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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Leeds
Showing times and prices for Nov 07
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$140
Fastest journey
4 h 12 m
Average duration
4 h 31 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
280 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Leeds is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Leeds will cost around $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Cardiff for Leeds on Fri, Nov 07, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 280 km distance in an average of 4 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 12 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 4 h 56 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.
C23399_C2366109:45AM4h16
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:01PMLeeds station (LDS)
$731One-way
0 transfers
G56072+
C2639008:53AM4h56
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:49PMLeeds station (LDS)
$791One-way
1 transfer
G56051+C2725409:53AM5h17
Cardiff Central (CDF)03:10PMLeeds station (LDS)
$921One-way
1 transfer
G56051+C2638709:53AM4h55
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:48PMLeeds station (LDS)
$921One-way
1 transfer
P08480+C2366109:49AM4h12
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:01PMLeeds station (LDS)
$2451One-way
1 transfer
P08480+C2366109:49AM4h12
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:01PMLeeds station (LDS)
$2451One-way
1 transfer
C23399_C2366109:45AM4h16
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:01PMLeeds station (LDS)
$731One-way
0 transfers
C23366 · C2365808:45AM4h16
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:01PMLeeds station (LDS)
$2611One-way
1 transfer
G56051+C2638709:53AM4h55
Cardiff Central (CDF)02:48PMLeeds station (LDS)
$921One-way
1 transfer
G56072+C2639008:53AM4h56
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:49PMLeeds station (LDS)
$791One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Leeds
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Leeds among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €15, and a train costs an average of €48.
Distance: 173 miles (280 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€76 Average price | €26 Average price Cheapest |
4h 53m Average total duration Fastest 4h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 14m Average total duration 6h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Leeds train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Leeds trains for today, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 4:55 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:46 AM Cardiff | 5h02 | 10:48 AM Leeds | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:53 AM Cardiff | 4h56 | 11:49 AM Leeds | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:53 AM Cardiff | 5h17 | 1:10 PM Leeds | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:53 AM Cardiff | 4h55 | 1:48 PM Leeds | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Leeds 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.
Fri
Nov 07
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13
Nov 13
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Leeds
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Leeds run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 (€48) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:11, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 173 miles (280 km) distance in 4h 16m.
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 $19 (€15)
Distance 173 miles (280 km) |
Average train duration 4h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 (€48) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 16m |
First train 02:11 |
Last train 23:47 |
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 $19 (€15)
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Leeds trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Leeds from $19 (€15). 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 Duration
4h 47m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
Transport for Wales frequency
4 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
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
4h 17m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€57)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
$324 (€264)
Cross Country frequency
3 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 7m
Cheapest Price
$336 (€274)
first_great_western frequency
9 a day
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Leeds
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Leeds 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 Leeds, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
In Leeds, you can explore the Leeds City Museum with its interactive exhibits on natural history, archaeology, and local history, or visit Temple Newsam, a Tudor-Jacobean mansion featuring beautiful gardens and a working farm. The Thackray Medical Museum offers engaging exhibits on the history of medicine. For performances, The Grand Theatre showcases opera, ballet, and musicals. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the Victoria Quarter for its stunning architecture and luxury boutiques. Notable sights include the Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds Art Gallery, Roundhay Park, Kirkstall Abbey, and Harewood House.
A day trip from Cardiff to Leeds is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 16m each way. However, there are 7 trains per day available for this route. The distance is 173 miles (280 km).
The train from Cardiff to Leeds takes 4h 16m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Leeds is 173 miles (280 km).
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Leeds allows you to explore its key attractions, such as the Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds Art Gallery, and the lively shopping and dining scene at Leeds City Centre.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Leeds is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Leeds station (LDS).
The last train from Cardiff to Leeds leaves at 11:47 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Leeds.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Leeds.
The train journey from Cardiff to Leeds passes through picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Welsh countryside and the rolling hills of the English Midlands, offering a visually appealing experience.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Leeds can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $59 (€48), while the average price is around $93 (€76).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Leeds is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
The first train from Cardiff to Leeds leaves at 2:11 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Leeds.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Leeds. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Leeds
Cardiff
Leeds
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your trip from Cardiff to Leeds.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Lost and Found Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
- 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
Public transit options for Birchgrove
- Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibility
HotelLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
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
- Travelodge
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
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibility
WCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
- Car Park: No
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
- 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
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
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.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
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
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Ninian Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Public transit options for Rhiwbina
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance adjacent to the library
The major train station for arrivals in Leeds is Burley Park. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Burley Park for your journey to Leeds from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B station, Persons in wheelchairs can gain easy access onto both platforms. However to get onto the Harrogate bound platform you have to go a long way round it will take approx 5-7 minutes.
- 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 ticket machines note: Cards Only - No Cash Accepted
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Burley Park
- Onward travel information: Bus stops located 5 mins away from station. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick up / drop off on Ashville Road adjacent to the station entrance towards Harrogate, opposite the station entrance towards Leeds.
- Metro: 0113 245 7676
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A station. The conductor will carry out any assistance, please wait on the platform. This station has recently benefitted from the installation of lifts, level access to platform 1 with platform 2 being accessible using the lift and a short subway.
- 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
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Headingley
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop close to the station. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the Bus Stops on Kirkstall Lane close to the junction with the station approach road. (Station side for Leeds, opposite side for Harrogate)
- Metro: WYPTE 0113 245 7676
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 04:45 - 23:59
- Sun: 06:45 - 22:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Located on the main concourse. Services provided by Excess Baggage Co, open daily from 08:00 until 21:00.
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
- Bagel Factory
- Caffè Nero
- KFC
- Leon
- McDonald's
- The Pasty Shop
- Starbucks
- Pret a Manger
- JD Wetherspoon
- Delice de France
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank outside New Station Street entrance near the bus interchange.
- Accessible taxis: Taxi rank outside New Station Street entrance near the bus interchange.
Accessibility
- There are elevators or level access to all platforms in the whole station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
WC
- Toilets Location: Baby changing facilities are located in the accessible toilet on platform 12 on the South Concourse
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Center
- The Queens Hotel
- Leeds Marriott Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 04:45 - 23:59
- Sun: 06:45 - 22:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platform 0 / 1 Platform 6 / 8 behind the lift Platform 12 / 15 Short stay car park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Located on the North Concourse near the Wellington Street entrance. Open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Public transit options for Leeds
- Bus lines: 1, 16, 201, 229, 34, 5, 60, A1
- Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Leeds
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leeds and Cardiff
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