Cardiff to York train with Transport for Wales

Mon, Jun 22
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Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to York

Showing times and prices for Jun 22

Cheapest price

$87

Average price

$179

Fastest journey

4 h 31 m

Average duration

4 h 34 m

Trains per day

16

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 $179 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to York without transferring at least once.

  • Transport for WalesG38945+Transpennine ExpressG16307
    6:46 AM6h21
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:07 PMYork station (YRK)
    $871One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38967+Transpennine ExpressP00053
    8:55 AM6h12
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    3:07 PMYork station (YRK)
    $871One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG39035+Northern RailG89133+Transpennine ExpressC24924
    1:23 PM5h52
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    7:15 PMYork station (YRK)
    $971One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38955+Northern RailG89241 · G89007
    1:53 PM6h04
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    7:57 PMYork station (YRK)
    $971One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38967+Northern RailG89219 · G88981
    8:55 AM6h02
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:57 PMYork station (YRK)
    $971One-way
    2 transfers

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 prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a train costs an average of $43.

Distance: 192 miles (310 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$81

Average price

$42

Average price

Cheapest

$84

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 54m

Average total duration

7h 24m

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

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

National Express

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 $42 (€34).

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to York:

A bus is $39 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to York costing on average $81 (€66).

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 7h 24m.

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. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 1m faster (4h 33m by train vs 4h 34m by car) and roughly $3 (€3) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($81 (€66) vs $84 (€69)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.

Driving is still worth considering if you 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, Monday, June 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG38945+Transpennine ExpressG163076:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h21
1:07 PM York station (YRK)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38945+Northern RailG89210 · G889716:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h13
12:59 PM York station (YRK)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW35166+CrossCountryG010606:51 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h41
11:32 AM York station (YRK)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00938 · G007397:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h35
12:20 PM York station (YRK)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35169+CrossCountryG01062 · G007397:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h31
12:20 PM York station (YRK)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW35169+CrossCountryG010627:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h42
12:31 PM York station (YRK)1 transfer
CrossCountryG66712 · G006988:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h35
1:20 PM York station (YRK)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38967+Transpennine ExpressP000538:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h12
3:07 PM York station (YRK)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38967+Northern RailG89219 · G889818:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h02
2:57 PM York station (YRK)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG39027+Northern RailG89122+Transpennine ExpressG159559:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h50
3:13 PM York station (YRK)2 transfers
CrossCountryG01067 · G007019:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h35
2:20 PM York station (YRK)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39035+Northern RailG89133+Transpennine ExpressC249241:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h52
7:15 PM York station (YRK)2 transfers
CrossCountryG00905 · G007161:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h38
6:23 PM York station (YRK)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35187+CrossCountryG01080 · G007161:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h33
6:23 PM York station (YRK)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW35187+CrossCountryG010801:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h42
6:32 PM York station (YRK)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38955+Northern RailG89241 · G890071:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h04
7:57 PM York station (YRK)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

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.

Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28

Why should you book Cardiff to York trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, 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 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 CrossCountry, 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 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 York.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, 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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to York run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 02:34, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 192 miles (310 km) distance in 4h 35m.

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 (€10)
Distance
192 miles (310 km)
Average train duration
4h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$43 (€35)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
4h 35m
First train
2:34 AM
Last train
9:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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 $12 (€10)

Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country from Cardiff to York trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and York from $12 (€10). 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
5h 18m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€48)
Transport for Wales frequency
3 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

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 Duration
4h 35m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
CrossCountry frequency
5 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 25m
Cheapest Price
$342 (€280)
Cross Country frequency
6 a day

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

York Castle Museum

Social history museum in the former prison complex, famous for recreated Victorian streets and everyday life displays.

  • Must visit

JORVIK Viking Centre

Immersive archaeology attraction built around Viking-age remains, one of York’s signature experiences.

  • Must visit

National Railway Museum

National collection of historic locomotives and railway engineering, widely regarded as one of York’s top free attractions.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Pub meals and attractions are manageable, but hotels and weekend dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafés, pubs, and for hotel staff.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to York can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43 (€35), while the average price is around $81 (€66).
The train from Cardiff to York takes 4h 35m and runs 8 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 0 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, 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 (€10).
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 4h 35m. 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 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
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.

Ninian ParkNinian Park station, Leckwith Road, Ninian Park, Cardiff, CF11 8AHParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Ninian Park from Cardiff city centre

Ninian Park is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Milford Haven, Cardiff Central - Carmarthen, Cardiff Central - Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil - Aberdare, Cardiff Central - Pembroke Dock, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus4, 611, 95 · 5m · $2 · every ~9 min

Ninian Park train station facilities and services

Ninian Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Ninian Park.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ninian Park: Parking, Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Ninian Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ninian Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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