1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Darlington
Showing times and prices for Nov 06
Cheapest price
$94
Average price
$94
Fastest journey
6 h 49 m
Average duration
6 h 49 m
Trains per day
1
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 $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $94.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cardiff for Darlington on Thu, Nov 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Nov 06 the direct trains cover the 356 km distance in an average of 6 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 49 m .
On Thu, Nov 06 the slowest trains will take 6 h 49 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.
06:53AM6h49
Cardiff01:42PMDarlington
$941One-way
0 transfers
06:53AM6h49
Cardiff01:42PMDarlington
$941One-way
0 transfers
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 €26. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 19m. 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 €26, and a train costs an average of €77.
Distance: 221 miles (356 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€145 Average price | €52 Average price Cheapest |
5h 49m Average total duration Fastest 5h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 1m Average total duration 7h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg 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 Darlington train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Darlington trains for today, Wednesday, November 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 5:18 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:45 AM Cardiff | 5h13 | 2:58 PM Darlington | 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 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.
Thu
Nov 06
Nov 06
Fri
Nov 07
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Nov 12
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 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $94 (€77) but you can travel from only $31 (€26) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 23:22. The fastest train covers the 221 miles (356 km) distance in 5h 25m.
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 $31 (€26)
Distance 221 miles (356 km) |
Average train duration 5h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $94 (€77) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 25m |
First train 03:40 |
Last train 23:22 |
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 $31 (€26)
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Darlington trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Darlington from $31 (€26). 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 53m
Cheapest Price
$86 (€70)
Transport for Wales frequency
2 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
5h 13m
Cheapest Price
$141 (€116)
CrossCountry frequency
4 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 58m
Cheapest Price
$412 (€337)
Cross Country frequency
4 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 4m
Cheapest Price
$423 (€346)
first_great_western frequency
7 a day
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.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Darlington is 221 miles (356 km).
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.
The first train from Cardiff to Darlington leaves at 3:40 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Darlington leaves at 11:22 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Darlington.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Darlington.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Darlington.
A day trip from Cardiff to Darlington is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 25m each way, and trains run 6 times per day.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Darlington can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $94 (€77), while the average price is around $177 (€145).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Darlington is by bus, with a cost of around $31 (€26).
The train from Cardiff to Darlington takes 5h 25m and runs 6 per day.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Darlington is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Darlington station (DAR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Darlington.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Darlington
Cardiff
Darlington
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cathays. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cathays for your trip from Cardiff to Darlington.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike 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
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibility
WCHotelLost 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.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike 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)
The major train station for arrivals in Darlington is Darlington. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Darlington for your journey to Darlington from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 19:00 Saturday 07:00 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 18:00
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Main Concourse; these toilets can be accessed from all platforms. The National key toilets are adjacent to Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from the Customer Reception on Platform 1 upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: This station has heated waiting rooms available. Seating is available at an accessible height in the waiting room and on platforms
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: stations front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Darlington
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement coach services depart from the station entrance
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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
