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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Windermere
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$130
Average price
$216
Fastest journey
4 h 56 m
Average duration
5 h 5 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
323 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Windermere is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Windermere will cost around $216 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $130.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Windermere without transferring at least 2 times.
10:43 AM6h09Cardiff4:52 PMWindermere$1301One-way1 transfer- 11:40 AM5h12Cardiff4:52 PMWindermere$2071One-way2 transfers
- 8:42 AM5h11Cardiff1:53 PMWindermere$2301One-way2 transfers
- 9:45 AM4h56Cardiff2:41 PMWindermere$2301One-way2 transfers
- 10:43 AM5h05Cardiff3:48 PMWindermere$2301One-way2 transfers
- 9:45 AM4h56Cardiff2:41 PMWindermere$2301One-way2 transfers
- 1:51 PM5h01Cardiff6:52 PMWindermere$2301One-way2 transfers
- 10:43 AM5h05Cardiff3:48 PMWindermere$2301One-way2 transfers
- 8:42 AM5h11Cardiff1:53 PMWindermere$2301One-way2 transfers
- 12:39 PM5h11Cardiff5:50 PMWindermere$2301One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Windermere
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Windermere among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $99. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $99, and a train costs an average of $69.
Distance: 200 miles (323 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$125 Average price | $99 Average price Cheapest | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 24m Average total duration Fastest 4h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 2m Average total duration 15h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Windermere is a bus with an average price of $99 (€81).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Windermere:
A bus is $26 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Windermere costing on average $125 (€102).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Windermere is by train with an average journey time of 4h 54m.
Other travel options to Windermere take longer:
Bus takes on average 15h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Windermere including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Windermere 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 35m sooner (4h 54m by train vs 5h 29m by car). Tickets start at around $125 (€102) compared to roughly $87 (€72) 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 Windermere train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Windermere trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 12:53 PM Cardiff | 5h08 | 6:01 PM Windermere | 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 Windermere 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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Jun 21
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Why should you book Cardiff to Windermere trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Windermere.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Windermere.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Windermere.
- 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 Windermere.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Windermere.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Windermere.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Windermere
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Windermere run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $69 (€56) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:19, the last at 19:01. The fastest train covers the 200 miles (323 km) distance in 4h 54m.
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 200 miles (323 km) |
Average train duration 4h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $69 (€56) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 54m |
First train 4:19 AM |
Last train 7:01 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 35 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
Train companies: Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail from Cardiff to Windermere trainsTransport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail trains will get you between Cardiff and Windermere from $69 (€56). 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 Duration
4h 54m
Cheapest Price
$69 (€56)
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
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 7m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€67)
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Northern Rail frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Windermere
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Windermere 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 Windermere, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Windermere can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $69 (€56), while the average price is around $125 (€102).
The train from Cardiff to Windermere takes 4h 54m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Windermere is 200 miles (323 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Windermere leaves at 4:19 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Windermere leaves at 7:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Windermere.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Windermere.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Windermere.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Windermere is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Windermere station (WDM).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Windermere is by train, with a cost of around $69 (€56).
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Windermere is scenic, offering views of the Welsh countryside, the rolling landscapes of the English borders, and the picturesque Lake District.
A day trip from Cardiff to Windermere is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 54m. There are 7 trains available per day.
In Windermere, visitors can explore Brockhole on Windermere for family-friendly activities, Wray Castle for a taste of mock-Gothic architecture, and the Windermere Jetty Museum for insights into the history of boats. The Claife Viewing Station offers stunning lake views, while Fell Foot Park is ideal for picnics. Notable sights include Lake Windermere, The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Orrest Head for panoramic views, Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House for its architecture, and the Holehird Gardens with its diverse plant collections.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Windermere is ideal to explore its stunning landscapes, enjoy lake activities, and visit local attractions like the Lake District National Park and surrounding villages.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Windermere.
Since neither Cardiff nor Windermere 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 Windermere include Manchester, Liverpool, Oxenholme, Preston, Bolton.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Windermere 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 Windermere, travelers should be aware of typical safety concerns such as occasional pickpocketing in crowded areas and always keep personal belongings secure. Scams are relatively rare but may include overpriced boat tours or unofficial taxi services, so booking through reputable providers is recommended. Staying alert and using licensed transportation 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 Windermere
Cardiff
Windermere
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Windermere.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
The major train station for arrivals in Windermere is Windermere. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Windermere for your journey to Windermere from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:40 - 20:45 Sunday 11:10 - 20:40
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Level access to platform
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible public telephones: On Station Forecourt
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Car park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Windermere
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Outside the station entrance
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Windermere
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Windermere and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Windermere
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