- Must visit
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Derby’s leading museum with art, archaeology, and natural history, best known for its important Joseph Wright collection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Derby
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
$48
Average ticket price on Oct 13
$83
Fastest journey on Oct 13
2 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
2 h 48 m
Trains on Oct 13
3
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Derby is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Derby will cost around $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast trains
On Tue, Oct 13, we found 3 trains from Cardiff to Derby, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 13 the direct trains cover the 198 km distance in an average of 2 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 45 m .
On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest trains will take 2 h 52 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.
11:45 AM2h45Cardiff2:30 PMDerby$481One-way0 transfers- 5:45 PM2h46Cardiff8:31 PMDerby$571One-way0 transfers
- 9:49 AM2h52Cardiff12:41 PMDerby$1431One-way0 transfers
- 11:45 AM2h45Cardiff2:30 PMDerby$481One-way0 transfers
- 5:45 PM2h46Cardiff8:31 PMDerby$571One-way0 transfers
- 9:49 AM2h52Cardiff12:41 PMDerby$1431One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Derby
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Derby run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 but you can travel from only $26 by bus.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 21:32. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 2h 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 $26
Distance 123 miles (198 km) |
Average train duration 2h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 2h 25m |
First train 5:14 AM |
Last train 9:32 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 28 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 $26
Live departures
Cardiff to Derby train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Derby trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:49 AM Cardiff | 2h52 | 12:41 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:45 AM Cardiff | 2h45 | 2:30 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:45 PM Cardiff | 2h46 | 8:31 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Derby trains with Omio?
CrossCountry operates all trains services from Cardiff to Derby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Derby.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Derby.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Derby.
Train companies: CrossCountry from Cardiff to Derby trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Derby from $26. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 25m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$29
CrossCountry frequency
6 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 Derby
Things to do in Derby
Discover the best of Derby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Derby trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill
Excellent museum of making in a restored silk mill, exploring Derby’s industrial innovation with interactive displays and river views.
- Recommended
Pickford's House Museum
Historic Georgian house with period rooms and changing displays, offering an intimate look at local life and Derby’s past residents.
- Must visit
Darley Park
Riverside public park with mature trees, gardens, and monuments, ideal for a gentle walk close to Derby’s museums and cathedral.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Compact historic quarter around the cathedral with cobbled lanes, galleries, and heritage buildings, full of local character.
- Recommended
Market Place
Main city-centre square framed by historic buildings, markets, and events; a practical starting point for exploring central Derby.
- Vegetarian
Derbyshire Apple Pudding
A classic Derbyshire pudding of stewed apples topped with a pastry crust. It is a long-standing regional dessert found in local homes and pubs.
- Vegetarian
Derby Sage Cheese Cob
Bread or rolls filled with melted Derby Sage cheese and onion. This simple local snack highlights the county's famous herb-flavoured cheese.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton
A crumbly blue-veined cheese made in Derbyshire. It is one of England's best-known regional cheeses and a staple on local cheeseboards.
Restaurant Zamanis
Refined modern British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting. One of Derby's best-known fine dining destinations.
The Dining Room
Stylish restaurant and wine bar serving British and European dishes. Popular for polished cooking and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
The Brunswick Inn
Historic pub in a former railway building, known for cask ales and classic pub meals. A strong choice for Derby beer culture.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
trentbarton
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city center
Derby Railway Station -> Derby Riverlights Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on many Derby buses, including trentbarton services. Check the operator before boarding if you need a specific payment method.
- Derby has no tram or metro system, so local public transport is mainly by bus. Buy tickets in the operator app if you want faster boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Derby
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Derby 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 Derby, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Derby can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29, while the average price is around $68.
The train from Cardiff to Derby takes 2h 25m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Derby leaves at 5:14 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Derby is 123 miles (198 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Derby leaves at 9:32 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Derby.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Derby. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Derby.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Derby is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Derby station (DBY).
The train journey from Cardiff to Derby offers varied scenery, including rolling hills and picturesque countryside, particularly through the regions of the Welsh borders and the Midlands, providing a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Derby.
Popular day trips by train from Derby include Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Burton-on-Trent.
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 Derby, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and counterfeit tickets for events or attractions. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, purchase tickets from official vendors, and stay vigilant in crowded places to ensure safety.
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 Derby
Most Cardiff to Derby trains use the Cardiff Central to Derby station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Derby 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 Derby
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.
Which Derby station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Derby arrive at Derby. Derby is 0 miles (1 km) from Derby city centre.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby from Derby city centre
Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · $2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · $1 · every ~2 min
Derby train station facilities and services
Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Derby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Derby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Derby.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Derby: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Derby
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Derby and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Derby
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