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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Brighton
Showing times and prices for May 24
Cheapest price
$118
Average price
$173
Fastest journey
4 h 38 m
Average duration
4 h 52 m
Trains per day
12
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 $173 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $118.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Brighton without transferring at least 4 times.
GW106000 · W35211 · C33124+
G260908:15 AM5h23Cardiff Central (CDF)1:38 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1181One-way3 transfers
Y61968+GW105000 · C50037+
Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria10:30 AM5h08Cardiff Central (CDF)3:38 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way4 transfers- G39587+C33106+Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria+G260938:23 AM6h45Cardiff Central (CDF)3:08 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way3 transfers
- V80648 · GW105600 · C00123+Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria8:50 AM5h48Cardiff Central (CDF)2:38 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way4 transfers
- G39022+GW103800 · W35220+Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria1:30 PM4h38Cardiff Central (CDF)6:08 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way4 transfers
- G39022+GW103800 · W35220+Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria1:30 PM4h38Cardiff Central (CDF)6:08 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way4 transfers
- Y61969+GW103400 · W35442+Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria2:29 PM4h39Cardiff Central (CDF)7:08 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way4 transfers
- G39030+GW103000 · C00125+Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria3:22 PM4h46Cardiff Central (CDF)8:08 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way4 transfers
- Y61968+GW105000 · C50037+Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria10:30 AM5h08Cardiff Central (CDF)3:38 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way4 transfers
- Y61959+GW102600 · W35445+Tube from London Paddington to London Victoria4:29 PM5h09Cardiff Central (CDF)9:38 PMBrighton station (BTN)$1781One-way4 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 $19. 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 $19, and a train costs an average of $30.
Distance: 139 miles (224 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$74 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $65 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 |
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 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 $46 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Brighton costing on average $74 (€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 $74 (€60) compared to roughly $65 (€52) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-9.21 (€-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, Saturday, May 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:30 AM Cardiff | 4h35 | 11:05 AM Brighton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:23 AM Cardiff | 3h50 | 11:13 AM Brighton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:27 AM Cardiff | 4h38 | 12:05 PM Brighton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:23 AM Cardiff | 3h50 | 12:13 PM Brighton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:25 AM Cardiff | 5h53 | 2:18 PM Brighton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:27 AM Cardiff | 4h38 | 1:05 PM Brighton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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.
Sun
May 24
May 24
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May 25
May 25
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May 26
May 26
Wed
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May 27
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May 30
May 30
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
Trains from Cardiff to Brighton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) but you can travel from only $19 (€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 $19 (€15)
Distance 139 miles (224 km) |
Average train duration 3h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€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 $19 (€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 $19 (€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
$30 (€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
$247 (€200)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
25 a day
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.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Brighton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€24), while the average price is around $74 (€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 $19 (€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
Cardiff
Brighton
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 Brighton.
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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
The major train station for arrivals in Brighton is Brighton. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Brighton for your journey to Brighton from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Stroudley Road.
Dining
- The Grand Central
- The Cyclist
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- £0.50
Hotel
- Jurys Inn Brighton
- Ibis Brighton City Centre
- My Brighton Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main concourse
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main concourse
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for trains to London, Gatwick, and the south coast
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Brighton
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Southern and Thameslink services
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 05:50 - 21:00 Sunday 07:10 - 21:45
Distance to city center
2 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Newsagent, Booking Hall
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: YES
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Platforms 1 and 2
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There is a heated waiting area on platform 1. All platforms have covered areas
Bike Parking
- Storage location: Station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 06:00 - 19:10 Sunday 09:10 - 16:45
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: This is a Category C station: This station does not have step-free access. Assistance Meeting Point is outside the ticket office on platforms 1 and 2.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: No
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: No
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There is an unheated waiting area on platform 1, 2 and 3
Bike Parking
- Storage location: Platform 3
- Storage CCTV: Yes
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Brighton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brighton and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Brighton
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