- Must visit
John Taylor Bellfoundry Museum
Unique museum inside the historic bell foundry, telling the story of bellmaking and casting. A signature Loughborough attraction with working heritage nearby.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Loughborough
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€56
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€95
Fastest journey on Sep 19
3 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
3 h 40 m
Trains on Sep 19
3
Distance
197 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Loughborough is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Loughborough will cost around €95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €56.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 trains from Cardiff to Loughborough, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 197 km distance in an average of 3 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 36 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 3 h 42 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.
8:45 AM3h42Cardiff12:27 PMLoughborough€561One-way0 transfers- 7:45 AM3h42Cardiff11:27 AMLoughborough€1071One-way0 transfers
- 7:51 AM3h36Cardiff11:27 AMLoughborough€1221One-way0 transfers
- 7:51 AM3h36Cardiff11:27 AMLoughborough€1221One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 AM3h42Cardiff12:27 PMLoughborough€561One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 AM3h42Cardiff11:27 AMLoughborough€1071One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Loughborough
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Loughborough among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €53 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 24m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €53, while a train costs an average of €80.
Distance: 122 miles (197 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€80 Average price | €53 Average price Cheapest | €46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 24m Average total duration Fastest 2h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 53m Average total duration 7h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 56m 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 Loughborough is a bus with an average price of €53.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Loughborough:
A bus is €27 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Loughborough costing on average €80.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Loughborough is by train with an average journey time of 2h 54m.
Other travel options to Loughborough take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Loughborough including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Loughborough 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 2m sooner (2h 54m by train vs 2h 56m by car). Tickets start at around €80 compared to roughly €46 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.
Live departures
Cardiff to Loughborough train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Loughborough trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. 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 | 3h42 | 11:27 AM Loughborough | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:51 AM Cardiff | 3h36 | 11:27 AM Loughborough | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:45 AM Cardiff | 3h42 | 12:27 PM Loughborough | 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 Loughborough by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Why should you book Cardiff to Loughborough trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Loughborough.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Loughborough
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Loughborough run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €55 but you can travel from only €31 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:20, the last at 20:00. The fastest train covers the 122 miles (197 km) distance in 2h 43m.
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 €31
Distance 122 miles (197 km) |
Average train duration 2h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price €55 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 43m |
First train 4:20 AM |
Last train 8:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 €31
Train companies: CrossCountry from Cardiff to Loughborough trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Loughborough from €31. 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
2h 43m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€55
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
Complete guide to Loughborough
Things to do in Loughborough
Discover the best of Loughborough — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Loughborough trip today.
- Recommended
Charnwood Museum
Museum in Queen’s Park with local history, archaeology, and the famous Carillon tower. Ideal for understanding the town’s heritage in one stop.
- Recommended
Martin Hall Exhibition Space
University arts venue presenting changing exhibitions, design, and contemporary culture. A strong choice for visitors interested in current creative work.
- Must visit
Queen's Park
The town’s best-known green space with formal gardens, play areas, and the Carillon tower. Ideal for a relaxing break near the centre.
- Recommended
Market Place
Historic shopping and civic area with market-town character, regular activity, and easy access to landmarks. A practical place to start exploring Loughborough.
- Recommended
Loughborough University Campus
Attractive university campus with open lawns, public art, and notable modern architecture. A pleasant walking area showing a different side of the town.
Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
A Leicestershire pork pie with seasoned pork and firm jelly in a hand-raised crust. Nearby Melton Mowbray made it famous and it is a classic regional snack.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton
Stilton made in the traditional Leicestershire style. This rich blue cheese is one of the East Midlands’ best-known foods and is widely served locally.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Red Leicester Cheese
A red, nutmeg-spiced Leicestershire cheese with a mild, creamy taste. It is a longstanding county speciality often eaten in sandwiches or on cheeseboards.
Caravelli
Contemporary Indian dining with refined presentation, regional specialities, and attentive service suited to a more upscale meal.
The Basin
Established Indian restaurant known for classic curries and tandoori dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting popular with locals.
Fernandez Grillhouse
Popular casual venue for burgers, wings, loaded fries, and craft beer with an energetic modern atmosphere.
British pound (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local transport are fairly typical for an English market town.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple 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 often included only at some restaurants. If not, 10-12.5% is polite for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafes is optional, usually small change.
Kinchbus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city center
Loughborough Station -> Loughborough Town Centre
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most Kinchbus services in Loughborough accept contactless card payment on board. Check the fare before boarding as driver-issued tickets vary by route.
- Loughborough Station is outside the town centre, so Sprint or local buses are usually the simplest connection. Allow extra time on university term dates.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Loughborough
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Loughborough 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 Loughborough, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Loughborough can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €55, while the average price is around €80.
The train from Cardiff to Loughborough takes 2h 43m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Loughborough leaves at 4:20 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Loughborough is 122 miles (197 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Loughborough leaves at 8:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Loughborough.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Loughborough.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Loughborough is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Loughborough station (LBO).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Loughborough is by bus, with a cost of around €31.
The train journey from Cardiff to Loughborough offers a mixed experience with scenic views of the Welsh countryside and urban landscapes, particularly through the Severn Tunnel and the rolling hills of the Midlands.
A day trip from Cardiff to Loughborough is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 43m. Trains run 3 times per day.
A two to three-day visit to Loughborough is ideal to explore the main attractions, including the Great Central Railway, Queen's Park, and the Loughborough Carillon Tower, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Since neither Cardiff nor Loughborough 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 Loughborough include Leicester, Derby, Nottingham, Beeston, Market Harborough.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Loughborough 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 Loughborough, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as the town center and during events. Common scams include overcharging by taxis without meters and unofficial ticket sellers near transport hubs. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and purchase tickets from official vendors to avoid fraud. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less busy areas.
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 Loughborough
Most Cardiff to Loughborough trains use the Cardiff Central to Loughborough station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Loughborough 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 Loughborough
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.
CorytonCoryton station, Park Road, Coryton, Cardiff, CF14 7BW+44 333 321 1202
City-centre transport
Getting to Coryton from Cardiff city centre
Coryton is 5 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPenarth - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Coryton · 15m · €3 · every ~4 min
Penarth - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Coryton · 19m · €3 · every ~4 min
Bus23, 136 · 23m · €2 · every ~8 min
21, 136, 23 · 33m · €2 · every ~14 min
21, 136, 23 · 39m · €2 · every ~14 min
Coryton train station facilities and services
Coryton has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Coryton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Coryton: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Coryton: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Coryton: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B3. Access to the platform from Park Avenue is via a moderate ramp however there is no dropped kerb on the pavement. Access is also available via steps, 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.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
City-centre transport
Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · €1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cathays train station facilities and services
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which Loughborough station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Loughborough arrive at Loughborough. Loughborough is 0 miles (1 km) from Loughborough city centre.
LoughboroughLoughborough Railway Station, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 1EX, United Kingdom+44 345 712 5678
City-centre transport
Getting to Loughborough from Loughborough city centre
Loughborough is 1 km from Loughborough city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus127 · 4m · €2 · every ~11 min
Sky · 11m · €2 · every ~15 min
Loughborough train station facilities and services
Loughborough has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Basin, The Orange Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Loughborough. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Loughborough. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Loughborough: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Loughborough: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Loughborough: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Premier Inn Loughborough, Travelodge Loughborough Central, Ramada Loughborough Hotel.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Loughborough
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Loughborough and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Loughborough
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