Cardiff to Nottingham train with CrossCountry

Sun, Jul 12
+ Add return
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Nottingham

Showing times and prices for Jul 12

Cheapest price

$101

Average price

$101

Fastest journey

4 h 35 m

Average duration

5 h

Trains per day

6

Distance

214 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Nottingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Nottingham will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Nottingham without transferring at least 2 times.

  • CrossCountryW29776+East Midlands RailwayC21367+Great Western RailwayC00165
    9:35 AM5h12
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:47 PMNottingham station (NOT)
    $1011One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryW29776 · G00813+Great Western RailwayC00165+East Midlands RailwayW70924
    9:35 AM4h54
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:29 PMNottingham station (NOT)
    $1011One-way
    3 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01066+Transport for WalesG39587+East Midlands RailwayC21359
    8:23 AM5h24
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:47 PMNottingham station (NOT)
    $1011One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG39587+CrossCountryG01066 · G00810+East Midlands RailwayC21560
    8:23 AM4h35
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:58 PMNottingham station (NOT)
    $1011One-way
    3 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01071 · G00816+Transport for WalesY61968+East Midlands RailwayW70930
    10:30 AM5h04
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    3:34 PMNottingham station (NOT)
    $1011One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Nottingham

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Nottingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $25.

Distance: 132 miles (214 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$66

Average price

$29

Average price

Cheapest

$58

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 50m

Average total duration

5h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 13m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Nottingham is a bus with an average price of $29 (€24).

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

A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Nottingham costing on average $66 (€54).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Nottingham is by train with an average journey time of 4h 43m.

Other travel options to Nottingham take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 20m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Nottingham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Nottingham 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 $66 (€54) compared to roughly $58 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-7.43 (€-6.11). The journey takes 4h 43m versus 3h 13m 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 Nottingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Nottingham trains for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry8:45 AM Cardiff
3h16
12:01 PM Nottingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry9:45 AM Cardiff
3h18
1:03 PM Nottingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry10:45 AM Cardiff
3h15
2:00 PM Nottingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry11:45 AM Cardiff
3h15
3:00 PM Nottingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry7:05 PM Cardiff
4h18
11:23 PM Nottingham0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Nottingham 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
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18

Why should you book Cardiff to Nottingham trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains or Cross Country offer trains services from Cardiff to Nottingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Nottingham.

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 West Midlands Trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Nottingham.
  • 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 Nottingham.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Nottingham.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Nottingham.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Nottingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Nottingham run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€21) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 20:54. The fastest train covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 3h 14m.

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)
Distance
132 miles (214 km)
Average train duration
4h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
$25 (€21)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
3h 14m
First train
5:14 AM
Last train
8:54 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
21 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 (€15)

Train companies: CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country from Cardiff to Nottingham trainsCrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Nottingham from $18 (€15). 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 14m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€21)
CrossCountry frequency
7 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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 33m
Cheapest Price
$103 (€85)
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$229 (€188)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day

Complete guide to Nottingham

Things to do in Nottingham

Discover the best of Nottingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Nottingham trip today.

  • Must visit

Wollaton Hall and Natural History Museum

Elizabethan mansion housing Nottingham’s natural history collections, set in a large deer park and well known as a filming location.

  • Must visit

Nottingham Contemporary

Major contemporary art gallery with changing exhibitions, striking modern architecture, and a strong national reputation.

  • Recommended

National Justice Museum

Interactive museum in the former courthouse and gaol, exploring crime, punishment, and legal history in Nottingham.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Chain cafes and pubs are affordable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 50+ per person at upscale venues.
Coffee
GBP 3-4 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service charge is uncommon outside some restaurants. Tip 10-12.5% for good table service, round up taxis, and no tip is expected in pubs or cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Nottingham

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Nottingham 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 Nottingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Nottingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€21), while the average price is around $66 (€54).
The train from Cardiff to Nottingham takes 3h 14m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Nottingham leaves at 5:14 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Nottingham is 132 miles (214 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Nottingham leaves at 8:54 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Nottingham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Nottingham. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Nottingham.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Nottingham is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Nottingham station (NOT).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Nottingham is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Cardiff to Nottingham offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and small towns, providing a pleasant, though not particularly dramatic, scenic experience.
A day trip from Cardiff to Nottingham is not feasible as it takes 3h 14m one way. However, trains run 6 times per day.
In Nottingham, you can explore Old Market Square for shopping and dining, enjoy birdwatching at Attenborough Nature Reserve, and catch performances at Nottingham Playhouse. Visit Green's Windmill and Science Centre for interactive exhibits and stroll through The Arboretum. Notable sights include Nottingham Castle with its panoramic views and museum, Wollaton Hall housing the Natural History Museum, The City of Caves, Nottingham Contemporary art gallery, and the historic Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem pub.
To fully experience Nottingham's key attractions, such as Nottingham Castle, the City of Caves, and Wollaton Hall, a 2 to 3-day stay is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Nottingham.
Since neither Cardiff nor Nottingham 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 Nottingham include Leicester, Derby, Sheffield, Birmingham, Loughborough.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Nottingham 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 Nottingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and public transport. Common scams include taxi overcharging and unofficial ticket sellers. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and purchase transport tickets only from official vendors to avoid fraud. Staying aware of surroundings 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Nottingham

Most Cardiff to Nottingham trains use the Cardiff Central to Nottingham station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Nottingham 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 Nottingham
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.

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.

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.

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