- Must visit
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Luton's main museum in a Victorian mansion, covering local history, hats, lace, and changing exhibitions in a well-kept park setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Luton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$51
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$69
Fastest journey on Oct 29
3 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
3 h 22 m
Trains on Oct 29
4
Distance
196 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Luton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Luton will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.
Fast trains
On Thu, Oct 29, we found 4 trains from Cardiff to Luton, including 4 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 29 the direct trains cover the 196 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest trains will take 3 h 27 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.
10:50 AM 3h20 Cardiff 2:10 PM Luton $51 1 One-way 0 transfers9:50 AM 3h20 Cardiff 1:10 PM Luton $73 1 One-way 0 transfers10:13 AM 3h27 Cardiff 1:40 PM Luton $76 1 One-way 0 transfers9:49 AM 3h21 Cardiff 1:10 PM Luton $77 1 One-way 0 transfers
10:50 AM 3h20 Cardiff 2:10 PM Luton $51 1 One-way 0 transfers9:50 AM 3h20 Cardiff 1:10 PM Luton $73 1 One-way 0 transfers9:49 AM 3h21 Cardiff 1:10 PM Luton $77 1 One-way 0 transfers10:13 AM 3h27 Cardiff 1:40 PM Luton $76 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Luton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Luton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 (€48) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:25, the last at 21:32. The fastest train covers the 121 miles (196 km) distance in 2h 29m.
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 (€15)
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance121 miles (196 km)
- Average train duration2h 57m
- Cheapest ticket price$56 (€48)
- Trains per day6
- Fastest train2h 29m
- First train1:25 AM
- Last train9:32 PM
- Cheapest MonthMay
- Cheapest DayThu
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Busiest DayFri
- Least Busy DayMon
- Best time to book1 day
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 (€15)
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Luton trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Luton.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $56 (€48), while the average price is around $92 (€78).
The train from Cardiff to Luton takes 2h 29m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Luton is 121 miles (196 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Luton leaves at 1:25 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Luton leaves at 9:32 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Luton.
Live departures
Cardiff to Luton train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Luton trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:49 AM Cardiff | 3h21 | 1:10 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:50 AM Cardiff | 3h20 | 1:10 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:13 AM Cardiff | 3h27 | 1:40 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:50 AM Cardiff | 3h20 | 2:10 PM Luton | 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 Luton trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Luton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Luton.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Luton.
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 Luton.
Train companies
Train companies from Cardiff to Luton
Trains from Cardiff to Luton with Great Western Railway. Night trains available on this route with Great Western Railway. High-speed trains available on this route with Great Western Railway. Regional trains available on this route with Great Western Railway. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 29m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$56 (€48)
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Luton
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cardiff to Luton.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Luton.
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 Luton
Things to do in Luton
Discover the best of Luton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Luton trip today.
- Must visit
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Museum complex with rural life displays, carriages, gardens, and archaeology, making it one of Luton's strongest family-friendly heritage sites.
- Recommended
The Hat Factory at Stockwood Discovery Centre
Working hat factory museum explaining Luton's famous hat-making trade through machinery, displays, and guided tours in an authentic setting.
- Must visit
Wardown Park
Large formal park with lakes, bridges, museum, and broad lawns, ideal for relaxing walks and one of Luton's best-loved green spaces.
- Recommended
Market Hill
Historic town centre square beside St Mary's Church, valued for events, heritage surroundings, and an authentic sense of old Luton.
- Recommended
Stockwood Park
Extensive parkland with gardens, play areas, and museum access, popular for family walks and exploring Luton's former estate landscape.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A Bedfordshire pastry with chopped meat, suet, onions and seasoning. It is closely tied to the county around Luton and is a classic local comfort food.
- Vegetarian
Chocolate Tooth Pudding
A suet dumpling stuffed with currants or jam. Long associated with Bedfordshire home cooking, it is a traditional local pudding served warm.
- Vegetarian
Bedfordshire Fruit Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit and spices. It is a historic Bedfordshire bake often made for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Meah Restaurant
Established Turkish restaurant known for grilled meats, meze and generous portions. Casual atmosphere and dependable local favourite.
Monna Lisa
Well-known Indian restaurant with polished service and a long-standing reputation. Popular for classic curries in a smart but relaxed setting.
The Luton Dosa
Popular South Indian venue serving dosas, idli and vegetarian dishes. Simple setting, strong reputation and reliable regional flavours.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels near the airport can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service may be included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Luton Airport Parkway -> Luton Station Interchange
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Luton. Check fare caps in the operator app before you travel.
- For rail connections, use the DART between Luton Airport Parkway and London Luton Airport. Buy rail and DART tickets from official operators where possible.
Plan your visit to Luton
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 Luton.
The train journey from Cardiff to Luton offers varied scenery, including views of the lush Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of charming towns, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
Popular day trips by train from Luton include London, Bedford, St Albans, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
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 Luton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as Luton Airport and the town center. Taxi scams can occur, so using licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation is advised. Be wary of unofficial currency exchange services offering poor rates or counterfeit notes. Staying vigilant in busy spots and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Luton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Luton 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 Luton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Luton.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Luton
Most Cardiff to Luton trains use the Cardiff Central to Luton station pair, with some services arriving at Luton Airport Parkway. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Luton 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 Luton
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 · $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 4EY
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.
Luton DART ParkwayLuton LU2 0HB, UK
Luton DART Parkway train station facilities and services
Luton DART Parkway has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton DART Parkway: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton from Luton city centre
Bus17 · 7m · $3 · every ~2 min
Luton train station facilities and services
Luton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Luton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton. ATMs are available at Luton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JW
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton Airport Parkway from Luton city centre
Luton Airport Parkway is 1 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCorby - London St Pancras International, Sheffield - London St Pancras International, Nottingham - London St Pancras International, Kettering - London St Pancras International, Wellingborough - London St Pancras International, East Midlands Parkway - London St Pancras International · 2m · $2 · every ~4 min
BusX4, X1, X2, Z, A, X3 · 5m · $5 · every ~41 min
612, X10 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
44, 45, 366 · 6m · $3 · every ~2 min
101, 100 · 10m · $5 · every ~7 min
Luton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Luton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Train stations for Cardiff to Luton
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Luton, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Luton is Cardiff Central, which connects to Luton DART Parkway.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
Most popular trains to and from Luton and Cardiff
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