Cardiff to Liverpool train with Transport for Wales

Sun, Nov 01
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Liverpool

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
Cheapest price on Nov 01
$91
Average ticket price on Nov 01
$133
Fastest journey on Nov 01
3 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Nov 01
4 h 3 m
Trains on Nov 01
12
Distance
215 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool will cost around $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.

Fast trains

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

  • Transport for WalesG38996 · W44969+Mersey RailS20935 · ME371900
    3 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38996 · W44969 · Y61986+Mersey RailME358900
    4 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38996+West Midlands TrainsC18028+Mersey RailME388400
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38972+West Midlands TrainsC18011
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG00898+West Midlands TrainsC17999
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Liverpool

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€22) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 3h 8m.

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 $17 (€14)
Distance
133 miles (215 km)
Average train duration
3h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$26 (€22)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 8m
First train
4:00 AM
Last train
11:34 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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 $17 (€14)

Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Liverpool trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Liverpool can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€22), while the average price is around $88 (€74).
The train from Cardiff to Liverpool takes 3h 8m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Liverpool leaves at 4:00 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Liverpool is 133 miles (215 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Liverpool leaves at 11:34 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Live departures

Cardiff to Liverpool train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Liverpool trains for today, Saturday, October 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG38979+West Midlands TrainsC17980
On time
10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h49
2:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39034+Mersey RailC07982
On time
11:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h46
3:09 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00899+West Midlands TrainsC17850
On time
11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h57
3:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00899+Avanti West CoastW33493
On time
11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h38
3:23 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39011+Avanti West CoastW33523
On time
4:17 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h47
8:04 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39011+Mersey RailC08024
On time
4:17 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h22
8:39 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00922+West Midlands TrainsC17896
On time
4:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h57
8:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00922+Avanti West CoastW33485
On time
4:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h38
8:23 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39003+West Midlands TrainsC17896
On time
4:55 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h47
8:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39041 · G38488
On time
5:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h11
9:34 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38960+Avanti West CoastW33721
On time
5:51 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h44
9:35 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39012+Mersey RailC08030
On time
6:22 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h47
10:09 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39012+Avanti West CoastW33768
On time
6:22 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h43
10:05 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39005+Avanti West CoastW33790
On time
6:54 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h52
10:46 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39043+Mersey RailC00606
On time
7:38 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h01
11:39 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39589+CrossCountryG01066+West Midlands TrainsC179028:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h52
1:15 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cardiff to Liverpool trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains offer trains services from Cardiff to Liverpool.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Liverpool.
  • 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Liverpool.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Cardiff and Liverpool from $17 (€14). 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
3h 8m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$26 (€22)
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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$53 (€44)
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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
3h 25m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
$66 (€55)
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Liverpool

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Liverpool.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Liverpool.
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 Liverpool

Things to do in Liverpool

Discover the best of Liverpool — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Liverpool trip today.

  • Must visit

The Beatles Story

Acclaimed branch of the Imperial War Museums covering modern conflict, personal stories, and the impact of war in a dramatic dock building.

  • Must visit

World Museum

Large free museum covering archaeology, natural history, world cultures, and planetarium shows. Excellent for broad insight into the region.

  • Must visit

Museum of Liverpool

Modern museum telling Liverpool’s story from port city to pop culture capital, with social history, transport, and riverfront galleries.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while transit and casual meals are fairly affordable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes and pubs: no tip expected, small change appreciated.

Plan your visit to Liverpool

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 Liverpool.

The train journey from Cardiff to Liverpool offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with scenic views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of the coastline, making it a pleasant experience for travelers.
Popular day trips by train from Liverpool include Manchester, Birmingham, Chester, Leeds, Warrington.
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 Liverpool, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and around popular attractions such as the Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE shopping center. Scams involving overcharging in taxis can occur, so it's advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-book rides. Additionally, travelers should be aware of nightlife-related safety, avoiding unlicensed venues and staying in well-lit, populated areas at night.
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 Liverpool

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Liverpool 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 Liverpool, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Liverpool.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Liverpool

Most Cardiff to Liverpool trains use the Cardiff Central to Liverpool Lime Street station pair, with some services arriving at Liverpool James Street. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Liverpool 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 Liverpool
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre

Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $3 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services

Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: 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 Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: 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.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

Whitchurch (Cardiff)Whitchurch station, off Pen-y-Dre, Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 1BPParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Whitchurch (Cardiff) from Cardiff city centre

Whitchurch (Cardiff) is 5 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 12m · $3 · every ~4 min
Cardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 16m · $4 · every ~4 min
Bus400 · 21m · $5 · every ~6 min
24, 25, 101, 21, 102 · 47m · $3 · every ~18 min

Whitchurch (Cardiff) train station facilities and services

Whitchurch (Cardiff) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B Step free access to the platform from Pen y Dre, 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.

Train stations for Cardiff to Liverpool

Check train stations information for Cardiff and Liverpool, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Cardiff that goes to Liverpool is Cardiff Central, which connects to Liverpool Lime Street.

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