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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Penzance
Showing times and prices for May 08
Cheapest price
$91
Average price
$127
Fastest journey
5 h 12 m
Average duration
5 h 27 m
Trains per day
15
Distance
224 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Penzance is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Penzance will cost around $127 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Penzance without transferring at least once.
P22796+
C75133+P313138:38 AM5h34Cardiff Central (CDF)2:12 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$911One-way2 transfers- P22984 · P2297210:00 AM6h12Cardiff Central (CDF)4:12 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$1261One-way1 transfer
- P22988 · P229762:00 PM5h40Cardiff Central (CDF)7:40 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$1261One-way1 transfer
- P22727+C75192+P2297210:30 AM5h42Cardiff Central (CDF)4:12 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$1261One-way2 transfers
- P22733+C75118+P226721:30 PM5h55Cardiff Central (CDF)7:25 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$1261One-way2 transfers
- P22731+C7508412:30 PM5h12Cardiff Central (CDF)5:42 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$1261One-way1 transfer
- P22719 · P226606:28 AM5h12Cardiff Central (CDF)11:40 AMPenzance station (PNZ)$1421One-way1 transfer
- P22796+C75133+P313138:38 AM5h34Cardiff Central (CDF)2:12 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$911One-way2 transfers
- P22725+C75459+P226659:28 AM5h35Cardiff Central (CDF)3:03 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$1331One-way2 transfers
- P22988 · P229762:00 PM5h40Cardiff Central (CDF)7:40 PMPenzance station (PNZ)$1261One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Penzance
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Penzance among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $140.
Distance: 139 miles (224 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$179 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $80 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 48m Average total duration Fastest 5h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 20m Average total duration 8h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 52m 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 Penzance is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Penzance:
A bus is $148 (€119) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Penzance costing on average $179 (€143).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Penzance is by train with an average journey time of 5h 18m.
Other travel options to Penzance take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Penzance including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Penzance 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 $179 (€143) compared to roughly $80 (€64) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-99.40 (€-79.44). The journey takes 5h 18m versus 3h 52m 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 Penzance train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Penzance trains for today, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P22982 · P22969 | 8:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h38 | 2:38 PM Penzance station (PNZ) | 1 transfer | |
| P22796+C75133+P31313 | 8:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h34 | 2:12 PM Penzance station (PNZ) | 2 transfers | |
| P22983 · P22664 | 9:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h03 | 3:03 PM Penzance station (PNZ) | 1 transfer | |
| P22725+C75459+P22664 | 9:28 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h35 | 3:03 PM Penzance station (PNZ) | 2 transfers | |
| P22984 · P22972 | 10:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h12 | 4:12 PM Penzance station (PNZ) | 1 transfer | |
| P22727+C75192+P22972 | 10:30 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h42 | 4:12 PM Penzance station (PNZ) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Penzance 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 Penzance trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or first_great_western offer trains services from Cardiff to Penzance.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Penzance.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Penzance.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Penzance.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Penzance.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Penzance.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Penzance
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Penzance run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $140 (€112) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:03, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 139 miles (224 km) distance in 6h 3m.
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 $16 (€13)
Distance 139 miles (224 km) |
Average train duration 5h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $140 (€112) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 6h 3m |
First train 5:03 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $16 (€13)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, first_great_western from Cardiff to Penzance trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Penzance from $16 (€13). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
6h 3m
Cheapest Price
$140 (€112)
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
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 45m
Cheapest Price
$156 (€124)
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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 6m
Cheapest Price
$193 (€154)
first_great_western frequency
8 a day
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Penzance
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Penzance 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 Penzance, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Penzance can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $140 (€112), while the average price is around $179 (€143).
The train from Cardiff to Penzance takes 6h 3m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Penzance is 139 miles (224 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Penzance leaves at 5:03 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Penzance leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Penzance.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Penzance. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by first_great_western.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Penzance.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Penzance is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Penzance station (PNZ).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Penzance is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Penzance is considered scenic, offering views of the Welsh countryside, the dramatic coastline of Cornwall, and picturesque towns along the way.
A day trip from Cardiff to Penzance is not feasible due to a travel duration of 6h 3m each way and a distance of 139 miles (224 km). Trains operate 6 times per day.
To fully experience Penzance's attractions, scenery, and local culture, a stay of around 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Penzance.
Since neither Cardiff nor Penzance 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 Penzance include Plymouth, St Ives, Redruth, Truro, Camborne.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Penzance 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 Penzance, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. There are occasional reports of overcharging in taxis, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Travelers should also be cautious of unsolicited offers for tours or accommodations to avoid scams. Overall, Penzance is considered safe, but staying vigilant with personal belongings and verifying service providers helps ensure a trouble-free 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 Penzance
Cardiff
Penzance
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Penzance.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platforms 1 (to Rhymney) via the car park. There are two routes onto the platform, one with a steep gradient and one with a moderate gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Cardiff) via a ramp with a steep gradient. Access between the platforms is via a roadbridge with a walkway but no pavement
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- 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
Public transit options for Llanishen
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Station Road
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: On the road outside the station
The major train station for arrivals in Penzance is Penzance. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Penzance for your journey to Penzance from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:05 - 20:10 Saturday 06:15 - 18:10 Sunday 08:45 - 17:30
Parking
- Car Park: Winter Prices
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A station - This station has step free access to the platforms. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible ticket machines: There are 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
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Shoreline bed and breakfast by the sea
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Penzance
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: The Bus Station adjacent to the station
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Penzance
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Penzance and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Penzance
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