- Must visit
Tate St Ives
Major modern art museum with sea-facing setting and rotating exhibitions. A top stop for British modernism and St Ives artistic history.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to St Ives
Showing times and prices for Jul 28
Cheapest price
$154
Average price
$154
Fastest journey
5 h 59 m
Average duration
6 h 12 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
215 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to St Ives is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to St Ives will cost around $154 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $154.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to St Ives without transferring at least 2 times.
G15185 · W34791 · Y155789:00 AM6h30Cardiff Central (CDF)3:30 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way2 transfers- G15184 · G15170 · Y155688:00 AM6h58Cardiff Central (CDF)2:58 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way2 transfers
- G15186 · G15171 · Y1559810:00 AM6h29Cardiff Central (CDF)4:29 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way2 transfers
- G15008+
G01140+G15171 · Y1559810:30 AM5h59Cardiff Central (CDF)4:29 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way3 transfers - G15006+G01135+W34791 · Y155789:28 AM6h02Cardiff Central (CDF)3:30 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way3 transfers
- G15008+G01140+G15171 · Y1559810:30 AM5h59Cardiff Central (CDF)4:29 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way3 transfers
- G15006+G01135+W34791 · Y155789:28 AM6h02Cardiff Central (CDF)3:30 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way3 transfers
- W34974+G01133+Y41595 · Y155588:27 AM6h02Cardiff Central (CDF)2:29 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way3 transfers
- G15186 · G15171 · Y1559810:00 AM6h29Cardiff Central (CDF)4:29 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way2 transfers
- G15185 · W34791 · Y155789:00 AM6h30Cardiff Central (CDF)3:30 PMSt Ives station (SIV)$1541One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to St Ives
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to St Ives among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 41m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $57.
Distance: 133 miles (215 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$112 Average price | $22 Average price Cheapest | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 11m Average total duration Fastest 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 2m Average total duration 7h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 49m 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 St Ives is a bus with an average price of $22 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to St Ives:
A bus is $90 (€90) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to St Ives costing on average $112 (€112).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to St Ives is by train with an average journey time of 5h 41m.
Other travel options to St Ives take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and St Ives including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to St Ives among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $112 (€112) compared to roughly $63 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-49.14 (€-49.14). The journey takes 5h 41m versus 3h 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Cardiff to St Ives train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to St Ives trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, July 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G15184 · G15170 · Y15568 | 8:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h58 | 2:58 PM St Ives station (SIV) | 2 transfers | |
| W34974+G01133+Y41595 · Y15558 | 8:27 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h02 | 2:29 PM St Ives station (SIV) | 3 transfers | |
| G15185 · W34791 · Y15578 | 9:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h30 | 3:30 PM St Ives station (SIV) | 2 transfers | |
| G15006+G01135+W34791 · Y15578 | 9:28 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h02 | 3:30 PM St Ives station (SIV) | 3 transfers | |
| G15186 · G15171 · Y15598 | 10:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h29 | 4:29 PM St Ives station (SIV) | 2 transfers | |
| G15008+G01140+G15171 · Y15598 | 10:30 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h59 | 4:29 PM St Ives station (SIV) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to St Ives 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.
Tue
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Sat
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Why should you book Cardiff to St Ives trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff to St Ives.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to St Ives.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to St Ives.
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to St Ives.
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 St Ives.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to St Ives
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to St Ives run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 (€57) but you can travel from only $13 (€13) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:48, the last at 22:12. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 5h 51m.
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 $13 (€13)
Distance 133 miles (215 km) |
Average train duration 5h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $57 (€57) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 51m |
First train 5:48 AM |
Last train 10:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 77 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 $13 (€13)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff to St Ives trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff and St Ives from $13 (€13). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
5h 51m
Cheapest Price
$57 (€57)
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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 28m
Cheapest Price
$212 (€212)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to St Ives
Things to do in St Ives
Discover the best of St Ives — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect St Ives trip today.
- Must visit
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
Barbara Hepworth’s preserved studio and garden display her sculptures in the place she lived and worked. Essential for art lovers.
- Recommended
St Ives Museum
Compact museum covering fishing, mining, maritime, and social history. It gives valuable context to the town beyond its beaches and galleries.
- Must visit
Porthmeor Beach
Golden crescent beach backed by Tate St Ives and surfing waves. One of the town’s most famous and scenic places to walk and linger.
- Must visit
Porthminster Beach
Long sandy beach east of the center with broad bay views. Popular for swimming, walks, and a quieter atmosphere than the harbour.
- Must visit
Downalong
Historic maze of narrow lanes and cottages near the harbour. It captures the old fishing-town character that gives St Ives its charm.
- Gluten-free
Stargazy-Inspired Cornish Fish Stew
A rich Cornish fish stew of mixed local seafood in a saffron broth. It is a classic coastal dish linked closely with Cornwall’s fishing heritage.
Cornish Pasty
Cornwall’s famous baked pastry with beef, potato, swede and onion. Traditionally made as a portable meal for miners and still widely loved locally.
Pilchard Hoggans
A split bread roll filled with local pilchards or sardines. It reflects St Ives fishing traditions and is a simple, classic Cornish seaside lunch.
Porthminster Beach Cafe
A Celebrated beachside restaurant with refined Cornish seafood, tasting menus and sea views. Ideal for a special meal in St Ives.
Porthminster Kitchen
A Popular seafood restaurant and fishmonger near the harbour, known for very fresh Cornish fish in a relaxed modern setting.
St Ives Bakery
A Long-established bakery and cafe famous for Cornish pasties, saffron cake and other regional bakes. Good for a traditional quick bite.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK seaside resorts. Summer stays cost more, but dining and local buses are similar to other Cornwall tourist towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food, bakery items, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino or flat white.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city center
St Ives Railway Station -> St Ives Harbour
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on First Bus services in Cornwall; rail tickets for the branch line are usually bought separately.
- St Ives is compact and central sights are walkable from the rail station, but park-and-ride and seasonal bus services can reduce congestion in summer.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to St Ives
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to St Ives 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 St Ives, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to St Ives can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57 (€57), while the average price is around $112 (€112).
The train from Cardiff to St Ives takes 5h 51m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to St Ives is 133 miles (215 km).
The first train from Cardiff to St Ives leaves at 5:48 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to St Ives leaves at 10:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to St Ives.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to St Ives.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to St Ives.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to St Ives is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to St Ives station (SIV).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to St Ives is by bus, with a cost of around $13 (€13).
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to St Ives is scenic, offering views of the Welsh countryside, the rugged coastline of Cornwall, and charming towns along the way.
A day trip from Cardiff to St Ives is not feasible due to a travel duration of 5h 51m. The journey covers a distance of 133 miles (215 km), with train services available 5 times per day.
In St Ives, you can take a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path, enjoy a boat trip to Seal Island, visit the St Ives Museum, participate in a local art workshop, and explore vibrant local markets. Best sights include the Tate St Ives, Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, St Ives Harbour, Porthmeor Beach, and The Leach Pottery.
To fully enjoy the charming town of St Ives, two to three days are ideal for exploring its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and local attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to St Ives.
Since neither Cardiff nor St Ives 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 St Ives include Penzance, Plymouth, Newquay, Truro, Cabris Bay.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to St Ives 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 St Ives, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially around popular beaches and markets. Beware of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed transportation to avoid overcharging. Additionally, be cautious when booking accommodations or tours through unofficial channels to prevent scams. Staying aware of surroundings and securing valuables 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 St Ives
Most Cardiff to St Ives trains use the Cardiff Central to St Ives station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and St Ives 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 St Ives
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.
Which St Ives station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to St Ives arrive at St Ives. St Ives is 0 miles (1 km) from St Ives city centre.
St IvesSt Ives station, Station Road, St Ives, Cornwall, TR26 2BP
City-centre transport
Getting to St Ives from St Ives city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesMalakoff bus stop, the Terrace
St Ives train station facilities and services
St Ives has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at St Ives.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at St Ives.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St Ives.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St Ives: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at St Ives: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St Ives: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free acccess to the platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to St Ives
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from St Ives and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to St Ives
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