- Must visit
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter
Major film attraction at Warner Bros. Studios with sets, props, and behind-the-scenes exhibits from the Harry Potter films.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Watford
Showing times and prices for Jul 30
Cheapest price
$55
Average price
$59
Fastest journey
3 h 8 m
Average duration
3 h 9 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
193 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Watford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Watford will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Cardiff for Watford on Thu, Jul 30, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 30 the direct trains cover the 193 km distance in an average of 3 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 8 m .
On Thu, Jul 30 the slowest trains will take 3 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
10:50 AM3h08Cardiff1:58 PMWatford$551One-way0 transfers- 9:49 AM3h10Cardiff12:59 PMWatford$631One-way0 transfers
- 10:50 AM3h08Cardiff1:58 PMWatford$551One-way0 transfers
- 9:49 AM3h10Cardiff12:59 PMWatford$631One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Watford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Watford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $30, and a train costs an average of $30.
Distance: 119 miles (193 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$58 Average price Cheapest | $43 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 17m Average total duration Fastest 2h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Watford is a train with an average price of $58 (€58).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Watford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 47m.
Other travel options to Watford take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Watford including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Watford 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 3m sooner (2h 47m by train vs 2h 50m by car). Tickets start at around $58 (€58) compared to roughly $43 (€43) 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 Watford train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Watford trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:49 AM Cardiff | 3h10 | 12:59 PM Watford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:50 AM Cardiff | 3h08 | 1:58 PM Watford | 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 Watford by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
Thu
Jul 30
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Why should you book Cardiff to Watford trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Watford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Watford.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Watford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Watford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Watford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Watford run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€30) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:14, the last at 21:38. The fastest train covers the 119 miles (193 km) distance in 2h 59m.
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 119 miles (193 km) |
Average train duration 2h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€30) |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 2h 59m |
First train 4:14 AM |
Last train 9:38 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Watford trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Watford from $30 (€30). 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 59m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€30)
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 Watford
Things to do in Watford
Discover the best of Watford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Watford trip today.
- Recommended
Watford Museum
Compact local museum covering Watford's people, industry, art, and football heritage in a historic former brewery setting.
- Recommended
Little Cassiobury House
Elegant Jacobean house with period rooms, exhibitions, and gardens, offering a strong sense of Hertfordshire country-house history.
- Must visit
Cassiobury Park
Watford's flagship park with broad lawns, woodland, canal-side walks, playgrounds, and sports facilities. A top everyday local favorite.
- Recommended
The Parade
Pedestrianized retail heart of central Watford, useful for shopping, people-watching, and feeling the town's busy modern atmosphere.
- Recommended
High Street
Historic high street with independent shops, old buildings, pubs, and the parish church, preserving much of Watford's older character.
Steak And Ale Pie
A hearty pub pie of beef and ale under pastry. Common in Hertfordshire pubs and a staple comfort dish locals still order regularly.
Bangers And Mash
Sausages served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy. A classic everyday British pub meal widely eaten in Watford and across England.
Fish And Chips
Beer-battered fish with chips, usually cod or haddock. A long-standing British takeaway and pub favourite popular with Watford locals.
The Grove
Well-regarded modern British pub and dining room in a historic setting, known for seasonal menus, Sunday roasts and a polished atmosphere.
The Florist Watford
Popular contemporary restaurant for steaks, grills and cocktails with stylish interiors and a strong reputation for polished service.
ASK Italian Watford
Reliable casual chain known for fresh pasta, pizza and Italian comfort food in a lively, family-friendly setting near the town centre.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for UK trips: hotels and rail can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add 10-12.5% service; if not, round up or tip 10%. Taxis: round up. Cafes and pubs: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.
TfL Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £1.75
- Day pass
- £14.90
To the city center
Watford Junction -> Watford High Street, Watford
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless and Oyster are accepted on London Overground and Tube services in Watford. Bus fares in London are charged by touch-in only.
- For local buses around Watford, check Intalink fares before travel because prices vary by operator and route. Contactless payment is commonly accepted on buses.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Watford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Watford 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 Watford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Watford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€30), while the average price is around $58 (€58).
The train from Cardiff to Watford takes 2h 59m and runs 15 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Watford leaves at 4:14 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Watford is 119 miles (193 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Watford leaves at 9:38 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Watford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Watford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Watford.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Watford is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Watford Junction (WFJ).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Watford is by train, with a cost of around $30 (€30).
The train journey from Cardiff to Watford offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with notable scenic portions as it passes through the lush landscapes and rolling hills of South Wales and the English countryside.
A day trip from Cardiff to Watford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 59m. There are 12 trains per day covering the 119 miles (193 km) route.
In Watford, you can enjoy performances at the historic Watford Palace Theatre and community events at the Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre. For shopping and entertainment, visit Intu Watford. Experience fun golfing at Topgolf Watford or explore nature at Rickmansworth Aquadrome. Discover local history at Watford Museum and the enchanting world of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Relax at Cassiobury Park, stroll through the gardens at Cheslyn House, or indulge at the luxurious Grove hotel and estate.
To explore Watford's main attractions, including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and Cassiobury Park, a stay of 1 to 2 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Watford.
Since neither Cardiff nor Watford 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 Watford include London, Kings Langley, Birmingham, Hemel Hempstead, Coventry.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Watford 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 Watford, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the town center and around public transport hubs. Common scams include bogus ticket sellers and unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to book transportation through trusted providers. Staying alert in busy spots and using official channels for tickets and rides 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 Watford
Most Cardiff to Watford trains use the Cardiff Central to Watford Junction station pair, with some services arriving at Watford High Street. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Watford 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 Watford
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 Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
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.
Which Watford station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Watford most often arrive at Watford Junction. Some services arrive at Watford High Street, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Watford arrival station.
Watford JunctionWatford Junction station, Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford Junction from Watford city centre
TrainLondon Euston - Watford Junction, Kilburn High Road - Watford Junction, Willesden Junction Low Level - Watford Junction · 5m · $1 · every ~9 min
BusW20 · 5m · $2 · every ~1 min
635 · 7m · $4 · every ~2 min
322 · 20m · $2 · every ~6 min
Watford Junction train station facilities and services
Watford Junction 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, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford Junction.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Watford Junction.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford Junction. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford Junction: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford Junction: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford Junction: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible on platform 6, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Watford High StreetWatford High Street station, 182 Watford High Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2NW+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford High Street from Watford city centre
Bus321 · 3m · $4 · every ~10 min
306 · 6m · every ~4 min
Watford High Street train station facilities and services
Watford High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford High Street.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Watford High Street. ATMs are available at Watford High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford High Street: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford High Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford High Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only, Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
BusheyBushey station, Pinner Road, Watford, Greater London, WD19 4EA+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Bushey from Watford city centre
Bushey is 1 km from Watford city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainWatford Junction - London Euston, Watford Junction - Willesden Junction Low Level, Watford Junction - Kilburn High Road · 2m · $1 · every ~9 min
Bus306, 832 · 9m · $4 · every ~4 min
602 · 11m · $2 · every ~5 min
885 · 14m
Bushey train station facilities and services
Bushey has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bushey.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bushey.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bushey. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bushey: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bushey: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bushey: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Watford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Watford and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Watford
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