- Must visit
Shakespeare's Schoolroom and Guildhall
Shakespeare's Schoolroom and Guildhall presents the room where Shakespeare likely studied, with live interpretation in an important civic building.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 3m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €15, and a train costs an average of €19.
Distance: 79 miles (128 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€50 Average price | €21 Average price Cheapest | €29 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 33m Average total duration Fastest 3h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 3m Average total duration 8h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon is a bus with an average price of €21.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon:
A bus is €29 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon costing on average €50.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon is by train with an average journey time of 3h 3m.
Other travel options to Stratford-upon-Avon take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Stratford-upon-Avon including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon 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 €50 compared to roughly €29 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-21.45. The journey takes 3h 3m versus 2h 5m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon 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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Why should you book Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
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 Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
- 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-upon-Avon.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €19 but you can travel from only €15 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 20:01. The fastest train covers the 79 miles (128 km) distance in 3h 23m.
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 €15
Distance 79 miles (128 km) |
Average train duration 3h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price €19 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 23m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 8:01 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €15
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Stratford-upon-Avon from €15. 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
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
€19
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
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
3h 58m
Cheapest Price
€101
Great Western Railway frequency
1 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 58m
Cross Country frequency
8 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 59m
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
8 a day
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 49m
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Stratford-upon-Avon
Things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon
Discover the best of Stratford-upon-Avon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stratford-upon-Avon trip today.
- Recommended
Tudor World
Tudor World is a small history museum inside a historic building, using themed rooms and stories to present everyday Tudor life in Stratford.
- Recommended
MAD Museum
MAD Museum is a hands-on venue of mechanical art and design, featuring kinetic sculptures that appeal to families and curious adults alike.
- Must visit
Bancroft Gardens
Bancroft Gardens is the riverside public garden by the theatres, popular for walks, boat views, and easy access to key Stratford landmarks.
- Must visit
Henley Street
Henley Street is the lively historic street of Shakespeare's Birthplace, lined with period buildings, shops, and constant visitor activity.
- Recommended
Waterside
Waterside is the scenic route along the Avon beside the RSC, ideal for strolling, photos, and linking the town centre with riverside sights.
Warwickshire Pie
A Warwickshire savoury pie of layered ham, potatoes and apples, often linked to Shakespeare's birthplace and regional farmhouse cooking.
- Vegetarian
Warwickshire Fruit Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit and spice, traditionally made in Warwickshire for celebrations and afternoon tea.
- Vegetarian
Shrewsbury Cakes
Small baked buns flavoured with caraway seeds, a historic Warwickshire tea-time treat with a distinctive aromatic taste.
Salt
Refined riverside restaurant with modern British tasting menus and polished service in a stylish fine dining setting.
Noel's Bar And Restaurant
Long-established town centre restaurant specialising in steaks and seafood with a smart, traditional dining room.
Lambs Restaurant
Historic restaurant in a 15th-century building, known for classic British dishes and a characterful timber-framed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: rooms and theatre days raise costs, but dining and local transport are manageable versus larger UK tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Stratford-upon-Avon Railway Station -> Bridge Street, Stratford-upon-Avon
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local buses are operated by Stagecoach. Contactless card payment is usually accepted on buses, but check before boarding.
- Stratford-upon-Avon town centre is walkable from the railway station in about 10 min, so you may not need a bus for short central trips.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon 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-upon-Avon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €19, while the average price is around €50.
The train from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon takes 3h 23m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon is 79 miles (128 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon leaves at 8:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Stratford-upon-Avon is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Stratford-upon-Avon station (SAV).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon is by bus, with a cost of around €15.
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon offers scenic views, including the picturesque landscapes of the Welsh countryside and the charming rural vistas of the Cotswolds, making it a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon is not feasible, as the journey duration is 3h 23m. However, there are 6 train trips available per day covering a distance of 79 miles (128 km).
In Stratford-upon-Avon, you can explore cultural and historical sites like Shakespeare's Birthplace, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the River Avon, visit the Stratford Butterfly Farm, and engage with interactive exhibits at the MAD Museum. Discover the town's history on a guided walking tour, and visit Hall's Croft and Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare was baptized and buried.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Stratford-upon-Avon's main attractions, including Shakespeare's Birthplace, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, while also enjoying the town's charming streets and riverside walks.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon.
Since neither Cardiff nor Stratford-upon-Avon 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-upon-Avon include Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry, Leamington Spa, Dorridge.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon 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-upon-Avon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unlicensed cabs have been reported, so it’s advisable to use reputable taxi services or pre-book transportation. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional distraction scams near busy spots but overall, Stratford-upon-Avon is considered a safe destination with standard precautions.
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-upon-Avon
Most Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon trains use the Cardiff Central to Stratford-upon-Avon station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Stratford-upon-Avon 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-upon-Avon
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.
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 · €4 · 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.
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 Stratford-upon-Avon station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon arrive at Stratford-upon-Avon. Stratford-upon-Avon is 0 miles (1 km) from Stratford-upon-Avon city centre.
Stratford-upon-AvonStratford-upon-Avon station, Station Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6PL+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Stratford-upon-Avon from Stratford-upon-Avon city centre
Bus6 · 2m · €2
Stratford-upon-Avon train station facilities and services
Stratford-upon-Avon has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stratford-upon-Avon.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stratford-upon-Avon. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stratford-upon-Avon: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stratford-upon-Avon: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stratford-upon-Avon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Red Line Taxis (Wheelchair Access) 017889 777365, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is located at the front of the station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Stratford-upon-Avon and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Stratford-upon-Avon
HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to Stratford-upon-AvonCardiff to Stratford-upon-Avon train
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