- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major art museum in Cardiff with Welsh and international collections; worth the trip for high-quality exhibitions and free admission.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Porthcawl
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$14
Average price
$14
Fastest journey
34 m
Average duration
34 m
Trains per day
2
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 2 trains that leave Cardiff for Porthcawl on Thu, Aug 06, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 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 Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 34 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.
11:51 AM0h34Cardiff12:25 PMPorthcawl$141One-way0 transfers- 12:51 PM0h34Cardiff1:25 PMPorthcawl$141One-way0 transfers
- 12:51 PM0h34Cardiff1:25 PMPorthcawl$141One-way0 transfers
- 11:51 AM0h34Cardiff12:25 PMPorthcawl$141One-way0 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 31m. 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) |
1h 1m Average total duration Fastest 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 31m.
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 10m sooner (31m 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, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:51 AM Cardiff | 0h34 | 12:25 PM Porthcawl | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:51 PM Cardiff | 0h34 | 1:25 PM Porthcawl | 0 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.
Thu
Aug 06
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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
Trains from Cardiff to Porthcawl run on average 4 times per day, taking around 31m. 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 31m |
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 Mar |
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)
Transport for Wales frequency
4 a day
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
Complete guide to Porthcawl
Things to do in Porthcawl
Discover the best of Porthcawl — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Porthcawl trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Museum beside St Fagans Castle presenting Welsh life through reconstructed buildings, crafts, and extensive open-air collections.
- Recommended
Porthcawl Museum
Volunteer-run local museum covering Porthcawl’s maritime, social, and holiday history through artefacts, photographs, and changing displays.
- Must visit
Rest Bay
Wide sandy beach and promenade at the heart of town, popular for seaside walks, views, events, and easy access to harbour landmarks.
- Must visit
Wales Coast Path in Porthcawl
Coastal walking route passing beaches, cliffs, and sea viewpoints, making it one of the best ways to experience the Porthcawl shoreline.
- Recommended
Porthcawl Promenade
Classic seafront promenade linking beaches and the harbour, ideal for an easy walk with open views, benches, and storm-watching spots.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Bara Brith
A rich Welsh fruit loaf served sliced with butter. A classic teatime treat across South Wales and a staple in local cafes and homes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Cakes
Traditional Welsh cakes cooked on a griddle, lightly spiced and dotted with currants. Popular in seaside towns for a warm sweet snack.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Fresh cockles gathered on the South Wales coast, often served simply with vinegar or on breakfast plates. A classic regional seafood delicacy.
Isabella's
Well-known local Italian restaurant with a long-standing reputation for pasta, pizza and friendly service in a casual town-centre atmosphere.
Beale's Fish And Chips
Popular seafront fish and chip restaurant known for fresh seafood, generous portions and relaxed coastal dining near the promenade.
The Waterfront
Established pub and restaurant by the sea serving classic Welsh and British dishes, steaks and Sunday roasts in a traditional setting.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town; lodging is seasonal, dining is mid-priced, and local transit costs are similar to other Welsh coastal destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35-60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
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.
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
Most Cardiff to Porthcawl trains use the Cardiff Central to Pyle station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Porthcawl 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 Porthcawl
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.
Heath High LevelHeath High Level station, Heath Halt Road, Heath, Cardiff, CF23 5QT
City-centre transport
Getting to Heath High Level from Cardiff city centre
Heath High Level is 4 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPenarth - Coryton, Penarth - Caerphilly, Bridgend - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach · 4m · $1 · every ~13 min
Penarth - Coryton, Penarth - Caerphilly, Bridgend - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach · 8m · $2 · every ~13 min
Bus28, 29 · 23m · $2 · every ~6 min
Heath High Level train station facilities and services
Heath High Level has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Heath High Level.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heath High Level: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Heath High Level: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heath High Level: 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.
Lisvane & ThornhillLisvane & Thornhill station, Cherry Orchard Road, Thornhill, Cardiff, CF14 0UE+44 3333211202
City-centre transport
Getting to Lisvane & Thornhill from Cardiff city centre
Lisvane & Thornhill is 7 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Central - Caerphilly, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Penarth - Caerphilly, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach, Bridgend - Rhymney · 10m · $2 · every ~9 min
Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Penarth - Caerphilly, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach, Bridgend - Rhymney · 14m · $4 · every ~9 min
Bus27 · 39m · $2 · every ~15 min
86 · 46m · $2 · every ~1 min
Lisvane & Thornhill train station facilities and services
Lisvane & Thornhill 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 Lisvane & Thornhill.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lisvane & Thornhill: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Lisvane & Thornhill: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lisvane & Thornhill: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Rhymney) via a ramp with a steep gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Cardiff) via Clos Llysfaen and a ramp with a shallow gradient. Access between the platforms is via a footbridge, 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 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.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Porthcawl
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Porthcawl and Cardiff
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