Cardiff to Bristol train with Great Western Rail

Thu, Jan 08
+ Add return
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
first_great_western
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
first_great_western
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Bristol

Showing times and prices for Jan 09

Cheapest price

$36

Average price

$36

Fastest journey

49 m

Average duration

51 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

41 km

Cheap tickets

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 $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Cardiff for Bristol on Fri, Jan 09, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jan 09 the direct trains cover the 41 km distance in an average of 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 49 m .

On Fri, Jan 09 the slowest trains will take 52 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 RailP22983
09:00AM0h51
Cardiff Central (CDF)
09:51AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$361One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP22723
08:27AM0h52
Cardiff Central (CDF)
09:19AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$361One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP22982
08:00AM0h52
Cardiff Central (CDF)
08:52AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$361One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP22725
09:28AM0h49
Cardiff Central (CDF)
10:17AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$361One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP22797+CrossCountryC72652
09:19AM0h53
Cardiff Central (CDF)
10:12AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$361One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Bristol

Omio 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 18m. 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 €9.

Distance: 25 miles (41 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

€23

Average price

€9

Average price

Cheapest

1h 49m

Average total duration

1h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Great Western Rail

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Cardiff to Bristol train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bristol trains for today, Thursday, January 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 7:16 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
great_westernP22982
On time
8:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h52
8:52 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP22723
On time
8:27 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h52
9:19 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP22796+cross_countryC75133
On time
8:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h52
9:30 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
1 transfer
great_westernP22983
On time
9:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h51
9:51 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP22797+cross_countryC72652
On time
9:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h53
10:12 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
1 transfer
great_westernP22725
On time
9:28 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h49
10:17 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
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 Bristol 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.

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Why should you book Cardiff to Bristol trains with Omio?

Great Western Rail as well as CrossCountry, Transport for Wales and first_great_western offer trains services from Cardiff to Bristol. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Bristol.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Rail?

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

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Great Western Rail tickets can be bought on Great Western Rail's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales and first_great_western to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cardiff to Bristol.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Bristol.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Bristol?

The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Bristol is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Bristol route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Bristol per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cardiff to Bristol.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Bristol

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Bristol run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) but you can travel from only $7 (€5) by bus.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 25 miles (41 km) distance in 27m.

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 $7 (€5)
Distance
25 miles (41 km)
Average train duration
1h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
$11 (€9)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
27m
First train
00:30
Last train
23:41
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 $7 (€5)

Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, first_great_western from Cardiff to Bristol trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Bristol from $7 (€5). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Rail

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
27m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
Great Western Rail frequency
8 a day
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

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
2h 12m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
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
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€22)
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
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

first_great_western

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
46m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
first_great_western frequency
50 a day

Train tickets from Cardiff to Bristol: when to book to save $

Time Price Savings
1 week earlier 10 €
2 weeks earlier 9 €11%
3 weeks earlier 7 €43%
1 month before 6 €67%
2 months earlier 6 €67%
3 months earlier 6 €67%


Train companies often offer promotional prices and offers—by buying in advance—you can get access the best prices for trains in the U.S., Canada, and the major European railroad operators. Search on Omio to check prices and cheap train tickets from Cardiff - Bristol. Easily find the most attractive rates and choose the your preferred route for your journey. Book and choose your mobile ticket: avoid the queues at the station and the added stress of printing your ticket.

The rule of buying in advance to save money is not only valid when booking a flight but also for train travel. Train tickets are generally on sale 6 months before the departure date. Some train booking tips from us:

  • Buying your train ticket from Cardiff - Bristol 3 weeks in advance means you can save on average up to 43% compared to the price available on the day of departure.
  • If you book a ticket Cardiff - Bristol with 2 months in advance you save up to about 67% compared to the initial price.
  • By booking 3 months in advance, you could save up to 67%.
  • On Omio you can find all offers, train times and prices for train travel in Europe, the U.S., and Canada.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Bristol

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.

FAQs
Yes, a day trip from Cardiff to Bristol is feasible. The travel time is 27m, the distance is 25 miles (41 km), and trains run 8 times per day.
In Bristol, you can visit the Bristol Zoo Gardens for diverse animal exhibits and take a boat tour along the River Avon for unique city views. Explore vibrant street art in the Stokes Croft area and visit the Arnolfini for contemporary arts exhibitions. Enjoy Brandon Hill Park, home to the historic Cabot Tower. Don't miss the Clifton Suspension Bridge for panoramic views of the Avon Gorge and the Bristol Cathedral with its stunning Gothic architecture. Explore the SS Great Britain, a restored passenger steamship and museum, and the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery for diverse collections. St Nicholas Market offers a vibrant experience with food stalls and local crafts.
To fully experience Bristol, including its historic sites, vibrant arts scene, and nearby attractions, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Bristol is 25 miles (41 km).
The train from Cardiff to Bristol takes 27m and runs 8 per day.
The train journey from Cardiff to Bristol offers a mix of urban and rural views, with stretches of countryside and glimpses of the Severn Estuary, providing a moderately scenic experience.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Bristol is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Bristol Temple Meads (BRI).
The last train from Cardiff to Bristol leaves at 11:41 PM.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Bristol can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $28 (€23).
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Bristol.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Bristol.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Bristol is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€5).
The first train from Cardiff to Bristol leaves at 12:30 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Bristol.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Bristol. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Great Western Rail, first_great_western.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Bristol

Cardiff
Bristol
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 Bristol.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
Dining
  • Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
  • Pret a Manger
  • Tesco Express
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
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
Hotel
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff
  • Cardiff Marriott Hotel
  • Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Information Desk
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
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
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
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: to the right of the station front
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
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.

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