- Must visit
MIMA, Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art
Major contemporary art museum with changing exhibitions, public art, and Teesside links, making it the town's cultural flagship.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Middlesbrough
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
€77
Average price
€164
Fastest journey
6 h 4 m
Average duration
6 h 33 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
368 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Middlesbrough is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Middlesbrough will cost around €164 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €77.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cardiff for Middlesbrough on Tue, Aug 04, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct trains cover the 368 km distance in an average of 6 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 4 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 6 h 51 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.
7:53 AM6h43Cardiff2:36 PMMiddlesbrough€771One-way0 transfers
8:45 AM6h04Cardiff2:49 PMMiddlesbrough€2061One-way0 transfers- 9:45 AM6h51Cardiff4:36 PMMiddlesbrough€2101One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 AM6h04Cardiff2:49 PMMiddlesbrough€2061One-way0 transfers
- 7:53 AM6h43Cardiff2:36 PMMiddlesbrough€771One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 AM6h51Cardiff4:36 PMMiddlesbrough€2101One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Middlesbrough
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Middlesbrough among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 40m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €28, and a train costs an average of €67.
Distance: 228 miles (368 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€143 Average price | €41 Average price Cheapest | €82 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 10m Average total duration Fastest 5h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 18m Average total duration 8h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 7m 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 Middlesbrough is a bus with an average price of €41.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Middlesbrough:
A bus is €102 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Middlesbrough costing on average €143.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Middlesbrough is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.
Other travel options to Middlesbrough take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 40m.
Bus takes on average 8h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Middlesbrough including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Middlesbrough 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 €143 compared to roughly €82 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-60.82. The journey takes 5h 40m versus 5h 7m 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 Middlesbrough train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Middlesbrough trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:53 AM Cardiff | 6h43 | 2:36 PM Middlesbrough | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:45 AM Cardiff | 6h04 | 2:49 PM Middlesbrough | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:45 AM Cardiff | 6h51 | 4:36 PM Middlesbrough | 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 Middlesbrough 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.
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Why should you book Cardiff to Middlesbrough trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Middlesbrough.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Middlesbrough.
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 Middlesbrough.
- 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 Middlesbrough.
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 Middlesbrough.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Middlesbrough.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Middlesbrough
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Middlesbrough run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €67 but you can travel from only €28 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:32, the last at 18:26. The fastest train covers the 228 miles (368 km) distance in 5h 47m.
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 €28
Distance 228 miles (368 km) |
Average train duration 5h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price €67 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 5h 47m |
First train 4:32 AM |
Last train 6:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 €28
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Cardiff to Middlesbrough trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Middlesbrough from €28. 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
5h 47m
Cheapest Price
€206
CrossCountry frequency
4 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
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
6h 35m
Cheapest Price
€67
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
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
5h 42m
Cheapest Price
€323
Cross Country frequency
8 a day
Complete guide to Middlesbrough
Things to do in Middlesbrough
Discover the best of Middlesbrough — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Middlesbrough trip today.
- Recommended
Captain Cook Birthplace Museum
Interactive local history museum in Stewart Park, best known as the birthplace of Captain Cook and for family-friendly displays.
- Recommended
Preston Park Museum
Specialist railroad museum at Preston Park displaying the story of the Stockton and Darlington Railway with engines and archives.
- Must visit
Stewart Park
Large park with lakes, woodland, and the Captain Cook museum, ideal for family walks, wildlife, and relaxed outdoor time.
- Must visit
Roseberry Topping
Popular hilltop viewpoint on the edge of town, known for panoramic Teesside views, woodland trails, and the Captain Cook monument.
- Recommended
Centre Square
Central public square framed by civic buildings, events, and public art; a practical starting point for exploring the town centre.
Parmo
The Teesside version of the parmo: breaded chicken or pork topped with béchamel and cheese, then grilled. It is the area's best-known takeaway classic.
Pease Pudding Stottie
A soft white bun split and filled with pease pudding, ham or other savoury fillings. Common across North East England and still familiar on Teesside.
Beef And Ale Pie
Rich beef stew slow-cooked with ale, often linked to Yorkshire and the North East. A hearty pub staple suited to the region's industrial heritage.
The Black Swan At Oldstead
Refined tasting-menu restaurant by Tommy Banks inside a historic pub. Known for seasonal Yorkshire produce and polished but relaxed fine dining.
Cena Trattoria
Well-regarded modern British restaurant in Yarm with steaks, seafood and classics. Smart, lively setting popular for reliable special-occasion dining.
The Fox And Hounds, Nunthorpe
Established gastro pub in Nunthorpe serving hearty British favourites, Sunday roasts and drinks in a stylish but approachable local setting.
British pound sterling (£)
More affordable than larger UK cities, with cheaper hotels, meals, and local transport for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-10 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafes is optional.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Middlesbrough Railway Station -> Middlesbrough Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses accept contactless card payment; check the operator before boarding if you need cashless payment.
- Arriva day tickets can offer better value than single fares if you make several bus trips in one day.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Middlesbrough
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Middlesbrough 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 Middlesbrough, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Middlesbrough can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €67, while the average price is around €143.
The train from Cardiff to Middlesbrough takes 5h 47m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Middlesbrough is 228 miles (368 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Middlesbrough leaves at 4:32 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Middlesbrough leaves at 6:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Middlesbrough.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Middlesbrough.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Middlesbrough.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Middlesbrough is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Middlesbrough station (MBR).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Middlesbrough is by bus, with a cost of around €28.
The train journey from Cardiff to Middlesbrough offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and small towns, providing passengers with varied and picturesque landscapes along the route.
A day trip from Cardiff to Middlesbrough is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 47m. However, there are 5 train trips available per day.
To explore Middlesbrough's main attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended. This allows time to visit highlights such as the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art, Tees Transporter Bridge, and Albert Park.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Middlesbrough.
Since neither Cardiff nor Middlesbrough 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 Middlesbrough include Newcastle, Hartlepool, Sunderland, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Leeds.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Middlesbrough 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 Middlesbrough, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas such as the town center and public transport hubs. Scams involving overcharging in taxis have been reported, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxi services or pre-book rides. Staying alert in nightlife areas and avoiding poorly lit streets at night can help ensure safety.
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 Middlesbrough
Most Cardiff to Middlesbrough trains use the Cardiff Central to Middlesbrough station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Middlesbrough 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 Middlesbrough
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.
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 Middlesbrough station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Middlesbrough arrive at Middlesbrough. Middlesbrough is from Middlesbrough city centre.
MiddlesbroughMiddlesbrough station, Zetland Road, Middlesbrough station, Cleveland, TS1 1EG+44 1895262122
City-centre transport
Getting to Middlesbrough from Middlesbrough city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off in the layby on Bridge Street at the rear of the station.
Middlesbrough train station facilities and services
Middlesbrough has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Middlesbrough.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Middlesbrough.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Middlesbrough.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Middlesbrough: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Middlesbrough: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Middlesbrough: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free access is provided from the station entrance to all platforms. Lifts are used to provide level access from the subway to both platforms, the booking hall and concourse. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance throughout the station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay), Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine is located within the Booking Hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Middlesbrough
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Middlesbrough and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Middlesbrough
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
