Cheltenham to Cardiff train with Great Western Railway

Sat, Sep 05
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cheltenham to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05

Cheapest price on Sep 05

Kč300

Average ticket price on Sep 05

Kč497

Fastest journey on Sep 05

1 h 7 m

Average journey duration on Sep 05

1 h 13 m

Trains on Sep 05

6

Distance

89 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cheltenham to Cardiff will cost around Kč497 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only Kč300.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 05, we found 6 trains from Cheltenham to Cardiff, including 4 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 05 the direct trains cover the 89 km distance in an average of 1 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 7 m .

On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest trains will take 1 h 21 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.

  • Transport for WalesG39586
    7:43 AM1h17
    Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
    9:00 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    3001One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01087
    6:44 AM1h21
    Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
    8:05 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    3671One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01086
    6:02 AM1h23
    Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
    7:25 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    3671One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01091
    8:15 AM1h11
    Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
    9:26 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    3671One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01129+Great Western RailwayW34605
    7:29 AM1h08
    Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
    8:37 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    7891One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cheltenham to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of Kč283 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 41m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of Kč283, while a train costs an average of Kč556.

Distance: 55 miles (89 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

Kč556

Average price

Kč283

Average price

Cheapest

Kč519

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 41m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 20m

Average total duration

2h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 24m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 Cheltenham to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of Kč283.

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

A bus is Kč273 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Cardiff costing on average Kč556.

The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 1h 11m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Cardiff 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 13m sooner (1h 11m by train vs 1h 24m by car). Tickets start at around Kč556 compared to roughly Kč519 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 Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Transport for Wales.

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

Cheltenham to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG010866:02 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
1h23
7:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG010876:44 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
1h21
8:05 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG01129+Great Western RailwayW346057:29 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
1h08
8:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG395867:43 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
1h17
9:00 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG010918:15 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
1h11
9:26 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryW29846+Great Western RailwayW346098:29 AM Cheltenham Spa (CNM)
1h07
9:36 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Cardiff by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11

Why should you book Cheltenham to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham to Cardiff.

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, Great Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
  • 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cheltenham to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cheltenham to Cardiff run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at Kč248 but you can travel from only Kč154 by bus.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 55 miles (89 km) distance in 59m.

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 Kč154
Distance
55 miles (89 km)
Average train duration
1h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
Kč248
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
59m
First train
4:25 AM
Last train
11:47 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
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 Kč154

Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Cheltenham to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cheltenham and Cardiff from Kč154. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
59m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
Kč669
Great Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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 CrossCountry Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
Kč272
CrossCountry frequency
3 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
1h 14m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
Kč248
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

Complete guide to Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual 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

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Cheltenham to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cheltenham to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at Kč248, while the average price is around Kč556.
The train from Cheltenham to Cardiff takes 59m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Cheltenham to Cardiff is 55 miles (89 km).
The first train from Cheltenham to Cardiff leaves at 4:25 AM.
The last train from Cheltenham to Cardiff leaves at 11:47 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cheltenham to Cardiff. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Cardiff is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around Kč154.
The train journey from Cheltenham to Cardiff offers scenic views, including picturesque countryside landscapes, charming villages, and glimpses of the River Severn, making it a visually pleasant trip.
Yes, a day trip from Cheltenham to Cardiff is feasible as the journey takes 59m and there are 7 train trips per day. The distance between the two is 55 miles (89 km).
In Cardiff, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Attend performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, or take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay. For adventure, visit Cardiff International White Water for rafting and kayaking. Shop and dine at Cardiff Market. Discover history at Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore art and culture at the National Museum Cardiff, and relax in Bute Park. Cardiff Bay also offers dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
A visit of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore Cardiff's main attractions, such as Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and Cardiff Bay, while allowing time for leisure and dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
Since neither Cheltenham nor Cardiff 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 Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff

Most Cheltenham to Cardiff trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cathays. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Cheltenham station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Cheltenham to Cardiff leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre

Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:

BusD, E, G · 7m · Kč103 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m

Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services

Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.

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