- 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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Travel Information
Compare train for Cardiff to Rugby
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Rugby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $34 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 0m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, while a train costs an average of $119.
Distance: 102 miles (165 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$119 Average price | $34 Average price Cheapest | $46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Rugby is a bus with an average price of $34 (€28).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Rugby:
A bus is $85 (€69) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Rugby costing on average $119 (€97).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Rugby is by train with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Rugby take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 25m.
Yes, you can take a train between Cardiff and Rugby.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Rugby 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 (2h 30m by train vs 2h 40m by car). Tickets start at around $119 (€97) compared to roughly $46 (€38) 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.
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.
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Rugby 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.
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Why should you book Cardiff to Rugby trains with Omio?
CrossCountry operates all 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?
- 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 Rugby
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Rugby run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 (€52) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) 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 $29 (€24)
Distance 102 miles (165 km) |
Average train duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 (€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 $29 (€24)
Train companies: CrossCountry from Cardiff to Rugby trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Rugby from $29 (€24). 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
$63 (€52)
CrossCountry frequency
6 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 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.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Rugby can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $63 (€52), while the average price is around $119 (€97).
The train from Cardiff to Rugby takes 2h 21m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Rugby is 102 miles (165 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Rugby leaves at 5:14 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Rugby leaves at 9:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Rugby.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Rugby.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Rugby.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Rugby is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Rugby station (RUG).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Rugby is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Rugby.
Popular day trips by train from Rugby include London, Northampton, Coventry, Birmingham, Leamington Spa.
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 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.
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 · $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 Rugby station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Rugby most often arrive at Rugby. Some services arrive at Long Buckby, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Rugby arrival station.
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 · $2 · every ~22 min
4, 4A · 5m · $2 · 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.
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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