- Must visit
Brodsworth Hall and Gardens
Historic country house with restored rooms, gardens, and stories of coal-mining philanthropy. A leading heritage attraction just outside central Doncaster.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Doncaster
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$53
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$90
Fastest journey on Sep 05
4 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
4 h 20 m
Trains on Sep 05
3
Distance
266 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 3 trains from Cardiff to Doncaster, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct trains cover the 266 km distance in an average of 4 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 10 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest trains will take 4 h 37 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.
1:45 PM4h12Cardiff5:57 PMDoncaster$531One-way0 transfers- 9:45 AM4h10Cardiff1:55 PMDoncaster$951One-way0 transfers
- 12:45 PM4h37Cardiff5:22 PMDoncaster$1211One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 AM4h10Cardiff1:55 PMDoncaster$951One-way0 transfers
- 1:45 PM4h12Cardiff5:57 PMDoncaster$531One-way0 transfers
- 12:45 PM4h37Cardiff5:22 PMDoncaster$1211One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Doncaster
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Doncaster among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $33 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 39m. 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 $33, while a train costs an average of $90.
Distance: 165 miles (266 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$90 Average price | $33 Average price Cheapest | $74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 39m Average total duration Fastest 4h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 8m Average total duration 5h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg 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 Doncaster is a bus with an average price of $33.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Doncaster:
A bus is $57 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Doncaster costing on average $90.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Doncaster is by train with an average journey time of 4h 9m.
Other travel options to Doncaster take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Doncaster including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 $90 compared to roughly $74 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-16.21. The journey takes 4h 9m versus 3h 52m 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 Doncaster train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Doncaster trains for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G66712 · G00698 | On time 8:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h11 | 12:56 PM Doncaster station (DON) | 1 transfer | |
 G38967+ W84683 | On time 8:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h41 | 1:36 PM Doncaster station (DON) | 1 transfer | |
| G01067 · G00701 | On time 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h10 | 1:55 PM Doncaster station (DON) | 1 transfer | |
| G01067 · G00701 | On time 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h10 | 1:55 PM Doncaster station (DON) | 1 transfer | |
| G38950+W84689 | On time 9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h43 | 2:36 PM Doncaster station (DON) | 1 transfer | |
| G00941 · G00706 | On time 10:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h13 | 2:58 PM Doncaster station (DON) | 1 transfer | |
| G00941 · G00706 | On time 10:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h13 | 2:58 PM Doncaster station (DON) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Doncaster by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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
Sep 05
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Why should you book Cardiff to Doncaster trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Doncaster.
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 Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Doncaster.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Doncaster.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Doncaster
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Doncaster run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $84 but you can travel from only $17 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 20:21. The fastest train covers the 165 miles (266 km) distance in 4h 11m.
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 $17
Distance 165 miles (266 km) |
Average train duration 4h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $84 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 11m |
First train 4:15 AM |
Last train 8:21 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 $17
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Cardiff to Doncaster trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Doncaster from $17. 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
4h 11m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$84
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
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 Transport for Wales Duration
4h 43m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$225
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
4h 1m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
$295
Cross Country frequency
8 a day
Complete guide to Doncaster
Things to do in Doncaster
Discover the best of Doncaster — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Doncaster trip today.
- Recommended
South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum
Major aviation museum on the former RAF Doncaster site with wartime aircraft, exhibits, and family activities. One of the town's best-known visitor attractions.
- Recommended
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum
Large railway museum by Doncaster station with locomotives, simulators, and engineering stories. Ideal for understanding the town's rail heritage.
- Recommended
Sir Nigel Gresley Square
Central civic square beside the markets and theatre. A practical starting point for exploring shops, events, heritage buildings, and everyday town life.
- Recommended
Town Field
Popular park with open lawns, a lake, sports facilities, and event space. A long-time local favourite close to the racecourse and town centre.
- Recommended
Cusworth Hall Park
Large heritage parkland around a historic house, with lakes, woodland, and walking trails. Excellent for scenery, wildlife, and relaxed outdoor time.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding is a classic baked batter served with roast meat and gravy. It is a staple across Yorkshire and strongly tied to Sunday roasts in Doncaster.
Yorkshire Roast Beef Dinner
Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and gravy is a traditional Yorkshire Sunday lunch widely eaten in Doncaster pubs and homes.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Parkin
Parkin is a sticky ginger cake made with oats, treacle and syrup. It is a beloved Yorkshire treat, especially around autumn and Bonfire Night.
The Wool Market
Stylish modern British restaurant in the city centre, known for polished small plates, steaks and cocktails in a smart but relaxed setting.
Doncaster Market
Popular historic market food hall with varied traders, casual seating and a lively local atmosphere. Good for tasting several local favourites.
The Cumberland
Well-regarded traditional pub near the racecourse area, serving hearty British meals, ales and a comfortable setting suited to a classic roast.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels, dining, and local transport are usually cheaper than London and many major UK tourist cities.
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
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Travel South Yorkshire
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.30
To the city center
Doncaster Sheffield Airport -> Doncaster Frenchgate Interchange
- Distance
- 10 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most local buses, but carry a backup payment method in case a specific operator has restrictions.
- Buy tickets and check live departures in the Travel South Yorkshire app before boarding to save time at busy interchanges.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Doncaster
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 Doncaster, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Doncaster can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $84, while the average price is around $90.
The train from Cardiff to Doncaster takes 4h 11m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Doncaster leaves at 4:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Doncaster is 165 miles (266 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Doncaster leaves at 8:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Doncaster.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Doncaster.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Doncaster is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Doncaster station (DON).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Doncaster is by bus, with a cost of around $17.
The train journey from Cardiff to Doncaster offers some scenic views, particularly as it passes through the rolling landscapes of South Wales and the picturesque countryside of the Midlands, providing a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
A day trip from Cardiff to Doncaster is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 11m each way. However, there are 4 trains per day covering the 165 miles (266 km) distance.
In Doncaster, you can explore Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, a Victorian country house with beautiful gardens, and enjoy birdwatching at Potteric Carr Nature Reserve. For leisure activities, The Dome offers swimming, ice skating, and fitness facilities. Discover local history at Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery or visit Boston Park Farm for family fun with animals and a maize maze. Don't miss the best sights including Conisbrough Castle with panoramic views, the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster Racecourse with its historic events, Cusworth Hall with its museum and gardens, and the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum showcasing aviation history.
A visit of 2 to 3 days in Doncaster is ideal to explore its attractions, such as the Doncaster Market, Yorkshire Wildlife Park, and Cusworth Hall.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Since neither Cardiff nor Doncaster 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 Doncaster include Leeds, London, Sheffield, Manchester, York.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 Doncaster, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who are not licensed and counterfeit ticket sales for local events or transportation. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using official services helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Doncaster
Most Cardiff to Doncaster trains use the Cardiff Central to Doncaster station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Doncaster 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 Doncaster
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.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which Doncaster station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Doncaster arrive at Doncaster. Doncaster is from Doncaster city centre.
DoncasterDoncaster station, Station Court, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN1 1PE
City-centre transport
Getting to Doncaster from Doncaster city centre
Bus399 · 3m · $5
384, 387, 388, 384A, 385A, 387A · 5m · every ~18 min
Doncaster train station facilities and services
Doncaster has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Doncaster.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Doncaster. ATMs are available at Doncaster.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Doncaster.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Doncaster: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Doncaster: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Doncaster: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: Phones are low level but not text, Accessible taxis: Advance booking not required, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: , 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 Doncaster
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Doncaster and Cardiff
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