 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

224 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Brighton will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Cardiff for Brighton on Wed, Jul 08, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jul 08 the direct trains cover the 224 km distance in an average of 4 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 54 m .

On Wed, Jul 08 the slowest trains will take 4 h 38 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.

  • Great Western Railway
    6:28 AM4h37
    Cardiff
    11:05 AMBrighton
    $681One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    8:27 AM4h38
    Cardiff
    1:05 PMBrighton
    $681One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    8:49 AM3h54
    Cardiff
    12:43 PMBrighton
    $801One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Brighton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Brighton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 53m. 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 $18, and a train costs an average of $29.

Distance: 139 miles (224 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$73

Average price

$28

Average price

Cheapest

$64

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 8m

Average total duration

5h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 35m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

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 Brighton is a bus with an average price of $28 (€23).

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

A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Brighton costing on average $73 (€60).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Brighton is by train with an average journey time of 3h 53m.

Other travel options to Brighton take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Brighton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Brighton 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 $73 (€60) compared to roughly $64 (€52) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-9.09 (€-7.46). The journey takes 3h 53m versus 3h 35m 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 Brighton train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Brighton trains for today, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western Railway8:27 AM Cardiff
4h38
1:05 PM Brighton0 transfersDirect
Great Western Railway10:30 AM Cardiff
4h35
3:05 PM Brighton0 transfersDirect
Great Western Railway11:50 AM Cardiff
3h53
3:43 PM Brighton0 transfersDirect
Great Western Railway1:30 PM Cardiff
4h35
6:05 PM Brighton0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, July 8
Great Western Railway6:28 AM Cardiff
4h37
11:05 AM Brighton0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Brighton 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.

Wed
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14

Why should you book Cardiff to Brighton trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff to Brighton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Brighton.

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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Brighton.
  • 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 Brighton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Brighton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Brighton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Brighton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:12, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 139 miles (224 km) distance in 3h 39m.

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 $18 (€15)
Distance
139 miles (224 km)
Average train duration
3h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€24)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 39m
First train
4:12 AM
Last train
9:20 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $18 (€15)

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff to Brighton trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff and Brighton from $18 (€15). 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 39m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
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

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 24m
Cheapest Price
$244 (€200)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
25 a day

Complete guide to Brighton

Things to do in Brighton

Discover the best of Brighton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brighton trip today.

  • Must visit

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Major city museum in the Royal Pavilion Estate with art, fashion, local history, and design collections.

  • Recommended

Hove Museum of Creativity

Family-friendly museum in a Victorian villa, known for toys, film exhibits, craft, and local design displays.

  • Recommended

Booth Museum of Natural History

Compact natural history museum with Victorian displays, bird collections, fossils, and educational exhibits.

Pound Sterling

Prices are high by UK standards, especially for hotels and dining in central seafront areas, though pubs, cafés, and takeaway spots can still be reasonable.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Small tips are optional in cafés, bars, hotels, and for delivery.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Brighton

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Brighton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€24), while the average price is around $73 (€60).
The train from Cardiff to Brighton takes 3h 39m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Brighton is 139 miles (224 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Brighton leaves at 4:12 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Brighton leaves at 9:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Brighton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Brighton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Brighton.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Brighton is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Brighton station (BTN).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Brighton is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Cardiff to Brighton offers a blend of urban and rural landscapes, including views of the picturesque South Downs, charming countryside, and glimpses of the English Channel as you approach Brighton.
A day trip from Cardiff to Brighton is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 39m and the distance is 139 miles (224 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
In Brighton, you can explore the vibrant street art scene with guided tours to discover murals and graffiti, visit the British Airways i360 for panoramic views, and enjoy performances at the Brighton Dome. Take a scenic walk along the Undercliff Walk, experience the nightlife in lively bars and clubs, and visit sights like the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, and Brighton Beach. Don't miss The Lanes for unique shopping and the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery for cultural exhibits.
For a fulfilling visit to Brighton, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows you to explore the vibrant pier, enjoy the beach, visit the Royal Pavilion, and experience the local shops and restaurants.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Brighton.
Since neither Cardiff nor Brighton 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 Brighton include London, Lewes, Haywards Heath, Worthing, Burgess Hill.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Brighton 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 Brighton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the pier, the Lanes, and busy streets. Scams involving overcharging in taxis and unlicensed cabs are reported, so it’s advisable to use licensed services or pre-book transportation. Additionally, travelers should be wary of fake charity collectors and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings can help 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 Brighton

Most Cardiff to Brighton trains use the Cardiff Central to Brighton station pair, with some services arriving at Hove. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Brighton 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 Brighton
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.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre

TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min

Cathays train station facilities and services

Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cathays.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cathays: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time, 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.

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 Brighton

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

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomCardiff to Brighton train

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