- Recommended
The Silk Museum
The town's leading heritage museum, set in a former silk mill, covering Macclesfield's silk industry, local history, and changing exhibitions.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Macclesfield
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Macclesfield among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €25, and a train costs an average of €69.
Distance: 130 miles (210 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€69 Average price | €25 Average price Cheapest | €50 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 42m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 40m Average total duration 6h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Macclesfield is a bus with an average price of €25.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Macclesfield:
A bus is €44 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Macclesfield costing on average €69.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Macclesfield is by train with an average journey time of 3h 12m.
Other travel options to Macclesfield take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Macclesfield including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Macclesfield 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 1h 9m sooner (3h 12m by train vs 4h 21m by car). Tickets start at around €69 compared to roughly €50 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.
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Macclesfield by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Why should you book Cardiff to Macclesfield trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
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 Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Macclesfield
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Macclesfield run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €69 but you can travel from only €25 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:30, the last at 20:46. The fastest train covers the 130 miles (210 km) distance in 3h 20m.
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 €25
Distance 130 miles (210 km) |
Average train duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price €69 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 20m |
First train 5:30 AM |
Last train 8:46 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 €25
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Cardiff to Macclesfield trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Macclesfield from €25. 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 20m
Cheapest Price
€69
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
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 Duration
3h 43m
Cheapest Price
€112
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
€208
Cross Country frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Macclesfield
Things to do in Macclesfield
Discover the best of Macclesfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Macclesfield trip today.
- Recommended
Paradise Mill
Working industrial heritage site with restored looms and machinery, showing how silk was made in Macclesfield's most famous trade.
- Recommended
Avro Heritage Museum
Nearby heritage attraction with extensive aircraft and aviation history displays, often included by visitors exploring the wider Macclesfield area.
- Recommended
Chestergate
Lively central street known for independent shops, historic buildings, and easy access to the town's main heritage and cultural attractions.
- Recommended
Market Place
Historic market area at the heart of town life, ideal for seeing civic architecture, local trade traditions, and the surrounding old streets.
- Recommended
West Park
Large Victorian park with formal planting, open lawns, and a pleasant setting for walks near the town centre and heritage sites.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A famous Cheshire cheese from nearby farms, prized for its crumbly texture and sharp, salty flavour long linked to the county’s dairy heritage.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Brie
A traditional soft cow’s milk cheese from the Cheshire plain, known for its creamy texture and mild flavour; often served on local cheese boards.
- Vegetarian
Cheshire Bitter
A regional ale style historically brewed across Cheshire pubs, valued for balanced malt, gentle bitterness, and local pub culture.
The Wizard Restaurant
Refined modern British restaurant in nearby Prestbury, known for tasting menus, polished service, and a destination fine dining atmosphere.
The Vale Inn
Popular traditional pub in Bollington with Cheshire ales, steak, pies, and gastropub favourites in a cosy, established atmosphere.
Turquoise Sand
Well-known independent restaurant in Macclesfield serving Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with a lively, modern dining room.
British Pound (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are cheaper than Manchester or London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxi tips are optional, often rounding up. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Macclesfield Railway Station -> Macclesfield Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is widely accepted on local buses, including routes run by major operators such as Arriva and Stagecoach.
- Macclesfield rail services are managed separately from buses, so check National Rail for train times and Bee Network or operator sites for bus fares.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Macclesfield
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Macclesfield can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €69, while the average price is around €69.
The train from Cardiff to Macclesfield takes 3h 20m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Macclesfield leaves at 5:30 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Macclesfield is 130 miles (210 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Macclesfield leaves at 8:46 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Macclesfield is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Macclesfield station (MAC).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Macclesfield is by bus, with a cost of around €25.
The train journey from Cardiff to Macclesfield offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Welsh countryside and the rolling hills of the English Midlands.
A day trip from Cardiff to Macclesfield is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 20m. Trains run 6 times per day.
A 1 to 2-day visit in Macclesfield is sufficient to explore its key attractions, including the Silk Museum, the beautiful countryside, and nearby Peak District National Park.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Macclesfield.
Since neither Cardiff nor Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield include Stockport, Manchester, Stoke-on-Trent, Cheadle Hulme, Kidsgrove.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield, travelers should be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. It is advisable to stay alert in busy places and avoid displaying valuables openly. There are occasional reports of taxi scams, so using licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing services is recommended. Travelers should also be aware of local traffic conditions and follow safety guidelines when exploring outdoor 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 Macclesfield
Most Cardiff to Macclesfield trains use the Cardiff Central to Macclesfield station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield
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.
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 Macclesfield station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Macclesfield arrive at Macclesfield. Macclesfield is from Macclesfield city centre.
MacclesfieldMacclesfield station, Waters Green, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 6JP
City-centre transport
Getting to Macclesfield from Macclesfield city centre
Bus391 · 3m · every ~1 min
Macclesfield train station facilities and services
Macclesfield has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Macclesfield.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Macclesfield.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Macclesfield.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Macclesfield: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Macclesfield: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Macclesfield: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Macclesfield
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Macclesfield and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Macclesfield
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