Cardiff to Loughborough train with CrossCountry

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Loughborough

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$183

Average price

$213

Fastest journey

3 h 19 m

Average duration

3 h 29 m

Trains per day

12

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 $213 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $183.

Fast trains

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

  • Transport for Wales
    8:23 AM4h12
    Cardiff
    12:35 PMLoughborough
    $1831One-way
    3 transfers
  • Transport for Wales
    12:29 PM4h21
    Cardiff
    4:50 PMLoughborough
    $1831One-way
    3 transfers
  • Transport for Wales
    2:29 PM3h59
    Cardiff
    6:28 PMLoughborough
    $1831One-way
    3 transfers
  • Transport for Wales
    4:29 PM4h00
    Cardiff
    8:29 PMLoughborough
    $1831One-way
    3 transfers
  • Cross Country
    11:45 AM3h25
    Cardiff
    3:10 PMLoughborough
    $2251One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Loughborough

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Loughborough among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a train costs an average of $46.

Distance: 122 miles (197 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$122

Average price

$35

Average price

Cheapest

$55

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 48m

Average total duration

7h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 56m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

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 $35 (€29).

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Loughborough:

A bus is $86 (€71) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Loughborough costing on average $122 (€99).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Loughborough is by train with an average journey time of 3h 0m.

Other travel options to Loughborough take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 18m.

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 the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $122 (€99) compared to roughly $55 (€45) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-66.22 (€-54.20). The journey takes 3h 0m versus 2h 56m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Cardiff to Loughborough train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Loughborough trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for Wales8:23 AM Cardiff
4h12
12:35 PM Loughborough3 transfers
Cross Country11:45 AM Cardiff
3h25
3:10 PM Loughborough2 transfers
Cross Country11:45 AM Cardiff
4h00
3:45 PM Loughborough1 transfer
Transport for Wales12:29 PM Cardiff
4h21
4:50 PM Loughborough3 transfers
Cross Country1:45 PM Cardiff
3h33
5:18 PM Loughborough1 transfer
Transport for Wales2:29 PM Cardiff
3h59
6:28 PM Loughborough3 transfers
Cross Country3:45 PM Cardiff
3h44
7:29 PM Loughborough2 transfers
Cross Country3:45 PM Cardiff
4h00
7:45 PM Loughborough1 transfer

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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Loughborough run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) 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 3h 36m.

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 $22 (€18)
Distance
122 miles (197 km)
Average train duration
3h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
$46 (€38)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
3h 36m
First train
4:20 AM
Last train
8:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 $22 (€18)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Loughborough trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Loughborough from $22 (€18). 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 Duration
3h 36m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
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
3h 6m
Cheapest Price
$225 (€184)
Cross Country frequency
15 a day

Transport for Wales

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
$183 (€150)
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Loughborough can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€38), while the average price is around $122 (€99).
The train from Cardiff to Loughborough takes 3h 36m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Loughborough is 122 miles (197 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Loughborough leaves at 4:20 AM.
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 $22 (€18).
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 3h 36m. 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 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 · $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.

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 · $2 · 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.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
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.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Loughborough

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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