.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Stratford
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$181
Average price
$181
Fastest journey
2 h 13 m
Average duration
2 h 14 m
Trains per day
30
Distance
220 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Stratford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Stratford will cost around $181 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $181.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Stratford without transferring at least once.
.png)
5:07 AM2h36Cardiff7:43 AMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer- 5:54 AM2h16Cardiff8:10 AMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
- 6:24 AM2h16Cardiff8:40 AMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
- 6:51 AM2h24Cardiff9:15 AMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
- 7:23 AM2h14Cardiff9:37 AMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
- 2:54 PM2h13Cardiff5:07 PMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
- 3:54 PM2h13Cardiff6:07 PMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
- 7:23 AM2h14Cardiff9:37 AMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
- 10:19 AM2h15Cardiff12:34 PMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
- 5:54 AM2h16Cardiff8:10 AMStratford$1811One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Stratford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Stratford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $69.
Distance: 136 miles (220 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$77 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $56 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 49m Average total duration Fastest 2h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 9m Average total duration 3h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 35m 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 Stratford is a bus with an average price of $12 (€10).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Stratford:
A bus is $65 (€53) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Stratford costing on average $77 (€63).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Stratford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 19m.
Other travel options to Stratford take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 39m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Stratford including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Stratford 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 16m sooner (2h 19m by train vs 3h 35m by car). Tickets start at around $77 (€63) compared to roughly $56 (€46) 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 Stratford train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Stratford trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:35 AM Cardiff | 3h39 | 1:14 PM Stratford | 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 Stratford 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.
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Why should you book Cardiff to Stratford trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff to Stratford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Stratford.
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 Stratford.
- 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 Stratford.
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 Stratford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Stratford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Stratford run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $69 (€56) but you can travel from only $7 (€6) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 22:08. The fastest train covers the 136 miles (220 km) distance in 2h 35m.
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 $7 (€6)
Distance 136 miles (220 km) |
Average train duration 2h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $69 (€56) |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 2h 35m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 10:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $7 (€6)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff to Stratford trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff and Stratford from $7 (€6). 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
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$69 (€56)
Great Western Railway frequency
10 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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 13m
Cheapest Price
$181 (€148)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
16 a day
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Stratford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Stratford 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 Stratford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Stratford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $69 (€56), while the average price is around $77 (€63).
The train from Cardiff to Stratford takes 2h 35m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Stratford leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Stratford is 136 miles (220 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Stratford leaves at 10:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Stratford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Stratford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Stratford.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Stratford is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Stratford (London) (SRA).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Stratford is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€6).
The Cardiff to Stratford train journey offers views of the picturesque Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, providing a scenic experience, particularly in sections that traverse rural landscapes.
A day trip from Cardiff to Stratford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 35m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day. The distance between the two locations is 136 miles (220 km).
You typically need 1 to 2 days in Stratford to explore its key attractions such as the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust sites, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and enjoy the local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Stratford.
Since neither Cardiff nor Stratford 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 Stratford include Chelmsford, Billericay, Wickford, Ipswich, Colchester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Stratford 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 Stratford, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as near the Stratford International station and during events at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Common scams include overcharging by some taxi drivers and unofficial ticket sellers offering inflated prices for local transportation or theatre tickets. It is advisable to use authorized services and stay vigilant in busy spots to ensure safety.
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 Stratford
Cardiff
Stratford
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Stratford.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
The major train station for arrivals in Stratford is Stratford (London). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Stratford (London) for your journey to Stratford from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:15 - 21:30 Saturday 06:15 - 21:30 Sunday 06:40 - 21:30 Southern ticket office 09:00-16:00 Mon-Fri 08:00-16:00 Sun
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Newsagent
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Accessibility Category A. This station has step-free access to all platforms
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Staff are available to assist from the first to last train
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: Accessible toilets are available
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Note that these are Council-owned cycle racks, located outside the front of the station
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
Public transit options for Stratford (London)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement bus services for Greater Anglia, London Overground, and TfL Rail will depart from: Montfichet Road, Bus Stop W, for Eastbound services - map here
- Metro: London Underground Central Line and Jubilee Lines and Docklands Light Railway.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:10 - 13:15 Saturday 06:40 - 13:45 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Accessibility Category A. This station has step-free access to all platforms Staff ramp assistance is always available. Accessible seating is available on platforms 1&2
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: An accessible ticket machine is located within the stations ticket hall
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Staff are available to assist from the first to last train
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: An accessible toilet is located in the ticket hall on the paid side of the ticket barrier. This toilet is operated with a radar key
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: An accessible toilet is located in the ticket hall on the paid side of the ticket barrier. This toilet is operated with a radar key
- Baby changing facilities: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Maryland
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement bus services cannot operate from this station. Stratford (London) station is 10 minute signposted walk. Click here for map of walking route
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:15 - 22:00 Saturday 06:15 - 22:00 Sunday 09:30 - 17:30 Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: WH Smiths
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step free access to all platforms via lifts.Pedestrian access to the international station from the regional station either via Westfield shopping centre or the roadway to the second entrance
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: booking hall
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Booking Hall
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Booking Hall
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: on platform
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within car park and alongside station entrance
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Textphone 0800 783 4548
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Stratford International
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station Forecourt
- Metro: Docklands Light Railway is available at the station for onward connection to London Underground and DLR stations.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Stratford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Stratford and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Stratford
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
