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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Cheltenham
Showing times and prices for Jan 17
Cheapest price
$13
Average price
$27
Fastest journey
1 h 13 m
Average duration
1 h 14 m
Trains per day
6
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 $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Cardiff for Cheltenham on Sat, Jan 17, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jan 17 the direct trains cover the 89 km distance in an average of 1 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 13 m .
On Sat, Jan 17 the slowest trains will take 1 h 15 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.
L6569308:10AM1h15
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:25AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$131One-way
0 transfers
L6569909:10AM1h15
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:25AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$131One-way
0 transfers
C7497009:45AM1h13
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:58AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$251One-way
0 transfers
C7496908:45AM1h13
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:58AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$281One-way
0 transfers
L23178+C7490408:23AM1h15
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:38AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$401One-way
1 transfer
C7497009:45AM1h13
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:58AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$251One-way
0 transfers
C7496908:45AM1h13
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:58AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$281One-way
0 transfers
L6569308:10AM1h15
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:25AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$131One-way
0 transfers
L6569909:10AM1h15
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:25AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$131One-way
0 transfers
L23178+C7490408:23AM1h15
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:38AMCheltenham Spa (CNM)
$401One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus 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 €6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 12m. 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 €6, and a train costs an average of €7.
Distance: 55 miles (89 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€20 Average price | €9 Average price Cheapest |
1h 42m Average total duration Fastest 1h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 45m Average total duration 2h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Cheltenham train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Cheltenham trains for tomorrow, Saturday, January 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 7:53 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L65693 | On time 8:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h15 | 9:25 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L23178+C74904 | On time 8:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h15 | 9:38 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1 transfer | |
| C74969 | On time 8:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h13 | 9:58 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L65699 | On time 9:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h15 | 10:25 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L23180+C74906 | On time 9:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h19 | 10:38 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 1 transfer | |
| C74970 | On time 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h13 | 10:58 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 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 Cheltenham 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.
Sat
Jan 17
Jan 17
Sun
Jan 18
Jan 18
Mon
Jan 19
Jan 19
Tue
Jan 20
Jan 20
Wed
Jan 21
Jan 21
Thu
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Jan 22
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Jan 23
Jan 23
Why should you book Cardiff to Cheltenham trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, Great Western Rail and Cross Country 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 Rail and Cross Country 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Cheltenham.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Transport for Wales tickets can be bought on Transport for Wales's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry, Great Western Rail and Cross Country to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cardiff to Cheltenham.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus 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 7 times per day, taking around 1h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) but you can travel from only $7 (€6) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:20, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 55 miles (89 km) distance in 1h 12m.
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 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 1h 12m |
First train 04:20 |
Last train 23:35 |
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 Rail, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Cheltenham trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Rail, Cross Country, first_great_western 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 15m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€9)
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 Duration
1h 9m
Cheapest Price
$15 (€12)
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
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
1h 16m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
Great Western Rail 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 9m
Cheapest Price
$95 (€77)
Cross Country frequency
11 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 14m
Cheapest Price
$101 (€82)
first_great_western frequency
27 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 $9 (€7), while the average price is around $25 (€20).
The train from Cardiff to Cheltenham takes 1h 12m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Cheltenham is 55 miles (89 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Cheltenham leaves at 4:20 AM.
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 Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, 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 12m 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.
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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
- Car Park: No
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
- 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
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
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.
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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