- Recommended
Holyhead Maritime Museum
Small museum in a former cinema covering Holyhead’s archaeology, maritime story, and local life through varied displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Holyhead
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08
Cheapest price on Oct 08
€62
Average ticket price on Oct 08
€81
Fastest journey on Oct 08
4 h 52 m
Average journey duration on Oct 08
5 h 15 m
Trains on Oct 08
5
Distance
226 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Holyhead is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Holyhead will cost around €81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €62.
Fast trains
On Thu, Oct 08, we found 5 trains from Cardiff to Holyhead, including 5 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 08 the direct trains cover the 226 km distance in an average of 5 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 52 m .
On Thu, Oct 08 the slowest trains will take 6 h 4 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
11:23 AM4h53Cardiff4:16 PMHolyhead€621One-way0 transfers- 12:23 PM4h58Cardiff5:21 PMHolyhead€641One-way0 transfers
11:45 AM6h04Cardiff5:49 PMHolyhead€661One-way0 transfers- 9:23 AM4h52Cardiff2:15 PMHolyhead€821One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM5h28Cardiff2:21 PMHolyhead€1291One-way0 transfers
- 9:23 AM4h52Cardiff2:15 PMHolyhead€821One-way0 transfers
- 11:23 AM4h53Cardiff4:16 PMHolyhead€621One-way0 transfers
- 12:23 PM4h58Cardiff5:21 PMHolyhead€641One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM5h28Cardiff2:21 PMHolyhead€1291One-way0 transfers
- 11:45 AM6h04Cardiff5:49 PMHolyhead€661One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Holyhead
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Holyhead run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €53 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:21, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 140 miles (226 km) distance in 4h 36m.
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
Distance 140 miles (226 km) |
Average train duration 4h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price €53 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 4h 36m |
First train 4:21 AM |
Last train 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Live departures
Cardiff to Holyhead train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Holyhead trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:53 AM Cardiff | 5h28 | 2:21 PM Holyhead | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:23 AM Cardiff | 4h52 | 2:15 PM Holyhead | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:23 AM Cardiff | 4h53 | 4:16 PM Holyhead | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:45 AM Cardiff | 6h04 | 5:49 PM Holyhead | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:23 PM Cardiff | 4h58 | 5:21 PM Holyhead | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Holyhead trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Holyhead.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Holyhead.
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 Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Holyhead.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Holyhead.
Train companies: Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast from Cardiff to Holyhead trainsTransport for Wales, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Cardiff and Holyhead from €53. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 36m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
€53
Transport for Wales frequency
6 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
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 0m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€54
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Holyhead
Things to do in Holyhead
Discover the best of Holyhead — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Holyhead trip today.
- Recommended
South Stack Lighthouse Exhibition
Interpretive exhibition at South Stack explaining lighthouse operations, keepers’ lives, and maritime rescue history.
- Recommended
South Stack RSPB Visitor Centre
Visitor centre displays on seabirds, migration, and coastal habitats, useful for understanding Holy Island’s natural heritage.
- Must visit
South Stack
Top coastal attraction with lighthouse, cliffs, birdlife, and sweeping sea views; excellent for walking and photography.
- Must visit
Holyhead Mountain
Highest point on Holy Island with prehistoric remains, broad summit views, and rewarding walking routes from the town.
- Must visit
Anglesey Coastal Path
Scenic long-distance trail section around Holy Island, combining cliffs, coves, heritage, and exceptional coastal views.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Cakes
Traditional Welsh cakes griddled with flour, butter, sugar and dried fruit. A beloved teatime treat across North Wales and often served warm with butter.
- Vegetarian
Bara Brith
A rich fruit loaf made with tea, dried fruit and spice. Common in Welsh homes and cafés, usually sliced and served with butter.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cawl Cennin
Hearty soup of leeks, potatoes and stock, sometimes with cream. The leek is a Welsh emblem, making this a classic national comfort dish.
The Sea Shanty Cafe
Casual café and eatery near the waterfront, known for breakfast, lunch and homemade bakes with a friendly local atmosphere.
The Harbourfront Bistro
Popular harbour-side restaurant known for fresh seafood and steaks in a relaxed modern setting close to Holyhead Marina.
The Edinburgh Castle
Well-known traditional pub and restaurant serving hearty Welsh favourites, grills and classic comfort food in a casual setting.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and ferry-linked stays can raise costs, but casual dining and local transport are usually manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. Tip 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is good. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Traveline Cymru
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Holyhead Railway Station -> Holyhead Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment is available on many local buses, but carry a bank card or cash as acceptance can vary by operator.
- Holyhead is compact; the rail station is within walking distance of the town centre and ferry terminal.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Holyhead
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Holyhead 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 Holyhead, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Holyhead can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €53, while the average price is around €91.
The train from Cardiff to Holyhead takes 4h 36m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Holyhead leaves at 4:21 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Holyhead is 140 miles (226 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Holyhead leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Holyhead.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Holyhead. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Holyhead.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Holyhead is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Holyhead station (HHD).
The train journey from Cardiff to Holyhead is considered scenic, offering views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and stretches along the picturesque North Wales coast, including sights of castles and the Irish Sea.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Holyhead.
Popular day trips by train from Holyhead include Chester, Bangor, Llandudno, Rhyl, Conwy.
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 Holyhead, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially around busy areas like the ferry terminal and train station. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed providers. Additionally, watch out for scams involving counterfeit tickets or overpriced transportation offers. Staying alert in crowded spots and verifying services beforehand 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 Holyhead
Most Cardiff to Holyhead trains use the Cardiff Central to Holyhead station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Holyhead 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 Holyhead
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · €2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
Which Holyhead station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Holyhead arrive at Holyhead. Holyhead is from Holyhead city centre.
HolyheadHolyhead station, Station Approach, London Road, Holyhead, Anglesey, LL65 2BT+44 8705755755
City-centre transport
Getting to Holyhead from Holyhead city centre
Bus545, 4 · 2m · €2 · every ~4 min
Holyhead train station facilities and services
Holyhead 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 Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Holyhead.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Holyhead. ATMs are available at Holyhead.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Holyhead. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,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 Holyhead: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Holyhead: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Holyhead: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B Step free access is via the Celtic Gateway Bridge, the ferry terminal, or via gates on to the platforms either side of Stena House. Transferring between platforms is step-free however distance between ferry terminal and Platform 1 is approximately 200m, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 00:00 - 21:30 Sunday 07:00 - 00:00, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Holyhead
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Holyhead and Cardiff
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