Croydon to Cardiff train with Great Western Railway

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Thameslink
Southern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Thameslink
Southern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Croydon to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$104

Average price

$104

Fastest journey

2 h 52 m

Average duration

2 h 52 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

214 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Croydon to Cardiff will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $104.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Croydon for Cardiff on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 214 km distance in an average of 2 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 52 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 2 h 52 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.

  • Great Western Railway
    7:15 AM2h52
    Croydon
    10:07 AMCardiff
    $1041One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Croydon to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Croydon to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 40m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $73.

Distance: 132 miles (214 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$100

Average price

$9

Average price

Cheapest

$57

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 20m

Average total duration

3h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 22m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Croydon to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $9.

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

A bus is $90 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Croydon to Cardiff costing on average $100.

The fastest way to travel from Croydon to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 40m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Croydon and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Croydon 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 42m sooner (2h 40m by train vs 3h 22m by car). Tickets start at around $100 compared to roughly $57 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Croydon to Cardiff train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western Railway7:15 AM Croydon
2h52
10:07 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Croydon 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.

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

Why should you book Croydon to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Thameslink or Southern offer trains services from Croydon to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Croydon to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink or Southern to find the best option for your trip from Croydon 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Croydon to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink or Southern to find the best option for your trip from Croydon to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Croydon to Cardiff.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Croydon to Cardiff?

The best time to book your train from Croydon to Cardiff is 28 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Croydon to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Croydon to Cardiff per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Croydon to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Croydon to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Croydon to Cardiff run on average 2 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 but you can travel from only $7 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:11, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 2h 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 $7
Distance
132 miles (214 km)
Average train duration
2h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$73
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
2h 52m
First train
3:11 AM
Last train
9:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
63 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 $7

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Thameslink, Southern from Croydon to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, Thameslink, Southern trains will get you between Croydon and Cardiff from $7. 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 Duration
2h 52m
Cheapest Price
$73
Great Western Railway frequency
2 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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
$190
Thameslink frequency
17 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Southern

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
$210
Southern frequency
8 a day

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 Croydon to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Croydon 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 Croydon to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73, while the average price is around $100.
The train from Croydon to Cardiff takes 2h 52m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Croydon to Cardiff is 132 miles (214 km).
The first train from Croydon to Cardiff leaves at 3:11 AM.
The last train from Croydon to Cardiff leaves at 9:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Croydon to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Croydon to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Croydon to Cardiff.
The train station in Croydon that goes to Cardiff is East Croydon (ECR), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Croydon to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $7.
The train journey from Croydon to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring the rolling landscapes of the English countryside and glimpses of the Severn Estuary as you approach Cardiff, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Croydon to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 52m. However, there are 2 trains per day available for this 132 miles (214 km) journey.
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 Croydon to Cardiff.
Since neither Croydon 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 Croydon 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 Croydon to Cardiff

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

Departure train stations in Croydon
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Croydon station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Croydon to Cardiff leave from East Croydon. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Croydon city centre at East Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LF.
East CroydonEast Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LFWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to East Croydon from Croydon city centre

East Croydon is 1 km from Croydon city centre. Public transport options include:

BusN68 · 11m · $2 · every ~2 min

East Croydon train station facilities and services

East Croydon 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 and drink options are available at East Croydon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at East Croydon. ATMs are available at East Croydon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at East Croydon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at East Croydon: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at East Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at East Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free access to all platforms. Lifts to overbridge from all platforms and side entrance. Long steep ramps to platforms from main entrance. (over 1:10 gradient). Assistance Meeting Point is the Information Point on station concourse, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

PurleyPurley station, Station Approach, Whytecliffe Road, Purley, London, CR2 2APWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Purley from Croydon city centre

Purley is 5 km from Croydon city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Bridge - Caterham, London Victoria - Reigate, Tulse Hill - Caterham, London Bridge - Tattenham Corner, London Victoria - Brighton, London Victoria - Three Bridges, London Victoria - Ore, London Victoria - Horsham, London Bridge - Purley, London Victoria - Redhill, East Croydon - Caterham, London Victoria - Bognor Regis, London Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour · 8m · $2 · every ~9 min
Bus407, N68 · 19m · $2 · every ~21 min
60 · 20m · $2 · every ~24 min
439 · 22m · $2 · every ~6 min
289 · 47m · $2 · every ~20 min

Purley train station facilities and services

Purley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Purley.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Purley. ATMs are available at Purley.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Purley.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Purley: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Purley: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Purley: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is on platform 6 above the waiting room, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

West CroydonWest Croydon station, London Road, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 2TAWifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to West Croydon from Croydon city centre

Bus289 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min
450 · 5m · $2 · every ~22 min
157 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min

West Croydon train station facilities and services

West Croydon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at West Croydon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at West Croydon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at West Croydon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at West Croydon: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at West Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at West Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: B2 station category. Step free access available for platform 1 and 3 using the London Road car park entrance . This side gate is kept locked but has help buttons to request use. Step-free access via separate entrance to platform 4 (to Sutton), 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.

More options for your journey from Croydon to Cardiff

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