- Recommended
Museum of Wigan Life
Wigan's main museum explores local history, archaeology, and Roman finds in a compact, central collection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Wigan
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$157
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$157
Fastest journey on Sep 19
3 h 42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
3 h 43 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
233 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Wigan is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Wigan will cost around $157 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $157.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Wigan without transferring at least once.
G38979+
C0137310:53 AM3h44Cardiff Central (CDF)2:37 PMWigan North Western (WGN)$1571One-way1 transfer- G38971+C013718:54 AM3h42Cardiff Central (CDF)12:36 PMWigan North Western (WGN)$1571One-way1 transfer
- G38971+C013718:54 AM3h42Cardiff Central (CDF)12:36 PMWigan North Western (WGN)$1571One-way1 transfer
- G38979+C0137310:53 AM3h44Cardiff Central (CDF)2:37 PMWigan North Western (WGN)$1571One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Wigan
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Wigan among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $38 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 33m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, while a train costs an average of $82.
Distance: 144 miles (233 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$82 Average price | $38 Average price Cheapest | $64 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 33m Average total duration Fastest 3h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 43m Average total duration 6h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 40m 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 Wigan is a bus with an average price of $38.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Wigan:
A bus is $45 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Wigan costing on average $82.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Wigan is by train with an average journey time of 3h 3m.
Other travel options to Wigan take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Wigan including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Wigan 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 37m sooner (3h 3m by train vs 3h 40m by car). Tickets start at around $82 compared to roughly $64 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 Wigan train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Wigan trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G38971+C01371 | 8:54 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h42 | 12:36 PM Wigan North Western (WGN) | 1 transfer | |
| G38979+C01373 | 10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h44 | 2:37 PM Wigan North Western (WGN) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Wigan 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
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Sep 23
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Cardiff to Wigan trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales operates all trains services from Cardiff to Wigan.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Wigan.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Wigan.
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 Wigan.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Wigan
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Wigan run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $77 but you can travel from only $35 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:33, the last at 21:12. The fastest train covers the 144 miles (233 km) distance in 3h 2m.
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 $35
Distance 144 miles (233 km) |
Average train duration 3h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 2m |
First train 4:33 AM |
Last train 9:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 7 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 $35
Train companies: Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Wigan trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Wigan from $35. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
3h 2m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$77
Transport for Wales frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Wigan
Things to do in Wigan
Discover the best of Wigan — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Wigan trip today.
- Recommended
Astley Green Colliery Museum
Working heritage site with a recreated pithead and exhibitions on Lancashire coal mining and community life.
- Recommended
Astley Hall
Historic hall with furnished interiors and displays on local gentry, architecture, and estate life in the borough.
- Must visit
Wigan Pier
Historic canal junction with locks, warehouses, and waterside walks; one of Wigan's signature industrial heritage areas.
- Must visit
Haigh Woodland Park
Large country park with woodlands, plantations, and trails, ideal for walking, cycling, and seasonal colour.
- Recommended
Pennington Flash Country Park
Extensive reservoir and nature area popular for birdwatching, long walks, and peaceful open views.
Wigan Kebab
A classic Wigan speciality: a meat-and-potato pie served in a buttered bread roll. It is a proud local nickname and a staple of working-class food culture.
Meat And Potato Pie
A savoury pie filled with minced beef and potato, long associated with Lancashire mill towns and especially popular in Wigan bakeries and chip shops.
Steak Pie
Slow-cooked beef with onions and gravy under a pastry lid. This hearty northern pie is a traditional comfort food across Wigan and wider Lancashire.
Alchemy Restaurant
Well-regarded modern British restaurant known for polished cooking, tasting menus and a smart but relaxed setting in the Standish area of Wigan borough.
Gallimore's Fine Restaurant
Stylish independent cafe and restaurant in central Wigan, known for brunch, coffee and casual modern plates in a lively town-centre setting.
The Balcarres Arms
Established pub and dining room at Haigh with classic British dishes, Sunday roasts and a traditional atmosphere popular with locals and park visitors.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels, pub meals, and local transport are usually cheaper than in London or Manchester city centre.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
Wigan North Western -> Wigan Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Bee Network buses in Greater Manchester, including Wigan routes.
- Wigan also has rail services, but local bus fares and tickets are managed through the Bee Network and TfGM.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Wigan
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Wigan 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 Wigan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Wigan can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $77, while the average price is around $82.
The train from Cardiff to Wigan takes 3h 2m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Wigan is 144 miles (233 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Wigan leaves at 4:33 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Wigan leaves at 9:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Wigan.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Wigan.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Wigan.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Wigan is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Wigan North Western (WGN).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Wigan is by bus, with a cost of around $35.
The train journey from Cardiff to Wigan offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with stretches of picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and views of the River Severn, especially in the initial part of the journey.
A day trip from Cardiff to Wigan is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 2m. Trains run 4 times per day.
To explore Wigan's main attractions, such as the Wigan Pier, Haigh Woodland Park, and the Museum of Wigan Life, a 2-3 day visit is usually sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Wigan.
Since neither Cardiff nor Wigan 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 Wigan include Manchester, Liverpool, Bolton, Preston, Blackpool.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Wigan 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 Wigan, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in busy areas like markets and public transport hubs. It's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded places and avoid displaying valuables openly. Additionally, travelers should be aware of potential taxi scams; always use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services. Scams involving fake accommodation listings are less common but still worth noting—booking through trusted platforms helps 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 Wigan
Most Cardiff to Wigan trains use the Cardiff Central to Wigan North Western station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Wigan 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 Wigan
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 Wigan station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Wigan arrive at Wigan North Western. Wigan North Western is 1 miles (2 km) from Wigan city centre.
Wigan North WesternWigan North Western station, Wallgate, Wigan, Lancashire, WN1 1BJ
City-centre transport
Getting to Wigan North Western from Wigan city centre
Wigan North Western is 1 km from Wigan city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus639, 640, 611, 602, 610, 603, 601, 604, 633 · 2m · $2 · every ~58 min
Wigan North Western train station facilities and services
Wigan North Western has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Wigan North Western.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Wigan North Western.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Wigan North Western. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Wigan North Western: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Wigan North Western: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wigan North Western: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Wigan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Wigan and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Wigan
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