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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Cheltenham
Showing times and prices for Jun 02
Cheapest price
$15
Average price
$22
Fastest journey
1 h 16 m
Average duration
1 h 19 m
Trains per day
4
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 $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $15.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cardiff for Cheltenham on Tue, Jun 02, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 02 the direct trains cover the 89 km distance in an average of 1 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 16 m .
On Tue, Jun 02 the slowest trains will take 1 h 24 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.
8:10 AM1h16Cardiff9:26 AMCheltenham$151One-way0 transfers- 6:10 AM1h19Cardiff7:29 AMCheltenham$191One-way0 transfers
- 7:10 AM1h16Cardiff8:26 AMCheltenham$191One-way0 transfers
5:48 AM1h24Cardiff7:12 AMCheltenham$371One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 AM1h16Cardiff9:26 AMCheltenham$151One-way0 transfers
- 7:10 AM1h16Cardiff8:26 AMCheltenham$191One-way0 transfers
- 6:10 AM1h19Cardiff7:29 AMCheltenham$191One-way0 transfers
- 5:48 AM1h24Cardiff7:12 AMCheltenham$371One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Cheltenham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Cheltenham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $12.
Distance: 55 miles (89 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$20 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $26 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 48m Average total duration 2h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Cheltenham is a bus with an average price of $12 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Cheltenham:
A bus is $8 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Cheltenham costing on average $20 (€16).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Cheltenham is by train with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to Cheltenham take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Cheltenham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Cheltenham among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 13m faster (1h 11m by train vs 1h 24m by car) and roughly $6 (€5) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($20 (€16) vs $26 (€21)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Cross Country, Transport for Wales.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cardiff to Cheltenham train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Cheltenham trains for today, Monday, June 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Y62071 | On time 12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h17 | 1:27 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G15046 · G15219 | Delayed 11:23 AM 12:18 PMCardiff Central (CDF) | 1h26 | 1:44 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1 transfer | |
 G00947 | On time 12:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h13 | 1:58 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Y62070 | On time 1:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h17 | 2:27 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W35434 · Y41800 | On time 1:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h27 | 2:45 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1 transfer | |
| G00905 | On time 1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h13 | 2:58 PM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, June 2 | |||||
| 5:48 AM Cardiff | 1h24 | 7:12 AM Cheltenham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:10 AM Cardiff | 1h19 | 7:29 AM Cheltenham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:10 AM Cardiff | 1h16 | 8:26 AM Cheltenham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 AM Cardiff | 1h16 | 9:26 AM Cheltenham | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Cheltenham by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Tue
Jun 02
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Why should you book Cardiff to Cheltenham trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more 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, Great Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) 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, Great Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Cheltenham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
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 $7 (€6) by bus.
There are 4 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 1h 10m.
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 (€6)
Distance 55 miles (89 km) |
Average train duration 1h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 1h 10m |
First train 4:30 AM |
Last train 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 14 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 $7 (€6)
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff to Cheltenham trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff and Cheltenham from $7 (€6). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
1h 13m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
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 Duration
1h 10m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
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
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
1h 24m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 8m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€80)
Cross Country frequency
5 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 14m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€75)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
12 a day
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.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Cheltenham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $20 (€16).
The train from Cardiff to Cheltenham takes 1h 10m 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.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Cheltenham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Cheltenham. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Cross Country, Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Cheltenham.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Cheltenham is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Cheltenham Spa (CNM).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Cheltenham is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€6).
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, a day trip from Cardiff to Cheltenham is feasible. The journey takes 1h 10m and covers 55 miles (89 km), with a frequency of 7 trains per day.
In Cheltenham, you can enjoy the renowned Cheltenham Literature Festival, take a scenic walk or boat ride at Pittville Park, and explore diverse art collections at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum. Experience the thrill of horse racing at Cheltenham Racecourse and discover vibrant cafes and boutique shops in the Montpellier District. Don't miss the historic Pittville Pump Room and the Sandford Parks Lido for outdoor swimming.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Cheltenham allows you to explore its Regency architecture, enjoy cultural attractions like the Cheltenham Festivals, and visit nearby Cotswolds villages.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Cheltenham.
Since neither Cardiff nor Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham include Bristol, Birmingham, Gloucester, Stonehouse, Swindon.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Cheltenham 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 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
Cardiff
Cheltenham
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 Cheltenham.
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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information 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
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 06:10 - 12:40 Saturday 08:10 - 14:40 Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: Transport for Wales
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) via a footbridge with lifts. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Pontypridd) from the station car park. Access between the platforms is via a footbridge with lifts
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: There are two ticket machines. One accepts cash and the other accepts payment by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: On the Pontypridd-bound platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
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 Llandaf
- Onward travel information: No bus stops at station but available nearby in Station Road.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stop outside The Railway Inn for Cardiff direction; opposite side of the road for Pontypridd direction.
The major train station for arrivals in Cheltenham is Cheltenham Spa. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cheltenham Spa for your journey to Cheltenham from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Address
Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United KingdomTicket Office Hours
- 6:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible from Queens Road.
Dining
- The Railway Inn
- The Coconut Tree
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- £0.50
Hotel
- Queens Hotel Cheltenham
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham
- Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham
Lost and Found Office
- Located near the main entrance
Bike Parking
- 300 places, covered
Information Desk
- Located near the main entrance
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main concourse with ticketing facilities and waiting areas, with platforms accessible via lifts and stairs.
Public transit options for Cheltenham Spa
- Bus: Several local bus services available
- Taxi: Taxi rank outside the station
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Cheltenham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cheltenham and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Cheltenham
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