Cardiff to Glasgow train with Avanti West Coast

Sun, Dec 14
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Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
first_great_western
1,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
first_great_western
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Glasgow

Showing times and prices for Dec 17

Cheapest price

$167

Average price

$218

Fastest journey

6 h 24 m

Average duration

6 h 33 m

Trains per day

5

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 $218 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $167.

Fast trains

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

CrossCountryC74997+Avanti West CoastC01379
10:45AM6h36
Cardiff Central (CDF)
05:21PMGlasgow Central (GLC)
$1671One-way
1 transfer
CrossCountryC74968+Avanti West CoastL02372
08:45AM6h32
Cardiff Central (CDF)
03:17PMGlasgow Central (GLC)
$1671One-way
1 transfer
Transport for WalesL64791+Avanti West CoastW02929+TransPennine ExpressC74097
09:53AM6h46
Cardiff Central (CDF)
04:39PMGlasgow Central (GLC)
$2511One-way
2 transfers
Transport for WalesL64810+Avanti West CoastC01379
10:53AM6h28
Cardiff Central (CDF)
05:21PMGlasgow Central (GLC)
$2511One-way
1 transfer
Transport for WalesL64807+Avanti West CoastL02372
08:53AM6h24
Cardiff Central (CDF)
03:17PMGlasgow Central (GLC)
$2511One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Glasgow

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Glasgow among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €23, and a train costs an average of €64.

Distance: 306 miles (493 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

€142

Average price

€55

Average price

Cheapest

7h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 11m

Average total duration

11h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Glasgow train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Glasgow trains for today, Tuesday, December 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:29 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
cross_countryC74968+avanti_west_coastL02372
On time
8:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h32
3:17 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)
1 transfer
transport_for_walesL64807+avanti_west_coastL02372
On time
8:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h24
3:17 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)
1 transfer
transport_for_walesL64791+avanti_west_coastW02929+transpennine_expressC74097
On time
9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h46
4:39 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)
2 transfers
cross_countryC74997+avanti_west_coastC01379
On time
10:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h36
5:21 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)
1 transfer
transport_for_walesL64810+avanti_west_coastC01379
On time
10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h28
5:21 PM Glasgow Central (GLC)
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Glasgow 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.

Tue
Dec 16
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Why should you book Cardiff to Glasgow trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry, Transport for Wales and Cross Country 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 and Cross Country 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Glasgow.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Avanti West Coast tickets can be bought on Avanti West Coast's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales and Cross Country to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cardiff to Glasgow.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Glasgow.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Glasgow?

The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Glasgow is 14 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Glasgow route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Glasgow per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cardiff to Glasgow.

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 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $80 (€64) but you can travel from only $29 (€23) 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 6h 24m.

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 $29 (€23)
Distance
306 miles (493 km)
Average train duration
6h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$80 (€64)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
6h 24m
First train
04:08
Last train
18:40
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 $29 (€23)

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Glasgow trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Glasgow from $29 (€23). 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 Duration
6h 18m
Cheapest Price
$95 (€76)
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

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
8h 6m
Cheapest Price
$158 (€127)
CrossCountry frequency
2 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

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
6h 46m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€64)
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 27m
Cheapest Price
$479 (€383)
Cross Country frequency
4 a day

first_great_western

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 23m
Cheapest Price
$604 (€483)
first_great_western frequency
1 a day

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
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Glasgow is ideal to explore its vibrant culture, historic sites, and enjoy a taste of local life.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Glasgow can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $80 (€64), while the average price is around $177 (€142).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Glasgow is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€23).
The distance by train from Cardiff to Glasgow is 306 miles (493 km).
In Glasgow, you can explore the vibrant West End with its bohemian atmosphere, eclectic shops, and lively cafes. Take a stroll along the River Clyde for scenic views and modern architecture, or visit the Gallery of Modern Art for contemporary works in a neoclassical setting. Experience live music at the iconic Barrowland Ballroom and discover Glasgow's shipbuilding heritage at the Tall Ship at Riverside. Don't miss the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow Cathedral, The Riverside Museum, Glasgow Botanic Gardens, and The Necropolis for a mix of art, history, and stunning views.
The first train from Cardiff to Glasgow leaves at 4:08 AM.
A day trip from Cardiff to Glasgow is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 24m one way. There are 5 trains per day. The distance is 306 miles (493 km).
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Glasgow is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Glasgow Central (GLC).
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Glasgow.
The train from Cardiff to Glasgow takes 6h 24m and runs 5 per day.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Glasgow.
The last train from Cardiff to Glasgow leaves at 6:40 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Glasgow.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Glasgow.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Glasgow

Cardiff
Glasgow
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Glasgow.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
Dining
  • Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
  • Pret a Manger
  • Tesco Express
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
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
Hotel
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff
  • Cardiff Marriott Hotel
  • Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
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)
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Information Desk
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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
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
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: to the right of the station front
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
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.

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