- Recommended
Manor House Museum
Local history museum in Manor House Museum with exhibits on Kettering's industry, social life, and changing town story.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Kettering
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Kettering among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $37 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 36m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, while a train costs an average of $176.
Distance: 122 miles (197 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$176 Average price | $37 Average price Cheapest | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration 5h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Kettering is a bus with an average price of $37.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Kettering:
A bus is $139 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Kettering costing on average $176.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Kettering is by train with an average journey time of 3h 6m.
Other travel options to Kettering take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Kettering including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Kettering among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1m sooner (3h 6m by train vs 3h 7m by car). Tickets start at around $176 compared to roughly $55 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Kettering by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Kettering
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Kettering run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $163 but you can travel from only $34 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 21:06. The fastest train covers the 122 miles (197 km) distance in 2h 58m.
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 $34
Distance 122 miles (197 km) |
Average train duration 3h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $163 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 58m |
First train 4:40 AM |
Last train 9:06 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $34
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Kettering trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Kettering from $34. 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
3h 4m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$163
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
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$189
Great Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Kettering
Things to do in Kettering
Discover the best of Kettering — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kettering trip today.
- Recommended
Chester House Estate Museum
Award-winning archaeology museum and heritage site presenting nationally important finds, Roman remains, and the area's deep past.
- Recommended
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
Nearby shoe industry museum preserving Northamptonshire's famous boot and shoemaking craft through tools, machines, and design displays.
- Recommended
Wicksteed Park
Large public park with formal gardens, lake, play areas, and open space. A favourite local place for walks and family time.
- Recommended
Chester House Estate
Scenic heritage landscape with riverside paths, archaeology, and nature-rich walks. Excellent for a quieter outing near the town.
- Recommended
Lyveden Walks
Woodland and parkland trails around a celebrated country estate, ideal for walking, seasonal colour, and broad rural views.
Northamptonshire Sausage
Northamptonshire sausage is a local pork sausage, often seasoned with herbs. It reflects the county’s long farming tradition and is a staple in pub breakfasts and roasts.
Pork Pie
Pork pie is widely associated with the East Midlands. In and around Kettering, it is a classic picnic and pub snack with seasoned pork in hot-water crust pastry.
- Vegetarian
Stilton Cheese
Stilton served with local bread or biscuits is a traditional regional treat. This rich blue cheese is popular across the East Midlands and common on local menus.
Moghul Rooms
Well-known modern Indian restaurant with stylish interiors and refined curries, grills, and regional dishes. Popular for evening dining.
Kino Lounge
Established steakhouse and grill in Kettering, known for quality beef, classic British mains, and a polished but relaxed dining room.
The Red Lion, Rushton
Long-established pub venue in nearby Rushton offering traditional British food, Sunday roasts, and beers in a heritage setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is not always included. Tip 10-12.5% in restaurants if service was good, round up taxi fares, and small cafe tips are optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Kettering Railway Station -> Kettering Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Kettering. You can also use the official app for mobile tickets and live bus times.
- Kettering is compact, so many central trips from the railway station are walkable. Check bus times in advance because frequencies vary by route and day.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Kettering
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Kettering 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 Kettering, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Kettering can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $163, while the average price is around $176.
The train from Cardiff to Kettering takes 2h 58m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Kettering leaves at 4:40 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Kettering is 122 miles (197 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Kettering leaves at 9:06 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Kettering.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Kettering.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Kettering.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Kettering is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Kettering station (KET).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Kettering is by bus, with a cost of around $34.
The train journey from Cardiff to Kettering offers views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque rural landscapes, particularly as it crosses into England, providing a scenic experience for travelers.
A day trip from Cardiff to Kettering is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 58m. However, there are 5 train trips available per day for this route, covering a distance of 122 miles (197 km).
You can enjoy the main attractions of Kettering in 1 to 2 days, which includes exploring Wicksteed Park, visiting the Manor House Museum, and experiencing local dining options.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Kettering.
Since neither Cardiff nor Kettering 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 Kettering include London, Leicester, Wellingborough, Nottingham, Harpenden.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Kettering 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 Kettering, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. It's advisable to stay vigilant around busy places like markets and transit hubs. Scams are relatively rare but travelers should avoid unsolicited offers for transportation or accommodation and always use official services for tickets and bookings to prevent fraud.
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 Kettering
Most Cardiff to Kettering trains use the Cardiff Central to Kettering station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Kettering 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 Kettering
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 Kettering station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Kettering arrive at Kettering. Kettering is 0 miles (1 km) from Kettering city centre.
KetteringKettering station, Station Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN15 7HJ+44 8457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Kettering from Kettering city centre
Bus48 · 2m · $2 · every ~3 min
Kettering train station facilities and services
Kettering has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Kettering.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kettering.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kettering: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kettering: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kettering: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station. This station has step free access to all platforms. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms, 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: No.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Kettering
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kettering and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Kettering
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