- Must visit
Poole Museum
Harbourside museum of Poole's maritime, social, and pottery history in restored quayside buildings. A strong introduction to the town's past and port identity.
.png){kind=small}
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 Poole
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€84
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€84
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 53 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 53 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
119 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Poole is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Poole will cost around €84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €84.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Cardiff to Poole, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 119 km distance in an average of 4 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 53 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 53 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.
8:40 AM4h53Cardiff1:33 PMPoole€841One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM4h53Cardiff1:33 PMPoole€841One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Poole
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Poole among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €54 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 57m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €54, while a train costs an average of €91.
Distance: 73 miles (119 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€91 Average price | €54 Average price Cheapest | €34 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 46m Average total duration 6h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Poole is a bus with an average price of €54.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Poole:
A bus is €36 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Poole costing on average €91.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Poole is by train with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Poole take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 16m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Poole including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Poole 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 €91 compared to roughly €34 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-56.98. The journey takes 3h 27m versus 2h 54m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Poole 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Cardiff to Poole trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff to Poole.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Poole.
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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Poole.
- 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 Poole.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Poole.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Poole
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Poole run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €71 but you can travel from only €21 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:16, the last at 20:41. The fastest train covers the 73 miles (119 km) distance in 3h 1m.
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 €21
Distance 73 miles (119 km) |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price €71 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 1m |
First train 4:16 AM |
Last train 8:41 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 3 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 €21
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Cardiff to Poole trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Poole from €21. 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
3h 3m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€71
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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
3h 1m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€104
CrossCountry frequency
1 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 Poole
Things to do in Poole
Discover the best of Poole — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Poole trip today.
- Recommended
The Gallery at Lighthouse
Contemporary art centre with changing exhibitions, a respected gallery programme, and cultural events. Worth visiting for modern visual art in central Poole.
- Recommended
Poole Old Lifeboat Museum
Volunteer-run museum preserving Poole's RNLI history, lifeboats, and rescue stories. A compact stop for maritime heritage near the quay.
- Must visit
Poole Quay
Historic waterfront lined with boats, heritage buildings, and harbour views. A must for atmosphere, walks, and seeing Poole's maritime character up close.
- Must visit
Brownsea Island
National Trust island of heath, lagoon, and woodland in Poole Harbour. Famous for red squirrels, birdlife, and memorable coastal walking.
- Must visit
Sandbanks
Sandy peninsula with sweeping harbour and bay views, beach access, and an easy walking route. Popular for sunsets, watersports scenery, and open space.
- Gluten-free
Poole Crab
Fresh shellfish long landed on Poole Quay. Locally served crab highlights the harbour’s fishing heritage and is prized for sweet, delicate meat.
Toad In The Hole
A Dorset staple of local sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding batter. It is a comforting pub classic widely eaten across Poole and the county.
- Vegetarian
Dorset Apple Cake
Traditional Dorset fruit cake made with dried fruit, spice and tea. It is closely associated with county baking and often served sliced with tea.
The Guildhall Tavern
Elegant harbourside seafood restaurant known for refined local fish dishes, tasting menus and polished service in a special-occasion setting.
Storm Fish Restaurant
Popular waterside restaurant on Poole Quay serving fresh seafood, grilled fish and shellfish in a relaxed, lively harbour atmosphere.
Poole Arms
Well-known traditional fish and chip restaurant near the quay, valued for sustainably sourced seafood and a casual family-friendly setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Poole is moderate for UK seaside towns: lodging rises in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes may use tip jars, but small change only.
More Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city center
Poole Railway Station -> Poole Quay, Poole
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on Morebus services in Poole. Ask the driver for the best value ticket if making multiple trips.
- Poole town centre is compact, and Poole Quay is a short walk from Poole Railway Station. Check live bus times in the More Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Poole
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Poole 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 Poole, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Poole can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €71, while the average price is around €91.
The train from Cardiff to Poole takes 3h 1m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Poole leaves at 4:16 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Poole is 73 miles (119 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Poole leaves at 8:41 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Poole.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Poole.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Poole.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Poole is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Poole station (POO).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Poole is by bus, with a cost of around €21.
The train journey from Cardiff to Poole offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of South Wales and the charming countryside of Dorset. Passengers can enjoy views of rolling hills, coastal scenery, and quaint towns along the route.
A day trip from Cardiff to Poole is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 1m, exceeding the 120-minute limit. Trains run 5 times per day.
For a fulfilling visit to Poole, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days. This allows enough time to explore its beautiful harbor, visit the nearby beaches, and enjoy local attractions such as Brownsea Island and the Poole Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Poole.
Since neither Cardiff nor Poole 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 Poole include Southampton, Bournemouth, Hamworthy, Christchurch, New Milton.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Poole 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 Poole, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and popular beaches. Avoid unlicensed taxi services and be wary of overcharging. When using ATMs, ensure they are in secure locations to prevent card skimming. Always keep an eye on personal belongings in busy spots and follow local advice for safe travel around marine and coastal areas.
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 Poole
Most Cardiff to Poole trains use the Cardiff Central to Poole station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Poole 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 Poole
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 Poole station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Poole arrive at Poole. Poole is 0 miles (1 km) from Poole city centre.
PoolePoole station, Serpentine Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Poole from Poole city centre
Poole is 1 km from Poole city centre. Public transport options include:
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation forecourt, off Serpentine Road
Poole train station facilities and services
Poole has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Poole.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Poole. ATMs are available at Poole.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Poole.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Poole: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Poole: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Poole: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - There is level access to both sides of the station by ramps. Interchange between platforms is via a ramped underpass at the London end of the platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, 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 Poole
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Poole and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Poole
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.
