- Must visit
National Railway Museum
Major railway museum with iconic locomotives, royal trains, and engineering exhibits. One of Britain's best family-friendly museums.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to York
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$78
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$147
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 59 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 25 m
Trains on Sep 20
5
Distance
310 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to York is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to York will cost around $147 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to York without transferring at least once.
G38964+
G160099:45 AM5h51Cardiff Central (CDF)3:36 PMYork station (YRK)$781One-way1 transfer- G38940+G159988:42 AM5h53Cardiff Central (CDF)2:35 PMYork station (YRK)$881One-way1 transfer
W35211+
W297769:21 AM5h11Cardiff Central (CDF)2:32 PMYork station (YRK)$1601One-way1 transfer- G01066+G395898:23 AM5h09Cardiff Central (CDF)1:32 PMYork station (YRK)$1601One-way1 transfer
- Y61968+G0107110:30 AM4h59Cardiff Central (CDF)3:29 PMYork station (YRK)$2491One-way1 transfer
- Y61968+G0107110:30 AM4h59Cardiff Central (CDF)3:29 PMYork station (YRK)$2491One-way1 transfer
- G01066+G395898:23 AM5h09Cardiff Central (CDF)1:32 PMYork station (YRK)$1601One-way1 transfer
- W35211+W297769:21 AM5h11Cardiff Central (CDF)2:32 PMYork station (YRK)$1601One-way1 transfer
- G38964+G160099:45 AM5h51Cardiff Central (CDF)3:36 PMYork station (YRK)$781One-way1 transfer
- G38940+G159988:42 AM5h53Cardiff Central (CDF)2:35 PMYork station (YRK)$881One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to York
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to York among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $49 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 3m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, while a train costs an average of $118.
Distance: 192 miles (310 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$118 Average price | $49 Average price Cheapest | $85 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 3m Average total duration Fastest 4h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 0m Average total duration 8h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to York is a bus with an average price of $49.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to York:
A bus is $69 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to York costing on average $118.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to York is by train with an average journey time of 4h 33m.
Other travel options to York take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and York including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to York 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 1m sooner (4h 33m by train vs 4h 34m by car). Tickets start at around $118 compared to roughly $85 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.
Direct services run with Cross Country.
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 York train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to York trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G01066+G39589 | 8:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h09 | 1:32 PM York station (YRK) | 1 transfer | |
| G38940+G15998 | 8:42 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h53 | 2:35 PM York station (YRK) | 1 transfer | |
| W29776+W35211 | 9:21 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h11 | 2:32 PM York station (YRK) | 1 transfer | |
| G38964+G16009 | 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h51 | 3:36 PM York station (YRK) | 1 transfer | |
| Y61968+G01071 | 10:30 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h59 | 3:29 PM York station (YRK) | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to York 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
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Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Cardiff to York trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to York.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to York.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to York.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to York.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to York.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to York.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to York
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to York run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 but you can travel from only $12 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:34, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 192 miles (310 km) distance in 3h 52m.
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 $12
Distance 192 miles (310 km) |
Average train duration 4h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 52m |
First train 2:34 AM |
Last train 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $12
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to York trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and York from $12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
3h 52m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$46
CrossCountry frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
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
4h 33m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$58
Transport for Wales frequency
2 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 York
Things to do in York
Discover the best of York — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect York trip today.
- Must visit
JORVIK Viking Centre
Immersive walk-through museum recreating Victorian streets, shops, and homes. Brilliant for understanding everyday life in historic York.
- Recommended
Yorkshire Museum
York's main city museum with archaeology, Roman finds, and local history. Set in beautiful gardens beside abbey ruins.
- Must visit
The Shambles
Narrow medieval street with overhanging timber-framed buildings and many independent shops. York's most famous and atmospheric lane.
- Must visit
Museum Gardens
Peaceful riverside gardens with abbey ruins, museum access, and lawns. Ideal for a scenic break amid York's historic core.
- Recommended
Exhibition Square
Grand civic street lined with historic buildings, gardens, and cultural sites. A key route for exploring the heart of York.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding is a baked batter pudding served with roast beef and gravy, iconic across Yorkshire and a staple of the traditional Sunday roast.
- Gluten-free
York Ham
York ham is a prized cured ham from the city, traditionally mild, tender, and often served thick-cut in sandwiches, salads, or classic British meals.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Parkin
Parkin is a sticky ginger cake made with oats and treacle, strongly linked to Yorkshire and especially eaten around Bonfire Night.
Roots York
Michelin-starred fine dining by Tommy Banks, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant city-centre setting.
Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms
Beloved tearoom serving York rarebit, afternoon tea, and the famous fat rascal in an old-fashioned, bustling setting.
The Star Inn The City
Long-established seafood restaurant known for very fresh fish, shellfish, and a smart but relaxed dining room in central York.
British pound (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller towns, but transit is limited and many sights are walkable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.30
To the city center
York Railway Station -> York Minster, York
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Tap on with contactless or buy tickets in the First Bus app on most York buses.
- York buses are the main local public transport; there is no tram or metro network in the city.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to York
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to York 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 York, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to York can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46, while the average price is around $118.
The train from Cardiff to York takes 3h 52m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to York leaves at 2:34 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to York is 192 miles (310 km).
The last train from Cardiff to York leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to York.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to York. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to York.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to York is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to York station (YRK).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to York is by bus, with a cost of around $12.
The train journey from Cardiff to York offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of the lush Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of charming English towns and historic sites along the route.
A day trip from Cardiff to York is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 52m. There are 8 trains per day covering a distance of 192 miles (310 km).
In York, you can explore the York Castle Museum to learn about the city's social history, walk the scenic York City Walls, and visit the York Art Gallery to see diverse art collections. A boat tour on the River Ouse offers a unique city perspective, while ghost tours delve into York's haunted past. Must-see sights include York Minster with its stunning architecture, The Shambles street, Clifford's Tower for panoramic views, Jorvik Viking Centre for Viking heritage, and the National Railway Museum with its historic trains.
For a fulfilling visit to York, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days. This allows time to explore key attractions like York Minster, the Shambles, and the city walls, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to York.
Since neither Cardiff nor York 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 York include Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Sheffield, Harrogate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to York 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 York, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Shambles and near major attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering overpriced or fake services. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and book tours through reputable companies to avoid these issues. Staying alert in busy spots and safeguarding personal belongings will help 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 York
Most Cardiff to York trains use the Cardiff Central to York station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and York 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 York
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 York station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to York arrive at York. York is 0 miles (1 km) from York city centre.
YorkYork station, Station Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO24 1AB+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to York from York city centre
BusY12, Y14, 15, X15 · 4m · $4 · every ~4 min
37 · 7m
Cs · 28m · $5 · every ~5 min
York train station facilities and services
York has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at York.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at York. ATMs are available at York.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at York.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at York: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at York: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at York: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: No advance booking is required but it will reduce the waiting time for a wheelchair access Taxi, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible machines are available on the main concourse, 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 York
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from York and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to York
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