- Must visit
Windermere Jetty Museum
Excellent local museum exploring Lake District life, Beatrix Potter, mountaineering, and arts in a modern setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Windermere
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$69
Average price
$110
Fastest journey
4 h 54 m
Average duration
5 h 21 m
Trains per day
2
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 $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Cardiff for Windermere on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 323 km distance in an average of 5 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 54 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 5 h 48 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.
5:46 AM4h54Cardiff10:40 AMWindermere$691One-way0 transfers
12:13 PM5h48Cardiff6:01 PMWindermere$1521One-way0 transfers
- 5:46 AM4h54Cardiff10:40 AMWindermere$691One-way0 transfers
- 12:13 PM5h48Cardiff6:01 PMWindermere$1521One-way0 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 | $88 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Windermere:
A bus is $26 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Windermere costing on average $125.
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 compared to roughly $88 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 tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:46 AM Cardiff | 4h54 | 10:40 AM 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
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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 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 |
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. 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
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
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
Complete guide to Windermere
Things to do in Windermere
Discover the best of Windermere — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Windermere trip today.
- Must visit
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
Small museum and gallery dedicated to Lakeland writer and illustrator Beatrix Potter, ideal for literary fans.
- Must visit
Blackwell The Arts & Crafts House
Lakeside Arts and Crafts house open as a heritage attraction, valued for design, collections, and exhibitions.
- Must visit
Lake Windermere
England's largest lake is the area's defining attraction, ideal for cruises, waterside walks, and mountain scenery.
- Must visit
Bowness Bay
Bustling lakeside area with ferry access, shops, and views; the main base for exploring Windermere by boat.
- Must visit
Orrest Head
Popular fell with a short climb from Windermere, rewarding visitors with broad lake and mountain panoramas.
Cumberland Sausage
A traditional Cumbrian sausage seasoned with pepper and spices. It is a long-standing regional favourite often served with mash or in a full breakfast.
- Vegetarian
Kendal Mint Cake
A dark, sticky fruit cake from Cumbria made with currants, spices and tea. It is a classic Lakeland treat often eaten with butter or local cheese.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Kendal Mint Cake
A sweet, sugary peppermint bar from nearby Kendal, famous as an energy snack for walkers and climbers in the Lake District.
The Old Stamp House
Well-regarded modern British restaurant with seasonal local produce, elegant plates and a central Bowness-on-Windermere location.
SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel
Refined British fine dining in the Gilpin Hotel, known for tasting menus, polished service and a luxurious Lake District setting.
Villa Positano
Popular casual spot serving wood-fired pizzas and hearty Italian dishes in a lively, family-friendly setting near the lake.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: lodging is often pricey in peak season, but pub meals and local buses are manageable versus larger tourist hotspots.
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
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafes usually just small change.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £7.50
To the city center
Windermere Railway Station -> Bowness Pier, Windermere
- Distance
- 2.4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in the Lake District; buy on board or in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Windermere station is linked to Bowness by frequent local buses; check live times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
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, while the average price is around $125.
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.
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
Most Cardiff to Windermere trains use the Cardiff Central to Windermere station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Windermere 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 Windermere
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.
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 Windermere station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Windermere arrive at Windermere. Windermere is from Windermere city centre.
WindermereWindermere station, Station Precinct, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1AH+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to Windermere from Windermere city centre
Bus597 · 1m · $11
Windermere train station facilities and services
Windermere has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Windermere.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Windermere.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Windermere: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Windermere: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Windermere: 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.
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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