- Must visit
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
The city's main museum, covering Highland history, archaeology, art, and local culture in a central Victorian building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Inverness
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $249
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $249
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 10 h 52 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 10 h 52 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 1
- Distance
- 670 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Inverness will cost around $249 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $249.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 1 trains from Cardiff to Inverness, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 670 km distance in an average of 10 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 52 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 10 h 52 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.
9:16 AM 10h52 Cardiff 8:08 PM Inverness $249 1 One-way 0 transfers
9:16 AM 10h52 Cardiff 8:08 PM Inverness $249 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Inverness run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $96 but you can travel from only $76 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 14:50. The fastest train covers the 416 miles (670 km) distance in 9h 6m.
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 $76
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance416 miles (670 km)
- Average train duration9h 24m
- Cheapest ticket price$96
- Trains per day4
- Fastest train9h 6m
- First train4:15 AM
- Last train2:50 PM
- Cheapest MonthJun
- Cheapest DaySat
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Best time to book1 day
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 $76
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Inverness trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Inverness.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Inverness can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $96, while the average price is around $230.
The train from Cardiff to Inverness takes 9h 6m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Inverness leaves at 4:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Inverness is 416 miles (670 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Inverness leaves at 2:50 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Inverness.
Live departures
Cardiff to Inverness train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Inverness trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 7:45 AM Cardiff | 11h23 | 7:08 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 8:53 AM Cardiff | 10h15 | 7:08 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 10:53 AM Cardiff | 10h30 | 9:23 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:54 AM Cardiff | 10h25 | 10:19 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:52 PM Cardiff | 10h27 | 11:19 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:54 PM Cardiff | 10h25 | 11:19 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Inverness trains with Omio?
London North Eastern Railway as well as Scotrail, Lumo, Avanti West Coast and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Inverness.
Omio is the only official third party seller for London North Eastern Railway tickets.
Why book with Omio vs London North Eastern Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for London North Eastern Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail, Lumo or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Inverness.
- 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 London North Eastern Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Inverness.
Train companies
Train companies from Cardiff to Inverness
Trains from Cardiff to Inverness with Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway, and Lumo. High-speed trains available on this route with London North Eastern Railway, Lumo, and Avanti West Coast. Regional trains available on this route with Scotrail. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
9h 18m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$154
Scotrail frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
9h 6m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$96
London North Eastern Railway 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
9h 19m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$177
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
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
10h 18m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$282
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Inverness
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 Inverness.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Inverness.
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 Inverness
Things to do in Inverness
Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.
- Must visit
Culloden Visitor Centre
A modern visitor centre exploring the Battle of Culloden through artefacts, immersive displays, and Jacobite history.
- Recommended
The Highlanders' Museum
A compact military museum telling the story of the Queen's Own Highlanders and local regimental heritage.
- Must visit
Ness Islands
The River Ness islands and footbridges create one of Inverness's best urban walks, with calm water, trees, and views.
- Must visit
River Ness Walk
A central riverside route ideal for strolling past cathedral, castle views, bridges, and classic Inverness scenery.
- Recommended
High Street
The main pedestrian shopping street, lively with historic facades, local businesses, and easy access to central sights.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty Highland soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Deeply linked to northeast Scotland and widely enjoyed in Inverness pubs and homes.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding made with sheep offal, oats and spices. A classic Burns supper dish and a staple on traditional Highland menus.
- Vegetarian
Vegetarian Haggis
A vegetarian version of haggis using oats, lentils, beans and spices. Popular across Scotland as a meat-free way to try a national classic.
Torrish Restaurant
Refined tasting menus in an elegant setting inside Ness Walk Hotel. Known for modern Scottish cooking with Highland produce and polished service.
The Castle Tavern
Historic pub by Inverness Castle known for cask ales, whisky and classic Scottish fare. A traditional stop for hearty local dishes.
The Kitchen Brasserie
Smart but relaxed bistro and bar near the river, serving modern Scottish dishes, seafood and steaks with a lively local atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are usually reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- /
To the city center
Inverness Airport -> Inverness Railway Station
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Most local Stagecoach buses accept contactless card payment as well as cash; ask the driver if you need the cheapest fare option.
- The £2 single fare cap commonly applies on many local bus journeys, but check the operator app or website before travel.
Plan your visit to Inverness
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 Inverness.
The train journey from Cardiff to Inverness is considered scenic, offering views of the Welsh countryside, the rolling hills of the Midlands, and the picturesque landscapes of Scotland, including the Highlands as you approach Inverness.
Popular day trips by train from Inverness include Invergordon, Aviemore, Elgin, Nairn, Pitlochry.
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 Inverness, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. Some visitors report occasional overcharging by taxi drivers, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Always be aware of your surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas. Standard travel safety practices help ensure a secure 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.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Inverness
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Inverness 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 Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Inverness.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Inverness
Most Cardiff to Inverness trains use the Cardiff Central to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Inverness 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 Inverness
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 · $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.
Which Inverness station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Inverness arrive at Inverness. Inverness is from Inverness city centre.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), 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 Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3, 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.
Train stations for Cardiff to Inverness
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Inverness, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Inverness is Cardiff Central, which connects to Inverness.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
Most popular trains to and from Inverness and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Inverness
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