- Must visit
Shakespeare's Birthplace
Flagship Shakespeare museum in his birthplace, with exhibitions on his life, family, and legacy in a preserved Tudor setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Stratford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€66
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€83
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h 28 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 30 m
Trains on Sep 20
8
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 €83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €66.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Stratford without transferring at least once.
W35211+
C368509:21 AM2h30Cardiff Central (CDF)11:51 AMMaryland (MYL)€661One-way1 transfer- W35211+C368509:21 AM2h28Cardiff Central (CDF)11:49 AMStratford (London) (SRA)€661One-way1 transfer
- C33109+C3681011:18 AM2h33Cardiff Central (CDF)1:51 PMMaryland (MYL)€661One-way1 transfer
- C33109+C3681011:18 AM2h31Cardiff Central (CDF)1:49 PMStratford (London) (SRA)€661One-way1 transfer
- C00123+C3686410:20 AM2h31Cardiff Central (CDF)12:51 PMMaryland (MYL)€661One-way1 transfer
- W35211+C368509:21 AM2h28Cardiff Central (CDF)11:49 AMStratford (London) (SRA)€661One-way1 transfer
- C00123+C3686410:20 AM2h29Cardiff Central (CDF)12:49 PMStratford (London) (SRA)€661One-way1 transfer
- W35211+C368509:21 AM2h30Cardiff Central (CDF)11:51 AMMaryland (MYL)€661One-way1 transfer
- C33109+C3681011:18 AM2h31Cardiff Central (CDF)1:49 PMStratford (London) (SRA)€661One-way1 transfer
- C00123+C3686410:20 AM2h31Cardiff Central (CDF)12:51 PMMaryland (MYL)€661One-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 an average ticket price of €22 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 47m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €22, while a train costs an average of €60.
Distance: 136 miles (220 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€60 Average price | €22 Average price Cheapest | €47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 47m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 17m Average total duration 4h 47m 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 €22.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Stratford:
A bus is €38 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Stratford costing on average €60.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Stratford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 17m.
Other travel options to Stratford take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 47m.
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 bus 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 18m sooner (2h 17m by train vs 3h 35m by car). Tickets start at around €60 compared to roughly €47 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 tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W35211+C36850 | 9:21 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h28 | 11:49 AM Stratford (London) (SRA) | 1 transfer | |
| W35211+C36850 | 9:21 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h30 | 11:51 AM Maryland (MYL) | 1 transfer | |
| C00123+C36864 | 10:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h31 | 12:51 PM Maryland (MYL) | 1 transfer | |
| C00123+C36864 | 10:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h29 | 12:49 PM Stratford (London) (SRA) | 1 transfer | |
| C33109+C36810 | 11:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h31 | 1:49 PM Stratford (London) (SRA) | 1 transfer | |
| C33109+C36810 | 11:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h33 | 1:51 PM Maryland (MYL) | 1 transfer | |
W35438+ G00898+C36822 | 11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h06 | 2:51 PM Maryland (MYL) | 2 transfers | |
| W35438+C36822+G00898 | On time 11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h04 | 2:49 PM Stratford (London) (SRA) | 2 transfers | |
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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
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Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
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Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Cardiff to Stratford trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all 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?
- 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 12 times per day, taking around 2h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €43 but you can travel from only €22 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 11m.
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 €22
Distance 136 miles (220 km) |
Average train duration 2h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price €43 |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 2h 11m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 10:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 91 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 €22
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Stratford trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Stratford from €22. 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 Great Western Railway Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€43
Great Western Railway frequency
12 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
Complete guide to Stratford
Things to do in Stratford
Discover the best of Stratford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stratford trip today.
- Must visit
Anne Hathaway's Cottage
Restored family home where Shakespeare's wife grew up; combines domestic history, collection displays, and attractive grounds.
- Recommended
Hall's Croft
Museum house exploring Shakespeare's daughter and son-in-law, with fine rooms, medical history, and landscaped gardens.
- Must visit
Henley Street
Historic timber-framed main street filled with character, shops, and classic town views; ideal for first-time walking and photos.
- Must visit
Bancroft Gardens
Pleasant riverside parkland with lawns, paths, and swan-filled views; excellent for relaxing walks near the theatre district.
- Recommended
High Street
Broad pedestrian-friendly route with heritage buildings, independent shops, and direct links to key Shakespeare attractions.
Fish And Chips
A classic British meal of battered fish and chips, widely eaten in Stratford and across England, often served with mushy peas and malt vinegar.
Steak And Ale Pie
A slow-cooked beef pie with ale gravy under pastry. It reflects the hearty pub cooking common in Warwickshire and the wider Midlands.
Pigs In Blankets
Pork sausage wrapped in bacon, usually served with roast dinners. It is a beloved traditional side on Sunday lunches in local pubs.
Salt
Fine dining restaurant by Chef Paul Foster, known for seasonal British tasting menus in an intimate modern setting.
Lambs Of Sheep Street
Historic riverside restaurant serving classic British dishes and afternoon tea in an elegant timber-framed building.
Loxleys Restaurant And Wine Bar
Well-known local restaurant focused on steak, seafood, and grills with a polished but relaxed atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and theatre can raise costs, but dining and local transport are usually manageable versus London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes: small change or no tip is fine.
TfL Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £1.75
- Day pass
- £8.90
To the city center
Stratford Station -> Oxford Circus, London
- Distance
- 10 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless and Oyster are accepted on Tube, DLR, Elizabeth line and London buses. Adult bus and tram pay-as-you-go fares are £1.75.
- For the cheapest fares, use the same contactless card or device all day so daily capping applies automatically.
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 €43, while the average price is around €60.
The train from Cardiff to Stratford takes 2h 11m and runs 12 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 €22.
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 11m. 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 bus 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
Most Cardiff to Stratford trains use the Cardiff Central to Stratford (London) station pair, with some services arriving at Maryland. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Stratford 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 Stratford
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 Stratford station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Stratford most often arrive at Stratford (London). Some services arrive at Maryland, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Stratford arrival station.
Stratford (London)Stratford station, Station Street, Stratford, Greater London, E15 1AZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Stratford (London) from Stratford city centre
TrainDlr · 2m · €2 · every ~27 min
Bus108 · 6m · €4 · every ~24 min
SubwayJubilee · 3m · €1 · every ~63 min
Stratford (London) train station facilities and services
Stratford (London) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stratford (London).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Stratford (London). ATMs are available at Stratford (London).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stratford (London). Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stratford (London): Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stratford (London): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stratford (London): 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.
MarylandMaryland station, Leytonstone Road, Maryland Point, Greater London, E15 1SA
City-centre transport
Getting to Maryland from Stratford city centre
BusN8 · 6m · €4 · every ~4 min
N8 · 7m · €4 · every ~4 min
69 · 15m · €10 · every ~29 min
Maryland train station facilities and services
Maryland has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Maryland.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Maryland.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Maryland. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Maryland: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Maryland: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Maryland: 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.
Stratford InternationalStratford International station, International Way, Stratford, Greater London, E20 1YY
City-centre transport
Getting to Stratford International from Stratford city centre
TrainDlr · 5m · €2 · every ~27 min
Bus108 · 8m · €4 · every ~24 min
Stratford International train station facilities and services
Stratford International has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stratford International.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stratford International.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stratford International. Information desks are 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.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stratford International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stratford International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stratford International: 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.
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
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