- 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 Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
€58
Average ticket price on Aug 29
€58
Fastest journey on Aug 29
3 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
3 h 25 m
Trains on Aug 29
1
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 €58 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €58.
Fast trains
On Sat, Aug 29, we found 1 trains from Cardiff to Derby, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 198 km distance in an average of 3 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 25 m .
On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 3 h 25 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.
12:05 PM3h25Cardiff3:30 PMDerby€581One-way0 transfers
- 12:05 PM3h25Cardiff3:30 PMDerby€581One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Derby
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Derby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €51 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 14m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €51, while a train costs an average of €57.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€57 Average price | €51 Average price Cheapest | €54 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 14m Average total duration Fastest 2h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 20m Average total duration 7h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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 Derby is a bus with an average price of €51.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Derby:
A bus is €6 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Derby costing on average €57.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Derby is by train with an average journey time of 2h 44m.
Other travel options to Derby take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Derby including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Derby among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 26m sooner (2h 44m by train vs 3h 10m by car). Tickets start at around €57 compared to roughly €54 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Cross Country.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cardiff to Derby train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Derby trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:05 PM Cardiff | 3h25 | 3:30 PM Derby | 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 Derby 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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Aug 29
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Why should you book Cardiff to Derby trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales and more offer 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Derby.
- 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.
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 €24 but you can travel from only €21 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 €21
Distance 123 miles (198 km) |
Average train duration 2h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price €24 |
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 Wed |
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 €21
Train companies: CrossCountry from Cardiff to Derby trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Derby from €21. 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
€24
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 €24, while the average price is around €57.
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 Cross Country.
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 cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Derby is by bus, with a cost of around €21.
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.
A day trip from Cardiff to Derby is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 25m. However, there are 6 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 123 miles (198 km).
For a fulfilling visit, spending 2 to 3 days in Derby allows you to explore its key attractions such as the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Derby Cathedral, and the nearby Peak District.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Derby.
Since neither Cardiff nor Derby 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 Derby include Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Burton-on-Trent.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Derby 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 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, with some services arriving at Spondon. 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.
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.
Heath High LevelHeath High Level station, Heath Halt Road, Heath, Cardiff, CF23 5QT
City-centre transport
Getting to Heath High Level from Cardiff city centre
Heath High Level is 4 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPenarth - Coryton, Penarth - Caerphilly, Bridgend - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach · 4m · €1 · every ~13 min
Penarth - Coryton, Penarth - Caerphilly, Bridgend - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach · 8m · €2 · every ~13 min
Bus28, 29 · 23m · €2 · every ~6 min
Heath High Level train station facilities and services
Heath High Level 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 Heath High Level.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heath High Level: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Heath High Level: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heath High Level: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. The station is not suitable for wheelchair or powered mobility scooter users. Platform 1 (to Rhymney) has a long, steep access ramp. Platform 2 (to Cardiff) is only accessible via 41 steps. Customers travelling from the Rhymney Valley are advised to alight at Cardiff Queen Street and return to Heath Low Level, 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 Derby station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Derby most often arrive at Derby. Some services arrive at Spondon, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Derby arrival station.
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.
SpondonSpondon station, Station Road, Spondon, Derbyshire, DE21 7RX
City-centre transport
Getting to Spondon from Derby city centre
Spondon is 4 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainMatlock - Cleethorpes, Matlock - Lincoln Central, Matlock - Nottingham, Derby - Nottingham, Crewe - Lincoln Central, Matlock - Market Rasen, Ambergate - Lincoln Central, Derby - Lincoln Central, Ambergate - Cleethorpes · 4m · €2 · every ~2 min
Bus20 · 19m · €4 · every ~6 min
20 · 39m · €2 · every ~6 min
Spondon train station facilities and services
Spondon has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Spondon.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Spondon: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Spondon: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Spondon: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. This station has a degree of step free access to the platform which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check for details. Level ramped access to both platforms from level crossing. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on IUP, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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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