- Must visit
Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery
Shrewsbury's main museum, with local history, archaeology, art, and the famous Shropshire Mammoth in a restored music hall.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Shrewsbury
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30
Cheapest price on Aug 30
$39
Average ticket price on Aug 30
$52
Fastest journey on Aug 30
2 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Aug 30
2 h 19 m
Trains on Aug 30
4
Distance
140 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Shrewsbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Shrewsbury will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Fast trains
On Sun, Aug 30, we found 4 trains from Cardiff to Shrewsbury, including 4 direct services.
On Sun, Aug 30 the direct trains cover the 140 km distance in an average of 2 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 9 m .
On Sun, Aug 30 the slowest trains will take 2 h 49 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.
7:42 AM2h09Cardiff9:51 AMShrewsbury$391One-way0 transfers- 8:25 PM2h49Cardiff11:14 PMShrewsbury$451One-way0 transfers
- 8:42 AM2h09Cardiff10:51 AMShrewsbury$551One-way0 transfers
- 12:39 PM2h09Cardiff2:48 PMShrewsbury$671One-way0 transfers
- 12:39 PM2h09Cardiff2:48 PMShrewsbury$671One-way0 transfers
- 8:42 AM2h09Cardiff10:51 AMShrewsbury$551One-way0 transfers
- 7:42 AM2h09Cardiff9:51 AMShrewsbury$391One-way0 transfers
- 8:25 PM2h49Cardiff11:14 PMShrewsbury$451One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Shrewsbury
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Shrewsbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $36 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 32m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, while a train costs an average of $63.
Distance: 86 miles (140 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$63 Average price | $36 Average price Cheapest | $39 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 32m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 51m Average total duration 6h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Shrewsbury is a bus with an average price of $36 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Shrewsbury:
A bus is $26 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Shrewsbury costing on average $63 (€51).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Shrewsbury is by train with an average journey time of 2h 2m.
Other travel options to Shrewsbury take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Shrewsbury including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Shrewsbury 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 54m sooner (2h 2m by train vs 2h 56m by car). Tickets start at around $63 (€51) compared to roughly $39 (€32) 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 Shrewsbury train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Shrewsbury trains for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:53 AM Cardiff | 2h00 | 11:53 AM Shrewsbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:17 PM Cardiff | 2h02 | 6:19 PM Shrewsbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:35 PM Cardiff | 2h51 | 8:26 PM Shrewsbury | 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 Shrewsbury by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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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Aug 30
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Why should you book Cardiff to Shrewsbury trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Shrewsbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Shrewsbury.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Shrewsbury.
- 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Shrewsbury.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Shrewsbury.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Shrewsbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Shrewsbury run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:37, the last at 23:31. The fastest train covers the 86 miles (140 km) distance in 1h 59m.
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 86 miles (140 km) |
Average train duration 2h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 1h 59m |
First train 3:37 AM |
Last train 11:31 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 21 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
Train companies: Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Shrewsbury trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Shrewsbury from $28 (€23). 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 Transport for Wales Duration
1h 59m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$28 (€23)
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 Shrewsbury
Things to do in Shrewsbury
Discover the best of Shrewsbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Shrewsbury trip today.
- Recommended
Soldiers of Shropshire Museum
Military museum inside Shrewsbury Castle, presenting the history of the King's Shropshire Light Infantry and related regiments.
- Recommended
Bear Steps Gallery
Independent gallery showing contemporary visual art and craft, valued for changing exhibitions in an intimate town-centre space.
- Must visit
The Quarry
Riverside parkland and promenade that is central to local life, festivals, walks, and classic views of Shrewsbury's skyline.
- Must visit
Wyle Cop
Distinctive cobbled shopping street lined with timber-framed buildings, independent shops, and one of the town's best historic scenes.
- Recommended
Dingle Garden
Sunken formal garden within the Quarry, famed for seasonal planting, floral displays, and peaceful seating near the river.
- Vegetarian
Shropshire Fidget Pie
A rich fruit loaf linked to Shropshire fairs and tea tables, baked with dried fruit and spice. It is a classic regional bake with strong county identity.
Fidget Pie
A traditional county pie filled with bacon, apples, onions and potato in pastry. It reflects Shropshire farmhouse cooking and sweet-savoury local tastes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Shropshire Blue
A blue-veined cow's milk cheese made in Shropshire. Despite the name, it is now a famous regional table cheese with a creamy texture and orange rind.
The Golden Cross
Elegant fine dining restaurant in a Tudor building, known for tasting menus, polished service and modern British cooking using seasonal produce.
Number 4
Well-regarded independent restaurant serving contemporary British and European plates in a smart, intimate setting near the town centre.
House Of The Rising Sun
Stylish bistro and wine bar with modern British dishes, steaks and seafood. Popular central spot with a lively but refined atmosphere.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafes often just use a small tip jar.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Shrewsbury Railway Station -> Shrewsbury Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Shrewsbury. Ask the driver for the best value ticket before you pay.
- Shrewsbury is compact and many central sights are walkable from the railway station. Check live bus times in the Arriva UK Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Shrewsbury
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Shrewsbury 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 Shrewsbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Shrewsbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28 (€23), while the average price is around $63 (€51).
The train from Cardiff to Shrewsbury takes 1h 59m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Shrewsbury is 86 miles (140 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Shrewsbury leaves at 3:37 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Shrewsbury leaves at 11:31 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Shrewsbury.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Shrewsbury. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Shrewsbury.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Shrewsbury is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Shrewsbury station (SHR).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Shrewsbury is by train, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
The train journey from Cardiff to Shrewsbury offers scenic views of the Welsh countryside, including rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, making it a pleasant and visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Cardiff to Shrewsbury is not feasible since the journey takes 1h 59m, although trains run 8 times per day over a distance of 86 miles (140 km).
To fully explore Shrewsbury, including its historic town center, landmarks like Shrewsbury Castle and the Quarry Park, and enjoy its local shops and eateries, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Shrewsbury.
Since neither Cardiff nor Shrewsbury 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 Shrewsbury include Wolverhampton, Birmingham, Chester, Wellington, Telford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Shrewsbury 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 Shrewsbury, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and festivals. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and only donate to verified organizations. Staying vigilant in busy spots and securing personal belongings can help 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 Shrewsbury
Most Cardiff to Shrewsbury trains use the Cardiff Central to Shrewsbury station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Shrewsbury 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 Shrewsbury
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.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
City-centre transport
Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cathays train station facilities and services
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Cardiff BayCardiff Bay station, Bute Street, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5LE
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Bay from Cardiff city centre
Cardiff Bay is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Central - Cardiff Bay, Pontypridd - Cardiff Bay, Cardiff Queen Street - Cardiff Bay, Radyr - Cardiff Bay · 3m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus6, 305, Sky · 9m · $5 · every ~10 min
Cardiff Bay train station facilities and services
Cardiff Bay has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Bay.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Bay: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Bay: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Bay: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Shrewsbury station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Shrewsbury most often arrive at Shrewsbury. Some services arrive at Wem, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Shrewsbury arrival station.
ShrewsburyShrewsbury station, Castle Foregate, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY1 2DQ+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Shrewsbury from Shrewsbury city centre
Bus511, 512 · 0m · $2 · every ~2 min
Shrewsbury train station facilities and services
Shrewsbury has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Shrewsbury.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Shrewsbury. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Shrewsbury: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Shrewsbury: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Shrewsbury: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. Step free access to all platforms. The lift to Platform 3 is accessible from the front of the station. The lift to Platforms 4 to 7 is situated at the end of the subway beyond the ticket barriers, 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) take cash, and major debit and credit cards, 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 Shrewsbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Shrewsbury and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Shrewsbury
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