- Must visit
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum with natural history, archaeology, art, and local collections in a grand building. A top all-round introduction to Bristol.
Cheapest price
$27
Average price
$27
Fastest journey
45 m
Average duration
46 m
Trains per day
28
Distance
41 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Bristol is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Bristol will cost around $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.
Of the 28 trains that leave Cardiff for Bristol on Sun, Aug 23, 27 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Aug 23 the direct trains cover the 41 km distance in an average of 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 45 m .
On Sun, Aug 23 the slowest trains will take 46 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.
Y41671
W35012
Y41674
Y41680
W34991
W35030
Y41630
C00852
C00850
W35050Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $5. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $5, and a train costs an average of $18.
Distance: 25 miles (41 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$28 Average price | $8 Average price Cheapest | $29 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 50m Average total duration 1h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Bristol:
A bus is $20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Bristol costing on average $28.
Other travel options to Bristol take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 20m.
Tickets start at around $28 compared to roughly $29 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $1. The journey takes 1h 20m versus 1h 7m 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.
Direct services run with Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bristol trains for today, Saturday, August 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
C42269 | On time 4:27 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 5:17 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42446 | On time 4:58 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h54 | 5:52 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42271 | On time 5:27 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 6:17 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41685 | On time 5:58 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h52 | 6:50 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42273 | On time 6:27 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 7:17 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42447 | On time 7:00 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 7:50 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42275 | On time 7:30 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h47 | 8:17 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41691 | On time 7:54 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h48 | 8:42 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42277 | On time 8:30 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h45 | 9:15 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42448 | On time 9:00 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 9:50 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G66474 | On time 9:35 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h49 | 10:24 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42449 | On time 10:01 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 10:52 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41875 | On time 10:47 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h56 | 11:43 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, August 23 | |||||
W34973 | 9:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h56 | 10:14 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C00165+ G01136 | On time 9:35 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h14 | 10:49 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 transfer | |
Y41662 | 10:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 10:51 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34979 | 10:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h47 | 11:12 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41665 | 10:57 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 11:48 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C00850 | 11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h46 | 12:11 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41668 | 12:00 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 12:51 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34991 | 12:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h47 | 1:12 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41671 | 1:00 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 1:50 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C00852 | 1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h46 | 2:11 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41674 | 2:00 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 2:51 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35012 | 2:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h47 | 3:12 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41677 | 3:00 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 3:51 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35018 | 3:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h47 | 4:12 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y41680 | 4:00 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 4:51 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cardiff to Bristol run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 but you can travel from only $6 by bus.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 25 miles (41 km) distance in 45m.
Distance 25 miles (41 km) |
Average train duration 1h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 45m |
First train 12:30 AM |
Last train 11:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Bristol — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bristol trip today.
Major city museum with natural history, archaeology, art, and local collections in a grand building. A top all-round introduction to Bristol.
Historic passenger ship designed by Brunel. Explore decks, cabins, and dockside museum displays on one of Bristol’s most famous heritage attractions.
Purpose-built city history museum beside the floating harbour. It tells Bristol’s story through people, trade, protest, and everyday life.
Historic waterfront district with museums, boats, walks, and lively public spaces. Ideal for first-time visitors wanting Bristol’s signature atmosphere.
Elegant Georgian neighborhood of terraces, crescents, and village-like streets. A classic base for architecture, walks, and access to the bridge.
Panoramic viewpoint above the Avon Gorge near the suspension bridge. One of Bristol’s best free spots for dramatic landscapes and sunset photos.
A split-top white roll filled with roast beef, onions and gravy. A Bristol classic tied to the city’s old market and dockside workers.
Bristol’s own blue cheese, made in Somerset and long associated with the city. Rich, creamy and pungent, it reflects the region’s historic cheese trade.
Dry, still or sparkling cider made from West Country apples. Bristol’s pubs and cider houses make it a defining local drink with deep regional roots.
Historic harbourside restaurant in a converted shipping container. Celebrated for local seafood, oysters and relaxed waterside dining.
Michelin-starred fine dining known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and an intimate, special-occasion atmosphere.
Beloved casual eatery serving mezze and Middle Eastern plates. Lively, affordable and one of Bristol’s longest-established independent favourites.
Moderate for UK city breaks. Hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but central stays, attractions, and transport can still add up for tourists.
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
Official public transport app
Bristol Temple Meads -> Bristol City Centre
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Bristol 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 Bristol, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cardiff to Bristol trains use the Cardiff Central to Bristol Temple Meads station pair, with some services arriving at Bristol, Airport. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Bristol train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
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 options are available at Cathays.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
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 options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Bristol Temple Meads 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, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.
Bristol, Airport is 11 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
Bristol, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Dexters, Brunel Bar & Kitchen
Free. ATMs are available in the airport terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Bristol, Airport. Information desks are located in the main terminal.
Luggage storage is available at Bristol, Airport. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bristol, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bristol, Airport: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport, Holiday Inn Bristol Airport, Winford Manor Hotel.
Montpelier is 1 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
Montpelier has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Montpelier.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Montpelier: Parking.
Available at Montpelier: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Montpelier: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to the platform, Accessible taxis: No, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need