- Must visit
Hopetown Darlington
Major railway museum on the original Stockton and Darlington Railway route. Exhibits, locomotives, and restored buildings explain Darlington's rail legacy.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Darlington
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€338
Average price
€342
Fastest journey
5 h 8 m
Average duration
5 h 11 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
356 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Darlington is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Darlington will cost around €342 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €338.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Darlington without transferring at least once.
7:45 AM5h08Cardiff12:53 PMDarlington€3381One-way1 transfer- 8:45 AM5h22Cardiff2:07 PMDarlington€3381One-way1 transfer
- 9:45 AM5h08Cardiff2:53 PMDarlington€3381One-way1 transfer
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5:54 AM5h11Cardiff11:05 AMDarlington€3451One-way1 transfer- 6:51 AM5h14Cardiff12:05 PMDarlington€3451One-way1 transfer
- 7:45 AM5h08Cardiff12:53 PMDarlington€3381One-way1 transfer
- 9:45 AM5h08Cardiff2:53 PMDarlington€3381One-way1 transfer
- 5:54 AM5h11Cardiff11:05 AMDarlington€3451One-way1 transfer
- 6:51 AM5h14Cardiff12:05 PMDarlington€3451One-way1 transfer
- 7:49 AM5h16Cardiff1:05 PMDarlington€3451One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Darlington
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Darlington among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €50. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €50, and a train costs an average of €57.
Distance: 221 miles (356 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€92 Average price | €63 Average price Cheapest | €81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 43m Average total duration Fastest 5h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 24m Average total duration 7h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg 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 Darlington is a bus with an average price of €63.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Darlington:
A bus is €29 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Darlington costing on average €92.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Darlington is by train with an average journey time of 5h 13m.
Other travel options to Darlington take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Darlington including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Darlington among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €92 compared to roughly €81 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-10.58. The journey takes 5h 13m versus 5h 2m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Cardiff to Darlington train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Darlington trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:54 PM Cardiff | 5h16 | 8:10 PM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| 3:54 PM Cardiff | 5h03 | 8:57 PM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| 4:50 PM Cardiff | 5h21 | 10:11 PM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| 9:45 PM Cardiff | 11h20 | 9:05 AM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 5:54 AM Cardiff | 5h11 | 11:05 AM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| 6:51 AM Cardiff | 5h14 | 12:05 PM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| 7:45 AM Cardiff | 5h08 | 12:53 PM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| 7:49 AM Cardiff | 5h16 | 1:05 PM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| 8:45 AM Cardiff | 5h22 | 2:07 PM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
| 9:45 AM Cardiff | 5h08 | 2:53 PM Darlington | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Darlington 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 Darlington trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Darlington.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Darlington.
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, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Darlington.
- 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 Darlington.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Darlington.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Darlington.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Darlington
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Darlington run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €57 but you can travel from only €50 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 19:12. The fastest train covers the 221 miles (356 km) distance in 5h 21m.
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 €50
Distance 221 miles (356 km) |
Average train duration 5h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price €57 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 21m |
First train 4:15 AM |
Last train 7:12 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 €50
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff to Darlington trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff and Darlington from €50. 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
5h 55m
Cheapest Price
€70
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
5h 21m
Cheapest Price
€57
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 8m
Cheapest Price
€320
Cross Country frequency
5 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 3m
Cheapest Price
€345
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
7 a day
Complete guide to Darlington
Things to do in Darlington
Discover the best of Darlington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Darlington trip today.
- Recommended
MIMA School of Art Gallery
University arts venue nearby with contemporary exhibitions, installations, and events. A good choice for modern art in the wider Darlington area.
- Recommended
Piercebridge Roman Fort Museum
Roman fort and archaeology museum a short trip from Darlington. Finds, reconstructions, and river views make it a strong regional heritage visit.
- Recommended
High Row
Historic town centre street lined with shops and civic buildings. It is central to exploring Darlington's market character and Victorian urban fabric.
- Recommended
Market Place
Traditional covered market area with surrounding lanes and street life. It is ideal for soaking up local atmosphere in a compact historic setting.
- Recommended
South Park
Large town park with formal gardens, a café building, aviary area, and bandstand. It is one of Darlington's best-loved green spaces for a stroll.
Parmo
A Teesside takeaway classic: chicken in a creamy béchamel-style sauce with chips. It is strongly associated with nearby Middlesbrough and the wider area.
Pan Haggerty Broth
A rich North East beef and vegetable broth, slowly cooked with pearl barley or split peas. It is a traditional working-class staple in County Durham homes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pan Haggerty
Layered potatoes, onions and cheese baked until golden. A beloved North East comfort dish, often served in pubs and homes across Durham and Teesside.
The Old Yard Tapas Bar
Well-known traditional pub venue serving cask ales and hearty British favourites in a historic, characterful atmosphere.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill
Established town-centre restaurant known for polished British and European cooking in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Akbar The Great
Popular Indian restaurant with a strong local reputation for classic curries, attentive service and a comfortable modern dining room.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and trains are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis; cafes usually do not expect tips.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Darlington Station -> Darlington Town Centre
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Darlington. Buy tickets in the app for faster boarding.
- Most local bus tickets are operator-specific, so check your bus company before boarding. Darlington town centre is walkable from the rail station.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Darlington
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Darlington 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 Darlington, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Darlington can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €57, while the average price is around €92.
The train from Cardiff to Darlington takes 5h 21m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Darlington leaves at 4:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Darlington is 221 miles (356 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Darlington leaves at 7:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Darlington.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Darlington. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Darlington.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Darlington is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Darlington station (DAR).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Darlington is by bus, with a cost of around €50.
The train journey from Cardiff to Darlington offers a mix of urban and countryside scenery, with views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and stretches of picturesque landscapes typical of the Welsh and English countryside.
A day trip from Cardiff to Darlington is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 21m each way, and trains run 6 times per day.
For a fulfilling visit to Darlington, spending 2 to 3 days should be sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Head of Steam Railway Museum, South Park, and the Darlington Hippodrome, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Darlington.
Since neither Cardiff nor Darlington 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 Darlington include Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Leeds, York, Thornaby.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Darlington 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 Darlington, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and train stations. Be wary of unofficial taxi services to avoid overcharging. It's also advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Always use licensed transportation and stay informed about local safety updates.
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 Darlington
Most Cardiff to Darlington trains use the Cardiff Central to Darlington station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Darlington 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 Darlington
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
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.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
City-centre transport
Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · €1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cathays train station facilities and services
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Waun-gron ParkWaun-Gron Park station, Waungron Road, Waungron Park, Cardiff, CF5 2BN+44 333 321 1202
City-centre transport
Getting to Waun-gron Park from Cardiff city centre
Waun-gron Park is 3 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Central - Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil - Aberdare, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · €1 · every ~4 min
Bus61, 32, 101, 102 · 15m · €4 · every ~14 min
61, 32, 101, 102 · 18m · €4 · every ~14 min
Waun-gron Park train station facilities and services
Waun-gron Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Waun-gron Park.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Waun-gron Park: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Waun-gron Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Waun-gron Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Radyr) and Platform 2 (to Cardiff) from Waungron Road via ramps with handrails and a steep gradient. Access between the platforms is via the ramps and beneath the railway bridge on Waungron Road, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Darlington station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Darlington arrive at Darlington. Darlington is from Darlington city centre.
DarlingtonDarlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Darlington from Darlington city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement coach services depart from the station entrance
Darlington train station facilities and services
Darlington has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Darlington.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Darlington.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Darlington.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Darlington: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Darlington: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Darlington: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: text phones are available and staff are on hand to assist as required due to no low level phones, Accessible taxis: Generally available but advance booking recommended, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Darlington
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Darlington and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Darlington
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