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The cheapest and fastest trains from Derby to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Nov 07
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$73
Fastest journey
2 h 36 m
Average duration
2 h 42 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Derby to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Derby to Cardiff will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Derby for Cardiff on Fri, Nov 07, 5 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 198 km distance in an average of 2 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 36 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 2 h 47 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.
04:38PM3h20
Derby07:58PMCardiff
$341One-way
0 transfers
07:42AM2h43
Derby10:25AMCardiff
$561One-way
0 transfers
06:38AM2h47
Derby09:25AMCardiff
$561One-way
0 transfers
01:39PM2h47
Derby04:26PMCardiff
$691One-way
0 transfers
10:31AM2h36
Derby01:07PMCardiff
$1501One-way
0 transfers
10:31AM2h36
Derby01:07PMCardiff
$1501One-way
0 transfers
08:31AM2h39
Derby11:10AMCardiff
$1511One-way
0 transfers
07:42AM2h43
Derby10:25AMCardiff
$561One-way
0 transfers
06:38AM2h47
Derby09:25AMCardiff
$561One-way
0 transfers
01:39PM2h47
Derby04:26PMCardiff
$691One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Derby to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Derby to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €16, and a train costs an average of €22.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€81 Average price | €28 Average price Cheapest |
3h 15m Average total duration Fastest 2h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 9m Average total duration 4h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Derby to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Derby to Cardiff trains for today, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 1:43 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:38 PM Derby | 3h20 | 7:58 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, November 7 | |||||
| 6:38 AM Derby | 2h47 | 9:25 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:31 AM Derby | 2h39 | 11:10 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:31 AM Derby | 2h36 | 1:07 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:39 PM Derby | 2h47 | 4:26 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Derby 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
Thu
Nov 13
Nov 13
Journey information
Overview: Train from Derby to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Derby to Cardiff run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:33. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 2h 36m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 123 miles (198 km) |
Average train duration 2h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 36m |
First train 05:07 |
Last train 21:33 |
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 $20 (€16)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Derby to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Derby and Cardiff from $20 (€16). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 36m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
CrossCountry frequency
7 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 Duration
3h 9m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€87)
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Price
$173 (€141)
Cross Country frequency
25 a day
FAQs: Trains from Derby to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Derby 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.
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 Derby to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27 (€22), while the average price is around $99 (€81).
The distance by train from Derby to Cardiff is 123 miles (198 km).
The cheapest way to get from Derby to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
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 first train from Derby to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The last train from Derby to Cardiff leaves at 9:33 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Derby to Cardiff.
The train from Derby to Cardiff takes 2h 36m and runs 8 per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Derby to Cardiff.
The train station in Derby that goes to Cardiff is Derby station (DBY), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
Yes, there is a direct train from Derby to Cardiff. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Derby to Cardiff.
The train journey from Derby to Cardiff offers varied scenery, including glimpses of the picturesque Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Derby to Cardiff is not feasible due to the journey duration of 2h 36m. However, there are 8 trains per day.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Derby to Cardiff
Derby
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Derby is Derby. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Derby for your trip from Derby to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 04:55 - 22:45 Saturday 04:55 - 22:45 Sunday 06:20 - 23:00
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- 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: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, Platform 2/3 and Platform 4/6. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1, Platform 2/3 and Platform 4/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key. The radar key is available from Customer Reception upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Located in North Car Park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Derby
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the rear of the station, at the Pride Park exit
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. This station has a degree of step free access to the platform which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check for details. Level ramped access to both platforms from level crossing. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform.
- Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on IUP.
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Spondon
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At theÿstation entrance, adjacent to the 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 Derby.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Information 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 RentalCar 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)
Most popular train connections from Derby
More options for your journey from Derby to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Derby
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