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The cheapest and fastest trains from Colchester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Nov 07
Cheapest price
$75
Average price
$153
Fastest journey
3 h 42 m
Average duration
4 h 4 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
285 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Colchester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Cardiff will cost around $153 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Colchester for Cardiff on Fri, Nov 07, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 285 km distance in an average of 4 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 42 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 4 h 53 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.
08:33AM3h43
Colchester12:16PMCardiff
$751One-way
0 transfers
07:54AM3h42
Colchester11:36AMCardiff
$821One-way
0 transfers
04:44AM4h53
Colchester09:37AMCardiff
$2111One-way
0 transfers
03:41AM3h58
Colchester07:39AMCardiff
$2421One-way
0 transfers
07:54AM3h42
Colchester11:36AMCardiff
$821One-way
0 transfers
08:33AM3h43
Colchester12:16PMCardiff
$751One-way
0 transfers
03:41AM3h58
Colchester07:39AMCardiff
$2421One-way
0 transfers
04:44AM4h53
Colchester09:37AMCardiff
$2111One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Colchester to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €34. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €34, and a train costs an average of €38.
Distance: 177 miles (285 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€72 Average price | €50 Average price Cheapest |
3h 44m Average total duration Fastest 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 54m Average total duration 6h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Colchester to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 2:31 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:41 AM Colchester | 3h58 | 7:39 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:44 AM Colchester | 4h53 | 9:37 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:54 AM Colchester | 3h42 | 11:36 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:33 AM Colchester | 3h43 | 12:16 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Colchester 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.
Fri
Nov 07
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Nov 12
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Nov 13
Nov 13
Journey information
Overview: Train from Colchester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Colchester to Cardiff run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) but you can travel from only $41 (€34) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 177 miles (285 km) distance in 3h 27m.
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 $41 (€34)
Distance 177 miles (285 km) |
Average train duration 3h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€38) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 27m |
First train 04:41 |
Last train 21:20 |
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 $41 (€34)
Train companies: Great Western Rail, Abellio Greater Anglia from Colchester to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Rail, Abellio Greater Anglia trains will get you between Colchester and Cardiff from $41 (€34). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Rail
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 Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
Great Western Rail frequency
6 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
Abellio Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$217 (€177)
Abellio Greater Anglia frequency
25 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class 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 require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Colchester to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester 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.
The distance by train from Colchester to Cardiff is 177 miles (285 km).
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.
Train ticket prices from Colchester to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $47 (€38), while the average price is around $89 (€72).
The first train from Colchester to Cardiff leaves at 4:41 AM.
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.
The last train from Colchester to Cardiff leaves at 9:20 PM.
A day trip from Colchester to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 27m each way. However, there are 5 trains available per day. The distance is 177 miles (285 km).
There is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Cardiff.
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $41 (€34).
The train from Colchester to Cardiff takes 3h 27m and runs 5 per day.
The train journey from Colchester to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring glimpses of the English countryside, small towns, and the picturesque landscapes of South Wales as you approach Cardiff.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Cardiff is Colchester station (COL), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
There is no high speed train available from Colchester to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Colchester to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Colchester to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Colchester to Cardiff
Colchester
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Colchester is Colchester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Colchester for your trip from Colchester to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 22:00 Saturday 05:30 - 21:00 Sunday 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent Dry cleaner Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: Premium Bays
Accessibility
- 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: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on all platforms. The accessible (radar key) toilets are located on Platforms 2 and 4
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Situated by the South entrance, and in the main car park by the North entrance. A secure 134-space cycle compound is also available (key fob required, speak to station staff for availability).
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Colchester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at the bus stop by main station entrance
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:10 - 20:15 Saturday 07:00 - 18:45 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: There is a Council managed car park behind the station
Accessibility
- 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: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located alongside the ticket office and only open when the station is staffed.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within station, forecourt and on platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
Public transit options for Colchester Town
- Onward travel information: Colchester Town Station is around 5 minutes walk from Colchester Bus Station
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Town Railway Station Bus Stops (stop B) for planned rail replacement only.
Amenities at train station
ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platforms
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Hythe (Essex)
- Onward travel information: Local Colchester Town service Buses stop near station
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement bus services stop at station entrance adjacent to level crossing
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cathays. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cathays for your journey to Cardiff from Colchester.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Ninian Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Radyr) and Platform 2 (to Cardiff) from Waungron Road via ramps with handrails and a steep gradient. Access between the platforms is via the ramps and beneath the railway bridge on Waungron Road.
- 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
Public transit options for Waun-gron Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Waun Gron Road
Most popular train connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Colchester
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