- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Durham to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$66
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$174
Fastest journey on Sep 19
5 h 17 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
5 h 27 m
Trains on Sep 19
11
Distance
382 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Durham to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Durham to Cardiff will cost around $174 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $66.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Durham to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
W29878 · G0111210:53 AM5h32Durham station (DHM)4:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$661One-way1 transfer
G16014+
G388757:06 AM6h39Durham station (DHM)1:45 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$671One-way1 transfer- W29885 · G0111511:53 AM5h33Durham station (DHM)5:26 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$941One-way1 transfer
- W29872 · G011089:53 AM5h32Durham station (DHM)3:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$941One-way1 transfer
- G01141 · G011006:53 AM5h33Durham station (DHM)12:26 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$941One-way1 transfer
- G01151+
W3463612:53 PM5h17Durham station (DHM)6:10 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$3131One-way1 transfer - W29867+W346238:54 AM5h23Durham station (DHM)2:17 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$3131One-way1 transfer
- W29867 · G011068:54 AM5h31Durham station (DHM)2:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1501One-way1 transfer
- W29878 · G0111210:53 AM5h32Durham station (DHM)4:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$661One-way1 transfer
- W29872 · G011089:53 AM5h32Durham station (DHM)3:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$941One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Durham to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Durham to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $76 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 30m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $76, while a train costs an average of $232.
Distance: 237 miles (382 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$232 Average price | $76 Average price Cheapest |
5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 5h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 34m Average total duration 10h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Durham to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $76.
This is compared to other travel options from Durham to Cardiff:
A bus is $156 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Durham to Cardiff costing on average $232.
The fastest way to travel from Durham to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 5h 0m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Durham and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Durham to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Live departures
Durham to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Durham to Cardiff trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:53 AM Durham | 5h32 | 2:25 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| C24943+G38872 | 6:17 AM Durham station (DHM) | 6h28 | 12:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G01141 · G01100 | 6:53 AM Durham station (DHM) | 5h33 | 12:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G16014+G38875 | 7:06 AM Durham station (DHM) | 6h39 | 1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G01146 · G01103 | 7:53 AM Durham station (DHM) | 5h32 | 1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G16011+G38876 | 8:18 AM Durham station (DHM) | 6h26 | 2:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| W29867 · G01106 | 8:54 AM Durham station (DHM) | 5h31 | 2:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| W29867+W34623 | 8:54 AM Durham station (DHM) | 5h23 | 2:17 PM 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 Durham to Cardiff by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
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Wed
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Sep 23
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Durham to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry operates all trains services from Durham to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Durham to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Durham to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Durham to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Durham to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Durham to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $122 but you can travel from only $39 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:16, the last at 18:53. The fastest train covers the 237 miles (382 km) distance in 4h 42m.
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 $39
Distance 237 miles (382 km) |
Average train duration 5h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $122 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 42m |
First train 4:16 AM |
Last train 6:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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 $39
Train companies: CrossCountry from Durham to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Durham and Cardiff from $39. 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 CrossCountry Duration
4h 42m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$122
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
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
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.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
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.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card and mobile payments on buses. Exact fare is not needed if you pay contactless.
- For rail travel around Cardiff, use the official Transport for Wales app for tickets and live times.
FAQs: Trains from Durham to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Durham 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.
Train ticket prices from Durham to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $122, while the average price is around $232.
The train from Durham to Cardiff takes 4h 42m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Durham to Cardiff is 237 miles (382 km).
The first train from Durham to Cardiff leaves at 4:16 AM.
The last train from Durham to Cardiff leaves at 6:53 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Durham to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Durham to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Durham to Cardiff.
The train station in Durham that goes to Cardiff is Durham station (DHM), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Durham to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $39.
The train journey from Durham to Cardiff offers varied scenery, including the picturesque landscapes of the North East, rolling hills of the Midlands, and glimpses of the Brecon Beacons as you approach Cardiff, providing a pleasant and diverse travel experience.
A day trip from Durham to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey duration is 4h 42m. However, there are 6 trains available per day for this route.
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 Durham to Cardiff.
Since neither Durham 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 Durham 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 Durham to Cardiff
Most Durham to Cardiff trains use the Durham to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Durham and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Durham
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Durham station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Durham to Cardiff leave from Durham. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Durham city centre at Durham station, North Road, Durham, County Durham, DH1 4RB.
DurhamDurham station, North Road, Durham, County Durham, DH1 4RB+44 345 722 5333
City-centre transport
Getting to Durham from Durham city centre
Bus2, 9, 12, 12B · 3m · $1 · every ~12 min
Durham train station facilities and services
Durham has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Durham.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Durham.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Durham.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Durham: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Durham: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Durham: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, 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.
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
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.
Most popular train connections from Durham
More options for your journey from Durham to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Durham
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