- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Poole
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $90
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $90
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 4 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 4 h 10 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 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 $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $90.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 1 trains from Cardiff to Poole, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 119 km distance in an average of 4 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 10 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 4 h 10 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.
12:56 PM 4h10 Cardiff 5:06 PM Poole $90 1 One-way 0 transfers
12:56 PM 4h10 Cardiff 5:06 PM Poole $90 1 One-way 0 transfers
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 $85 (€71) but you can travel from only $25 (€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 $25 (€21)
Distance 73 miles (119 km) |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $85 (€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 $25 (€21)
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Poole trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Poole.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Poole can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $85 (€71), while the average price is around $111 (€94).
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 direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Poole.
Why should you book Cardiff to Poole trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or South Western Railway 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 CrossCountry or South Western Railway 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Poole.
- 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.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Cardiff to Poole trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Poole from $25 (€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
$85 (€71)
Great Western Railway frequency
5 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
$125 (€105)
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
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$244 (€204)
South Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Poole
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cardiff to Poole.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Poole.
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 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.
Plan your visit to Poole
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 Poole.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Poole include Southampton, Bournemouth, Hamworthy, Christchurch, New Milton.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Poole.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Poole
Most Cardiff to Poole trains use the Cardiff Central to Poole station pair, with some services arriving at Parkstone (Dorset). 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 · $3 · 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 most often arrive at Poole. Some services arrive at Parkstone (Dorset), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Poole arrival station.
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.
Parkstone (Dorset)Parkstone station, Station Road, Parkstone, Dorset, BH14 8UD
City-centre transport
Getting to Parkstone (Dorset) from Poole city centre
Parkstone (Dorset) is 3 km from Poole city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPoole - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Southampton Central, Weymouth - Bournemouth, Poole - Brockenhurst, Poole - Winchester, Poole - Bournemouth, Weymouth - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Poole - Southampton Central · 3m · $2 · every ~4 min
Buscity_sightseeing_bournemouth · 7m · every ~2 min
m1, 419, 449, N1 · 13m · $3 · every ~34 min
m1, U2, N1 · 14m · $3 · every ~47 min
Parkstone (Dorset) train station facilities and services
Parkstone (Dorset) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Parkstone (Dorset).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Parkstone (Dorset).
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Parkstone (Dorset): Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Parkstone (Dorset): Bike Parking.
Train stations for Cardiff to Poole
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Poole, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Poole is Cardiff Central, which connects to Poole.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
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
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