Cardiff to Porthcawl train with Transport for Wales

Fri, May 08
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Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Porthcawl

Showing times and prices for May 08

Cheapest price

$14

Average price

$14

Fastest journey

34 m

Average duration

34 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

36 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Porthcawl is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Porthcawl will cost around $14 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Cardiff for Porthcawl on Fri, May 08, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, May 08 the direct trains cover the 36 km distance in an average of 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 34 m .

On Fri, May 08 the slowest trains will take 35 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.

  • Transport for Wales
    10:54 AM0h34
    Cardiff
    11:28 AMPorthcawl
    $141One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for Wales
    12:51 PM0h34
    Cardiff
    1:25 PMPorthcawl
    $141One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for Wales
    1:05 PM0h35
    Cardiff
    1:40 PMPorthcawl
    $141One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Cardiff to Porthcawl

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Porthcawl among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $14, and a train costs an average of $14.

Distance: 22 miles (36 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$14

Average price

Cheapest

$10

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

59m

Average total duration

Fastest

29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

41m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Porthcawl is a train with an average price of $14 (€11).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Porthcawl is by train with an average journey time of 29m.

Other travel options to Porthcawl take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 44m.

Yes, you can take a train between Cardiff and Porthcawl.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Porthcawl among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 12m sooner (29m by train vs 41m by car). Tickets start at around $14 (€11) compared to roughly $10 (€8) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Transport for Wales.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cardiff to Porthcawl train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Porthcawl trains for today, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
transport_for_wales10:54 AM Cardiff
0h34
11:28 AM Porthcawl0 transfersDirect
transport_for_wales12:59 PM Cardiff
0h41
1:40 PM Porthcawl0 transfersDirect
transport_for_wales1:05 PM Cardiff
0h35
1:40 PM Porthcawl0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Porthcawl by train

Compare 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.

Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13
Thu
May 14

Why should you book Cardiff to Porthcawl trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales operates all trains services from Cardiff to Porthcawl.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Porthcawl.

Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?

  • 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Porthcawl

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Porthcawl run on average 4 times per day, taking around 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 (€11) if you book in advance.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 22 miles (36 km) distance in 34m.

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
Distance
22 miles (36 km)
Average train duration
29m
Cheapest ticket price
$14 (€11)
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
34m
First train
5:35 AM
Last train
11:54 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
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

Train companies: Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Porthcawl trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Porthcawl from $14 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
34m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Porthcawl

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Porthcawl 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 Porthcawl, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Porthcawl can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $14 (€11), while the average price is around $14 (€11).
The train from Cardiff to Porthcawl takes 34m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Porthcawl is 22 miles (36 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Porthcawl leaves at 5:35 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Porthcawl leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Porthcawl.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Porthcawl. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Porthcawl.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Porthcawl is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Pyle station (PYL).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Porthcawl is by train, with a cost of around $14 (€11).
The journey from Cardiff to Porthcawl is not directly served by a train; travelers typically take a train to Bridgend and then a bus to Porthcawl. While the train route from Cardiff to Bridgend offers views of the South Wales countryside, the bus journey from Bridgend to Porthcawl provides glimpses of coastal scenery and local landscapes.
Yes, a day trip from Cardiff to Porthcawl is feasible. The journey takes 34m, covering a distance of 22 miles (36 km), with a frequency of 4 train trips per day.
Two to three days are usually sufficient to explore Porthcawl's beaches, local attractions, and enjoy its coastal charm.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Porthcawl.
Since neither Cardiff nor Porthcawl 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 Porthcawl include Newport, Cwmbran, Merthyr Tydfil, Reading, Cheltenham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Porthcawl 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 Porthcawl, travelers should be mindful of typical coastal safety concerns such as strong tides and slippery rocks when visiting beaches. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting visitors, but standard precautions like safeguarding personal belongings and being cautious with unsolicited offers are advisable.
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 Porthcawl

Cardiff
Porthcawl
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
Dining
  • Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
  • Pret a Manger
  • Tesco Express
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
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
Hotel
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff
  • Cardiff Marriott Hotel
  • Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Category B3. The station is not suitable for wheelchair or powered mobility scooter users. Platform 1 (to Rhymney) has a long, steep access ramp. Platform 2 (to Cardiff) is only accessible via 41 steps. Customers travelling from the Rhymney Valley are advised to alight at Cardiff Queen Street and return to Heath Low Level.
  • 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 Heath High Level
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait outside station on Heath Halt Road
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time.
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Hotel
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
  • Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Porthcawl

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