- Must visit
The Rugby Football Museum
Celebrates the origins of rugby football at the school where the sport developed. Essential for sports history fans.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Rugby
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Rugby run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 (€52) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 21:15. The fastest train covers the 102 miles (165 km) distance in 2h 21m.
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 $23 (€19)
Distance 102 miles (165 km) |
Average train duration 2h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 (€52) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 21m |
First train 5:14 AM |
Last train 9:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 2 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 $23 (€19)
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Rugby trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Rugby.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Rugby can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $62 (€52), while the average price is around $138 (€116).
The train from Cardiff to Rugby takes 2h 21m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Rugby leaves at 5:14 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Rugby is 102 miles (165 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Rugby leaves at 9:15 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Rugby.
Why should you book Cardiff to Rugby trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Cardiff to Rugby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Rugby.
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 Rugby.
- 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.
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 Rugby.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Rugby trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Rugby from $23 (€19). 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 21m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$62 (€52)
CrossCountry frequency
4 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 38m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$81 (€68)
Great Western Railway frequency
4 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 Rugby
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 Rugby.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Rugby.
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 Rugby
Things to do in Rugby
Discover the best of Rugby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rugby trip today.
- Recommended
Rugby Art Gallery and Museum
The town's main museum tells Rugby's story from Roman finds to social history, with strong local collections and family displays.
- Recommended
Rugby Art Gallery
Contemporary gallery within the town museum complex, showing changing exhibitions and giving a cultural focus to central Rugby.
- Recommended
Caldecott Park
Large formal park with play areas, gardens, and sports facilities. A favourite green space for relaxing near the centre.
- Recommended
Oxford Canal Towpath
Pleasant canal-side walking area with wildlife, boats, and heritage features. Popular for gentle strolls close to town.
- Recommended
Newbold Quarry Park
Open green riverside and meadow landscape on Rugby's edge, valued for walking, birdlife, and quiet local scenery.
Pork Pie
A flaky pastry pie traditionally filled with pork and seasoned jelly. A classic Midlands pub and picnic staple linked to nearby Warwickshire butchers.
- Gluten-free
Beef And Ale Stew
Slow-cooked beef in rich gravy, often with root vegetables. This hearty dish suits the region’s farming heritage and is common in local pubs.
Sunday Roast
Thick slices of roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. A beloved Sunday tradition across Rugby and Warwickshire.
Onley Tandoori
Popular Indian restaurant with a long-standing local reputation for curries, tandoori dishes, and warm service in central Rugby.
Cafe Vin Cinq
Well-known casual venue serving pizzas, pasta, and Italian comfort food. Family-friendly atmosphere with broad appeal in Rugby town centre.
The Dun Cow
Established pub restaurant in Rugby known for steaks, grills, and classic British dishes in a relaxed, traditional setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 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 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis and small cafe bills if service was good.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Rugby Railway Station -> Rugby Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on Stagecoach buses in Rugby. The £2.00 single fare cap applies on many local bus journeys.
- Rugby town centre is a short walk from Rugby Railway Station, so you may not need a bus or taxi for central destinations.
Plan your visit to Rugby
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 Rugby.
The train journey from Cardiff to Rugby offers pleasant views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, providing a scenic experience for travelers.
Popular day trips by train from Rugby include London, Northampton, Coventry, Birmingham, Leamington Spa.
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 Rugby, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and near transport hubs. Scams involving fake taxi drivers or overcharging for transportation can occur, so it's advisable to use licensed taxis or pre-book rides. Additionally, travelers should be aware of local traffic rules when crossing roads, as some busy streets may not have pedestrian crossings. Staying vigilant and securing belongings 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 Rugby
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Rugby 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 Rugby, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Rugby.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Rugby
Most Cardiff to Rugby trains use the Cardiff Central to Rugby station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Rugby 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 Rugby
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 Rugby station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Rugby arrive at Rugby. Rugby is 0 miles (1 km) from Rugby city centre.
RugbyRugby station, Railway Terrace, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 3LA
City-centre transport
Getting to Rugby from Rugby city centre
Rugby is 1 km from Rugby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4, 96S, 8B, 8, 96A, 96, 4A, 2, D1, 8A · 2m · $3 · every ~22 min
4, 4A · 5m · $3 · every ~11 min
Rugby train station facilities and services
Rugby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Rugby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rugby. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rugby: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rugby: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rugby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Steep ramp from entrance to platforms, staff are available to help, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Train stations for Cardiff to Rugby
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Rugby, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Rugby is Cardiff Central, which connects to Rugby.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Rugby
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rugby and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Rugby
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