Cardiff to Cambridge train with Great Western Railway

Mon, Nov 09
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Cambridge

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 09
Cheapest price on Nov 09
€75
Average ticket price on Nov 09
€103
Fastest journey on Nov 09
3 h 31 m
Average journey duration on Nov 09
4 h 2 m
Trains on Nov 09
6
Distance
240 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Cambridge will cost around €103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €75.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Cambridge without transferring at least once.

  • Great Western RailwayG15043+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+ThameslinkW45467
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15042+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG27007
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35432+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great NorthernG76998
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15041+TubeTube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+ThameslinkW45428
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG66712 · G00812
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Cambridge run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €46 but you can travel from only €15 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:42, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (240 km) distance in 2h 53m.

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 €15
Distance
149 miles (240 km)
Average train duration
3h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
€46
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 53m
First train
12:42 AM
Last train
9:20 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 €15

Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Cambridge trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Cambridge.

Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €46, while the average price is around €109.
The train from Cardiff to Cambridge takes 2h 53m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Cambridge is 149 miles (240 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Cambridge leaves at 12:42 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Cambridge leaves at 9:20 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Cambridge.

Live departures

Cardiff to Cambridge train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayC00165+Elizabeth lineC37780+ThameslinkW45801
On time
9:39 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h07
1:46 PM Cambridge South
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC00123+Elizabeth lineC37805+Greater AngliaP76310
On time
10:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h45
2:05 PM Cambridge South
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34979 · C05988+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP76322
On time
10:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h40
3:05 PM Cambridge South
3 transfers
Great Western RailwayC33109+Elizabeth lineC37453+Greater AngliaP76322
On time
11:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h45
3:05 PM Cambridge South
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC00850 · C01238+Great NorthernG77029+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
On time
11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h49
4:14 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cardiff to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Thameslink offer trains services from Cardiff to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Cambridge.

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 CrossCountry or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Cambridge.
  • 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 Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Cambridge.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Cambridge.

Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Thameslink from Cardiff to Cambridge trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Thameslink trains will get you between Cardiff and Cambridge from €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 Great Western Railway Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€47
Great Western Railway frequency
5 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 CrossCountry Duration
4h 40m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€46
CrossCountry frequency
2 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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
3h 58m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
€107
Thameslink frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Cambridge

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cardiff to Cambridge.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Cambridge.
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.

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

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

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.

  • Recommended

Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

Plan your visit to Cambridge

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cambridge.

The Cardiff to Cambridge train journey offers a mix of urban and countryside scenery, with views of the rolling hills of South Wales, charming English villages, and the historic landscapes around Oxford and the Chiltern Hills.
Popular day trips by train from Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert 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.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Cambridge

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

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Cambridge.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Cambridge

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

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.

Cardiff BayCardiff Bay station, Bute Street, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5LEParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Bay from Cardiff city centre

Cardiff Bay is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Cardiff Bay, Pontypridd - Cardiff Bay, Cardiff Queen Street - Cardiff Bay, Radyr - Cardiff Bay · 3m · €1 · every ~8 min
Bus6, 305, Sky · 9m · €4 · every ~10 min

Cardiff Bay train station facilities and services

Cardiff Bay has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Bay.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Bay: Parking, Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Bay: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Bay: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Train stations for Cardiff to Cambridge

Check train stations information for Cardiff and Cambridge, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Cardiff that goes to Cambridge is Cardiff Central, which connects to Cambridge.

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