- Must visit
The Box
Plymouth’s main museum, gallery, and archive. It covers local art, natural history, and maritime stories in an impressive contemporary cultural hub.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Plymouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 23
Cheapest price on Oct 23
€62
Average ticket price on Oct 23
€97
Fastest journey on Oct 23
3 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Oct 23
3 h 18 m
Trains on Oct 23
7
Distance
141 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth will cost around €97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €62.
Fast trains
On Fri, Oct 23, we found 7 trains from Cardiff to Plymouth, including 7 direct services.
On Fri, Oct 23 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 3 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .
On Fri, Oct 23 the slowest trains will take 3 h 21 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.
8:28 AM3h20Cardiff11:48 AMPlymouth€621One-way0 transfers- 7:38 AM3h10Cardiff10:48 AMPlymouth€891One-way0 transfers
- 10:30 AM3h30Cardiff2:00 PMPlymouth€911One-way0 transfers
- 7:27 AM3h20Cardiff10:47 AMPlymouth€1091One-way0 transfers
1:00 PM3h32Cardiff4:32 PMPlymouth€1091One-way0 transfers
- 7:38 AM3h10Cardiff10:48 AMPlymouth€891One-way0 transfers
- 7:27 AM3h20Cardiff10:47 AMPlymouth€1091One-way0 transfers
- 9:28 AM3h20Cardiff12:48 PMPlymouth€1101One-way0 transfers
- 8:28 AM3h20Cardiff11:48 AMPlymouth€621One-way0 transfers
- 8:27 AM3h21Cardiff11:48 AMPlymouth€1101One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Plymouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Plymouth run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €38 but you can travel from only €9 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 22:31. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 2h 42m.
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 €9
Distance 87 miles (141 km) |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price €38 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 4:54 AM |
Last train 10:31 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 €9
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Plymouth trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Plymouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €38, while the average price is around €71.
The train from Cardiff to Plymouth takes 2h 42m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Plymouth is 87 miles (141 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Plymouth leaves at 4:54 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Plymouth leaves at 10:31 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Live departures
Cardiff to Plymouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Plymouth trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:27 AM Cardiff | 3h20 | 10:47 AM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:38 AM Cardiff | 3h10 | 10:48 AM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:27 AM Cardiff | 3h21 | 11:48 AM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:28 AM Cardiff | 3h20 | 11:48 AM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:28 AM Cardiff | 3h20 | 12:48 PM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:30 AM Cardiff | 3h30 | 2:00 PM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:00 PM Cardiff | 3h32 | 4:32 PM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Plymouth trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Plymouth.
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 Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Plymouth.
- 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 Plymouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Plymouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Plymouth trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Plymouth from €9. 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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€38
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
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
2h 47m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€72
Great Western Railway frequency
2 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Plymouth
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Plymouth.
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.
Complete guide to Plymouth
Things to do in Plymouth
Discover the best of Plymouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Plymouth trip today.
- Must visit
National Marine Aquarium
Interactive aquarium on the waterfront with ocean habitats, conservation displays, and a huge tank. A popular family attraction with strong educational value.
- Recommended
Merchant's House
Tudor merchant’s residence in the Barbican, furnished to evoke historic domestic life. A compact museum ideal for understanding old Plymouth society.
- Must visit
Plymouth Hoe
Large waterfront parkland with sea views, monuments, and lawns. It is Plymouth’s classic promenade and a prime place to start exploring the city.
- Must visit
The Barbican
Historic harbourside quarter of cobbled lanes, old buildings, galleries, and maritime atmosphere. It is among Plymouth’s most characterful walking areas.
- Recommended
Armada Way
Broad city-centre avenue rebuilt after the Second World War. Shops, civic buildings, and public art make it useful for understanding modern Plymouth.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
A classic Devon cream tea of scones, jam and clotted cream. In Devon, the cream goes on before the jam, making it a proud local ritual.
Pasty
A traditional South West pasty with beef, potato, swede and onion in pastry. Common across Devon and Cornwall and a familiar local grab-and-go meal.
- Gluten-free
Plymouth-Caught Seafood
Fresh fish landed from Plymouth's historic fishing port, often grilled or battered. The city's waterfront location makes local seafood a signature choice.
The Artillery Tower
Refined fine dining restaurant known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and a special occasion atmosphere near Plymouth Hoe.
Jacka Bakery
Long-established market café famous for generous breakfasts, sandwiches and casual local dining in Plymouth Market.
The Harbour Seafood Restaurant and Takeaway
Historic waterside pub in the Barbican serving seafood, local ales and hearty British dishes in a traditional, characterful setting.
British pound (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local buses are fairly priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafes.
Plymouth Citybus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.80
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Plymouth Railway Station -> Plymouth City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Plymouth Citybus buses. Ask the driver for the cheapest valid fare if unsure.
- Plymouth has no tram or metro; most local public transport is by bus. Check live departures in the Plymouth Citybus app before travel.
Plan your visit to Plymouth
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Plymouth.
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Plymouth is considered scenic as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of South Wales and the beautiful coastline of Devon.
Popular day trips by train from Plymouth include Truro, Exeter, Newton Abbot, Newquay, Camborne.
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 Plymouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as the Barbican and city center. Some may encounter overcharging or unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to use licensed taxis. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional scams involving street vendors or unsolicited offers for tours. Staying vigilant and using official transportation and booking channels 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.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Plymouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Plymouth 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 Plymouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Plymouth.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Plymouth
Most Cardiff to Plymouth trains use the Cardiff Central to Plymouth station pair, with some services arriving at Devonport. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Plymouth 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 Plymouth
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 Plymouth station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Plymouth most often arrive at Plymouth. Some services arrive at Devonport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Plymouth arrival station.
PlymouthPlymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Plymouth from Plymouth city centre
Bus13, 2, 170 · 4m · €2 · every ~11 min
Plymouth train station facilities and services
Plymouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Plymouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Plymouth. ATMs are available at Plymouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Plymouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Plymouth: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Plymouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Plymouth: 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 all platforms via lifts and the station subway. 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 may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
DevonportDevonport station, Portland Road, Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 4QN
City-centre transport
Getting to Devonport from Plymouth city centre
Devonport is 2 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainExeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Penzance, Plymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Liskeard · 3m · €1 · every ~2 min
BusDc7 · 8m · €2
Dc7 · 9m · €2
21, 34, 21A · 13m · €4 · every ~23 min
Devonport train station facilities and services
Devonport has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Devonport.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Devonport: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Devonport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Devonport: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. 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 taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Train stations for Cardiff to Plymouth
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Plymouth, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Plymouth is Cardiff Central, which connects to Plymouth.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Plymouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Plymouth and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Plymouth
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