Edinburgh to Cardiff train with CrossCountry

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Transpennine Express
London North Eastern Railway
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Transpennine Express
London North Eastern Railway
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$119
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$274
Fastest journey on Nov 04
5 h 52 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
5 h 55 m
Trains on Nov 04
16
Distance
497 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Edinburgh to Cardiff will cost around $274 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $119.

Fast trains

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 16 trains from Edinburgh to Cardiff, including 1 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 497 km distance in an average of 5 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 52 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 6 h 2 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 WalesG38892+Transpennine ExpressW84918
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesW44831+Transpennine ExpressW84923
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryW29873 · G01109
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryW29862 · G01102
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01166 · G01127
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Edinburgh to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $69 but you can travel from only $34 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 18:52. The fastest train covers the 308 miles (497 km) distance in 5h 41m.

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 $34
Distance
308 miles (497 km)
Average train duration
6h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$69
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
5h 41m
First train
4:00 AM
Last train
6:52 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
49 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 $34

Frequently asked questions about your Edinburgh to Cardiff trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $69, while the average price is around $177.
The train from Edinburgh to Cardiff takes 5h 41m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Cardiff is 308 miles (497 km).
The first train from Edinburgh to Cardiff leaves at 4:00 AM.
The last train from Edinburgh to Cardiff leaves at 6:52 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

Live departures

Edinburgh to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryW29862 · G011026:02 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h23
1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34265+Transport for WalesG388736:52 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
5h52
12:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29868+Great Western RailwayW346227:03 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h05
2:08 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29873 · G011098:08 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h17
3:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW33933+Transport for WalesG388778:52 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
5h52
2:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01148+Great Western RailwayW346299:05 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h01
4:06 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34060+Transport for WalesG3888010:52 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
5h54
4:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01153+Great Western RailwayW3541911:04 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h02
6:06 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34124+Transport for WalesG3888512:52 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
5h54
6:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG011611:05 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h01
8:06 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38892+Transpennine ExpressW849182:12 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h43
9:55 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW00587+Transport for WalesG388902:52 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
6h02
8:54 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01166 · G011273:04 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h31
10:35 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transport for WalesW44831+Transpennine ExpressW849234:11 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
8h09
12:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34268+Transport for WalesW448384:52 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
6h10
11:02 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01170+Transport for WalesG396475:04 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
7h30
12:34 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Edinburgh to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express, London North Eastern Railway and more offer trains services from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express from Edinburgh to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Edinburgh and Cardiff from $34. 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
6h 13m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$72
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

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
5h 41m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$69
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
5h 49m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$111
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
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
5h 42m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$69
Transport for Wales frequency
1 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

Transpennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
6h 18m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$91
Transpennine Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Edinburgh and Cardiff

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
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.

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.

Plan your visit to Cardiff

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cardiff.

The train journey from Edinburgh to Cardiff offers scenic views, especially through the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Borders and the Lake District, providing travelers with a visually appealing experience.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh 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
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Edinburgh to Cardiff

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

Departure train stations in Edinburgh
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre

BusUk090 · 12m · $2 · every ~32 min

Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services

Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.

HaymarketHaymarket station, Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH12 5EYWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Haymarket from Edinburgh city centre

Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:

Train3m · $2
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · $2 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · $2
TramT50 · 6m · $5 · every ~30 min

Haymarket train station facilities and services

Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: 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. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, 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.

Train stations for Edinburgh to Cardiff

Check train stations information for Edinburgh and Cardiff, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Cardiff is Edinburgh Waverley, which connects to Cardiff Central.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone