- Must visit
Penlee House Gallery & Museum
Leading gallery for Newlyn School and west Cornwall art. Essential for regional painting, changing exhibitions, and excellent views over Newlyn harbour.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Penzance
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 21
Cheapest price on Sep 21
$183
Average ticket price on Sep 21
$232
Fastest journey on Sep 21
5 h 12 m
Average journey duration on Sep 21
5 h 32 m
Trains on Sep 21
11
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 $232 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $183.
Fast trains
On Mon, Sep 21, we found 11 trains from Cardiff to Penzance, including 1 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 21 the direct trains cover the 224 km distance in an average of 5 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 12 m .
On Mon, Sep 21 the slowest trains will take 5 h 59 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.
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5:58 PM5h42Cardiff11:40 PMPenzance$1831One-way0 transfers- 8:00 AM6h38Cardiff2:38 PMPenzance$2111One-way1 transfer
- 9:00 AM6h03Cardiff3:03 PMPenzance$2111One-way1 transfer
- 10:00 AM6h12Cardiff4:12 PMPenzance$2111One-way1 transfer
- 11:00 AM5h59Cardiff4:59 PMPenzance$2111One-way1 transfer
- 6:28 AM5h12Cardiff11:40 AMPenzance$2481One-way1 transfer
- 12:30 PM5h12Cardiff5:42 PMPenzance$3221One-way1 transfer
- 7:00 PM5h35Cardiff12:35 AMPenzance$2111One-way1 transfer
- 5:58 PM5h42Cardiff11:40 PMPenzance$1831One-way0 transfers
- 11:00 AM5h59Cardiff4:59 PMPenzance$2111One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Penzance
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Penzance among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $48 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 42m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, while a train costs an average of $117.
Distance: 139 miles (224 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$117 Average price | $48 Average price Cheapest | $78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 42m Average total duration Fastest 5h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 1m Average total duration 7h 31m 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 $48 (€40).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Penzance:
A bus is $69 (€56) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Penzance costing on average $117 (€96).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Penzance is by train with an average journey time of 5h 12m.
Other travel options to Penzance take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Penzance including taking a bus and train.
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 $117 (€96) compared to roughly $78 (€64) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-38.61 (€-31.58). The journey takes 5h 12m 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, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W34979 · GW147000 · V13480 · C01221 | 10:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h40 | 5:05 PM Penzance station (PNZ) | 3 transfers | |
| C00850 · GW146900 · V13479 · C33233 | 11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h08 | 6:33 PM Penzance station (PNZ) | 3 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 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.
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
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Sep 27
Sep 27
Why should you book Cardiff to Penzance trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) 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 Great Western Railway (GWR) 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 bus and train 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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Penzance.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train 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 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $85 (€69) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) 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 4h 41m.
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 $27 (€22)
Distance 139 miles (224 km) |
Average train duration 5h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $85 (€69) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 41m |
First train 5:03 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
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 $27 (€22)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Cardiff to Penzance trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Penzance from $27 (€22). 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 Great Western Railway Duration
4h 41m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$113 (€93)
Great Western Railway frequency
3 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
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 CrossCountry Duration
4h 43m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$85 (€69)
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
Complete guide to Penzance
Things to do in Penzance
Discover the best of Penzance — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Penzance trip today.
- Recommended
The Exchange, Newlyn
Community arts center in nearby Newlyn hosting contemporary exhibitions, workshops, and creative projects. Good for current local artistic activity.
- Recommended
Newlyn Art Gallery
Contemporary gallery with changing shows in Newlyn. Worth a visit for modern Cornish art and a strong link to the town’s continuing artistic scene.
- Must visit
Chapel Street
Historic street lined with Georgian and Regency buildings, galleries, and old inns. One of the best walks for character and architectural atmosphere.
- Must visit
Penzance Promenade
Long seafront promenade ideal for coastal walks, sunsets, and views across Mount's Bay. A practical and scenic introduction to Penzance.
- Recommended
Morrab Gardens
Large public garden with subtropical planting, bandstand, and sea views. A classic promenade spot for relaxed walking near the town center.
- Vegetarian
Cornish Saffron Bun
A saffron-enriched yeasted bun from Cornwall, often studded with currants. It is a classic regional bake tied to local mining and fishing communities.
Cornish Pasty
A hearty pastry filled with beef, potato, swede, and onion. Cornwall's most famous portable meal, long linked to miners and now protected by PGI status.
- Gluten-free
Cornish Pilchards
Pilchards, usually sardines, cured or grilled and closely associated with West Cornwall fishing. They reflect Penzance's long maritime food culture.
Argoe
Refined seafood-focused fine dining with tasting menus and polished service in Newlyn near Penzance. Widely respected for modern Cornish cooking.
Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar
Popular harbourside fish restaurant in Newlyn serving very fresh local seafood in a relaxed setting. A strong choice for classic Cornish catches.
Admiral Benbow
Long-established Penzance pub known for real ale, local seafood, and traditional dishes. Casual, friendly atmosphere with a strong local reputation.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK seaside towns: stays rise in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up in cafes and for taxis, or add a small tip for good service.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city center
Penzance Railway Station -> Penzance Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses in Penzance accept contactless card and mobile payments onboard. Buy before boarding in the First Bus app to save time.
- Penzance is compact, and the railway station is within walking distance of the town centre and bus stops for onward travel.
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 $85 (€69), while the average price is around $117 (€96).
The train from Cardiff to Penzance takes 4h 41m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Penzance leaves at 5:03 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Penzance is 139 miles (224 km).
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 Great Western Railway (GWR).
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 $27 (€22).
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 4h 41m 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
Most Cardiff to Penzance trains use the Cardiff Central to Penzance station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Penzance 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 Penzance
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.
Which Penzance station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Penzance arrive at Penzance. Penzance is from Penzance city centre.
PenzancePenzance station, Wharf Road, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 2LT
City-centre transport
Getting to Penzance from Penzance city centre
Bus39A, 16A, 16, 8, 2, 1, 1A, 4, 4A, 6, 17 · 2m · $2 · every ~19 min
Penzance train station facilities and services
Penzance has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, 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 Penzance.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Penzance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Penzance.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Penzance: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Penzance: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Penzance: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Shoreline bed and breakfast by the sea.
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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