Cardiff to Cheltenham train with Great Western Railway

Tue, Oct 20
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Cheltenham

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 20

Cheapest price on Oct 20

$17

Average ticket price on Oct 20

$28

Fastest journey on Oct 20

1 h 9 m

Average journey duration on Oct 20

1 h 11 m

Trains on Oct 20

31

Distance

89 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Cheltenham will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.

Fast trains

On Tue, Oct 20, we found 31 trains from Cardiff to Cheltenham, including 16 direct services.

On Tue, Oct 20 the direct trains cover the 89 km distance in an average of 1 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 9 m .

On Tue, Oct 20 the slowest trains will take 1 h 13 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.

  • Transport for WalesG39598
    8:10 AM1h16
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    9:26 AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for WalesY61971
    11:10 AM1h17
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:27 PMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for WalesY61973
    9:10 AM1h17
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    10:27 AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for WalesW44760
    2:10 PM1h16
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    3:26 PMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for WalesY62022
    3:10 PM1h17
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    4:27 PMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Cheltenham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Cheltenham run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) but you can travel from only $8 (€7) by bus.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 55 miles (89 km) distance in 59m.

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 $8 (€7)
Distance
55 miles (89 km)
Average train duration
1h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
$12 (€10)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
59m
First train
4:30 AM
Last train
11:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
35 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 $8 (€7)

Live departures

Cardiff to Cheltenham train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Cheltenham trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG395988:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h16
9:26 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15041+CrossCountryG008548:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h21
9:39 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
CrossCountryG667128:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h13
9:58 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesY619739:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h17
10:27 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35432+CrossCountryG667309:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h19
10:38 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
CrossCountryG010679:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h12
10:57 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15043+CrossCountryG00869_G010679:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h21
11:10 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
Transport for WalesY6199410:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h16
11:26 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35178+CrossCountryG6673510:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
11:38 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
CrossCountryG0094110:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h13
11:58 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15044+CrossCountryG0106910:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h21
12:11 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
Transport for WalesY6197111:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h17
12:27 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15045+CrossCountryG0086511:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
12:38 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
CrossCountryG0090011:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h09
12:54 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35182+CrossCountryG0107311:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
1:10 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
Transport for WalesY6207112:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h17
1:27 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15046+CrossCountryG0087212:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
1:38 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
CrossCountryG0094712:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h13
1:58 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15047+CrossCountryG0107512:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
2:10 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
Transport for WalesY620701:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h17
2:27 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35434+CrossCountryG008761:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
2:38 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
CrossCountryG009051:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h13
2:58 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35187+CrossCountryG010801:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
3:10 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
Transport for WalesW447602:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h16
3:26 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35188+CrossCountryG008832:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
3:38 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
CrossCountryG009462:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h13
3:58 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15048+CrossCountryG010822:54 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h16
4:10 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
Transport for WalesY620223:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h17
4:27 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15049+CrossCountryG008883:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h20
4:38 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer
CrossCountryG667973:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h09
4:54 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35194+CrossCountryG010833:54 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h16
5:10 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cardiff to Cheltenham trains with Omio?

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

Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?

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

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Cardiff to Cheltenham trainsGreat Western Railway, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Cheltenham from $8 (€7). 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
59m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$24 (€20)
Great Western Railway frequency
4 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

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 Transport for Wales Duration
1h 11m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$12 (€10)
Transport for Wales frequency
3 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

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
1h 6m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$13 (€11)
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

Complete guide to Cheltenham

Things to do in Cheltenham

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

  • Must visit

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum

Cheltenham's main museum and art gallery, with local history, archaeology, and decorative arts. A top place to understand the town and region.

  • Recommended

The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

Specialist military museum in the former county jail, telling the story of the Gloucestershire Regiment through medals, uniforms, and campaigns.

Railway Museum at Cheltenham Racecourse

Volunteer-run railway museum at Cheltenham Racecourse, featuring locomotives, heritage carriages, and displays on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway.

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are mid-priced, buses are reasonable, and costs are usually lower than London but higher than smaller towns.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple 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, tip 10-12.5% at restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped about 10%. Cafes usually do not require tipping.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Cheltenham

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Cheltenham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $29 (€24).
The train from Cardiff to Cheltenham takes 59m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Cheltenham leaves at 4:30 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Cheltenham is 55 miles (89 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Cheltenham leaves at 11:35 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cardiff to Cheltenham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Cheltenham. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales, CrossCountry.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Cheltenham.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Cheltenham is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Cheltenham Spa (CNM).
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Cheltenham passes through picturesque landscapes, including views of the Severn Estuary and the lush countryside of South Wales and Gloucestershire.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Cheltenham.
Popular day trips by train from Cheltenham include Bristol, Birmingham, Gloucester, Stonehouse, Swindon.
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 Cheltenham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially during busy events like the Cheltenham Festival. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It’s advisable to use licensed transportation and stay vigilant in crowded areas.
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 Cheltenham

Most Cardiff to Cheltenham trains use the Cardiff Central to Cheltenham Spa station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham
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 · $3 · 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 · $3 · 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.

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