Cardiff to Glasgow train with Avanti West Coast

Thu, Oct 29
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Transpennine Express
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Transpennine Express
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Glasgow

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29

Cheapest price on Oct 29

$93

Average ticket price on Oct 29

$208

Fastest journey on Oct 29

6 h 19 m

Average journey duration on Oct 29

6 h 24 m

Trains on Oct 29

15

Distance

493 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Glasgow is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Glasgow will cost around $208 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $93.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Glasgow without transferring at least once.

  • Transport for WalesG38991+Avanti West CoastW34287
    1 transfer
  • Avanti West CoastW34292+Transport for WalesG38983
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38967+Transpennine ExpressW85188
    1 transfer
  • Avanti West CoastW34291 · C01320+CrossCountryG66797
    2 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW34287+Great Western RailwayG15048+CrossCountryG01082
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Glasgow

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Glasgow run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 but you can travel from only $31 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 18:40. The fastest train covers the 306 miles (493 km) distance in 5h 38m.

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
Distance
306 miles (493 km)
Average train duration
6h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$57
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
5h 38m
First train
4:08 AM
Last train
6:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 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 $31

Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Glasgow trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Glasgow.

Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Glasgow can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57, while the average price is around $150.
The train from Cardiff to Glasgow takes 5h 38m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Glasgow leaves at 4:08 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Glasgow is 306 miles (493 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Glasgow leaves at 6:40 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Glasgow.

Live departures

Cardiff to Glasgow train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Glasgow trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33935+Transport for WalesG389678:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h22
3:17 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38967+Transpennine ExpressW851888:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h44
4:39 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38949+Avanti West CoastW34286+Transpennine ExpressW851889:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h46
4:39 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastC01372+CrossCountryG0094110:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h36
5:21 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15044+Avanti West CoastC01372+CrossCountryG0106910:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h31
5:21 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastC01372+Transport for WalesG3897510:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h28
5:21 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34290+Transpennine ExpressW85196+CrossCountryG0090011:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h54
6:39 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38953+Avanti West CoastW34290+Transpennine ExpressW8519611:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h46
6:39 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38983+Avanti West CoastW3429212:55 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h30
7:25 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34289+Transpennine ExpressW85206+CrossCountryG009051:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h54
8:39 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38955+Avanti West CoastW34289+Transpennine ExpressW852061:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h46
8:39 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38991+Avanti West CoastW342872:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h23
9:13 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15048+Avanti West CoastW34287+CrossCountryG010822:54 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h19
9:13 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW34291 · C01320+CrossCountryG667973:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h28
11:13 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers
Transport for WalesY63472+Avanti West CoastW34291 · C013204:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h57
11:13 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cardiff to Glasgow trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Glasgow.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Glasgow.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales or Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Glasgow.
  • 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Glasgow.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales or Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Glasgow.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Glasgow.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry from Cardiff to Glasgow trainsAvanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Glasgow from $31. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
5h 38m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$57
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
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
5h 50m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$68
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

Transpennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
5h 52m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$68
Transpennine Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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 CrossCountry Duration
7h 48m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$84
CrossCountry frequency
3 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Glasgow

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cardiff to Glasgow.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Glasgow.
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.

Complete guide to Glasgow

Things to do in Glasgow

Discover the best of Glasgow — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Glasgow trip today.

  • Must visit

Riverside Museum

Major riverside transport museum with striking architecture, historic vehicles, and interactive displays that explain Glasgow's industrial story.

  • Must visit

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Leading European civic art museum with superb collections, grand galleries, and regular exhibitions in the heart of George Square.

  • Must visit

The Burrell Collection

Elegant mansion with French paintings, decorative arts, and period rooms, set within Pollok Country Park near Highland cattle.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, while transit and attractions are fairly priced for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for fine dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if not already added. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, usually small change.

Plan your visit to Glasgow

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Glasgow.

Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Glasgow is considered scenic, as it passes through picturesque landscapes, including the rolling hills of Wales and the scenic Lake District in England, offering travelers beautiful countryside views along the way.
Popular day trips by train from Glasgow include Edinburgh, Dundee, Stirling, Carlisle, Johnstone.
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 Glasgow, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include unofficial taxi drivers overcharging and distraction techniques used by groups to steal belongings. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, stay alert in busy places, and avoid displaying valuables openly to enhance 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.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Glasgow

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Glasgow 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 Glasgow, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Glasgow.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Glasgow

Most Cardiff to Glasgow trains use the Cardiff Central to Glasgow Central station pair, with some services arriving at Glasgow Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Glasgow 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 Glasgow
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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 · $3 · 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.

RhiwbinaRhiwbina station, off Pen-y-Dre, Rhiwbina, Cardiff, CF14 6EPParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Rhiwbina from Cardiff city centre

Rhiwbina is 5 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 14m · $3 · every ~4 min
Cardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 18m · $4 · every ~4 min
Bus21, 23 · 17m · $3 · every ~12 min
21, 23 · 23m · $3 · every ~12 min

Rhiwbina train station facilities and services

Rhiwbina has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Rhiwbina.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rhiwbina: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Rhiwbina: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rhiwbina: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access to the platform an end of platform ramp, 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.

Train stations for Cardiff to Glasgow

Check train stations information for Cardiff and Glasgow, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Cardiff that goes to Glasgow is Cardiff Central, which connects to Glasgow Central.

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone