- 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 and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€122
Average price
€122
Fastest journey
3 h 38 m
Average duration
3 h 38 m
Trains per day
1
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 €122 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €122.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cardiff for Loughborough on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 197 km distance in an average of 3 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 38 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 38 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.
8:49 AM3h38Cardiff12:27 PMLoughborough€1221One-way0 transfers
- 8:49 AM3h38Cardiff12:27 PMLoughborough€1221One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Loughborough
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Loughborough run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €38 but you can travel from only €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 €18
Distance 122 miles (197 km) |
Average train duration 3h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price €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 €18
Live departures
Cardiff to Loughborough train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Loughborough trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:49 AM Cardiff | 3h38 | 12:27 PM Loughborough | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
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 €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
€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
€184
Cross Country frequency
15 a day
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
€150
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
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 €38, while the average price is around €99.
The train from Cardiff to Loughborough takes 3h 36m and runs 3 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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Loughborough.
Popular day trips by train from Loughborough include Leicester, Derby, Nottingham, Beeston, Market Harborough.
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.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
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.
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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