Cardiff to Stafford train with CrossCountry

Mon, Jun 22
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Stafford

Showing times and prices for Jun 22

Cheapest price

$122

Average price

$176

Fastest journey

2 h 46 m

Average duration

2 h 46 m

Trains per day

29

Distance

164 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Stafford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Stafford will cost around $176 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $122.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Stafford without transferring at least once.

  • Transport for Wales
    5:19 AM3h12
    Cardiff
    8:31 AMStafford
    $1221One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for Wales
    4:33 AM3h17
    Cardiff
    7:50 AMStafford
    $1611One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for Wales
    5:49 AM3h01
    Cardiff
    8:50 AMStafford
    $1611One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for Wales
    6:46 AM3h03
    Cardiff
    9:49 AMStafford
    $1611One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for Wales
    7:53 AM2h57
    Cardiff
    10:50 AMStafford
    $1611One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train for Cardiff to Stafford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Stafford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $122. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $122, and a train costs an average of $122.

Distance: 101 miles (164 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$174

Average price

Cheapest

$48

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 2m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 34m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Stafford is a train with an average price of $174 (€142).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Stafford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 32m.
Yes, you can take a train between Cardiff and Stafford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Stafford 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 1h 2m sooner (2h 32m by train vs 3h 34m by car). Tickets start at around $174 (€142) compared to roughly $48 (€39) 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.

Live departures

Cardiff to Stafford train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Stafford trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for Wales8:23 AM Cardiff
3h08
11:31 AM Stafford2 transfers
Transport for Wales8:42 AM Cardiff
3h26
12:08 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales9:45 AM Cardiff
3h04
12:49 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales10:43 AM Cardiff
3h07
1:50 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales11:40 AM Cardiff
3h10
2:50 PM Stafford1 transfer
Cross Country11:45 AM Cardiff
2h46
2:31 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales12:39 PM Cardiff
3h11
3:50 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales1:30 PM Cardiff
3h31
5:01 PM Stafford2 transfers
Cross Country1:45 PM Cardiff
2h46
4:31 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales1:51 PM Cardiff
2h59
4:50 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales2:55 PM Cardiff
2h55
5:50 PM Stafford1 transfer
Cross Country3:45 PM Cardiff
2h46
6:31 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales3:55 PM Cardiff
2h55
6:50 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales4:41 PM Cardiff
3h09
7:50 PM Stafford1 transfer
Cross Country5:45 PM Cardiff
2h46
8:31 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales5:55 PM Cardiff
3h35
9:30 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales6:42 PM Cardiff
3h30
10:12 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales7:39 PM Cardiff
9h49
5:28 AM Stafford2 transfers
Cross Country7:45 PM Cardiff
2h46
10:31 PM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales9:11 PM Cardiff
8h19
5:30 AM Stafford1 transfer
Transport for Wales10:35 PM Cardiff
10h26
9:01 AM Stafford2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Stafford 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.

Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28

Why should you book Cardiff to Stafford trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Cross Country or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Stafford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Stafford.

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 Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Stafford.
  • 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 Stafford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Stafford run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $122 (€100) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 05:54, the last at 21:21. The fastest train covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 2h 46m.

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
101 miles (164 km)
Average train duration
2h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$122 (€100)
Trains per day
11
Fastest train
2h 46m
First train
5:54 AM
Last train
9:21 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 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: CrossCountry, Cross Country, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Stafford trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Stafford from $122 (€100). 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 Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 46m
Cheapest Price
$199 (€163)
Cross Country frequency
8 a day

Transport for Wales

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
$122 (€100)
Transport for Wales frequency
16 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Stafford

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Stafford 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 Stafford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Stafford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $122 (€100), while the average price is around $174 (€142).
The train from Cardiff to Stafford takes 2h 46m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Stafford leaves at 5:54 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Stafford is 101 miles (164 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Stafford leaves at 9:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Stafford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Stafford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Stafford.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Stafford is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Stafford station (STA).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Stafford is by train, with a cost of around $122 (€100).
The train journey from Cardiff to Stafford offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque Welsh countryside, including views of rolling hills and charming villages, before transitioning into the more industrial landscapes as you approach Stafford.
A day trip from Cardiff to Stafford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 46m. However, there are 8 trains per day.
In Stafford, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Catch a performance at the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre or explore the scenic walking trails along the River Sow. The Stafford Farmers' Market is perfect for sampling local produce and crafts. Golf enthusiasts can play at Stafford Castle Golf Club. Art lovers should visit the Shire Hall Gallery. For historical sights, explore the Norman-era Stafford Castle or the grand Shugborough Estate, which includes the Staffordshire County Museum. The Ancient High House and Victoria Park offer cultural and leisure experiences respectively.
To fully explore Stafford's historical sites, parks, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Stafford.
Since neither Cardiff nor Stafford 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 Stafford include Wolverhampton, London, Stoke-on-Trent, Penkridge, Birmingham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Stafford 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 Stafford, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and only use reputable transportation services to prevent scams. Staying alert in less populated areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings enhances safety during visits.
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 Stafford

Most Cardiff to Stafford trains use the Cardiff Central to Stafford station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Stafford 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 Stafford
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre

Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services

Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, 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 Cardiff Queen Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, 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 Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, 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.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Stafford

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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