Inverness to Cardiff train with Scotrail

Tue, Nov 03
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Scotrail
London North Eastern Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Scotrail
London North Eastern Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Inverness to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
Cheapest price on Nov 03
$488
Average ticket price on Nov 03
$488
Fastest journey on Nov 03
10 h 4 m
Average journey duration on Nov 03
10 h 19 m
Trains on Nov 03
4
Distance
670 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Inverness to Cardiff will cost around $488 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $488.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Inverness to Cardiff without transferring at least 2 times.

  • ScotrailL87050+Avanti West CoastW00587+Transport for WalesG38890
    2 transfers
  • ScotrailC14653+London North Eastern RailwayC02014+CrossCountryG01188 · W29908
    4 transfers
  • ScotrailL88094 · L87660+Avanti West CoastW34124+Transport for WalesG38885
    3 transfers
  • ScotrailC14655+Avanti West CoastW34268+Transport for WalesW44838
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Inverness to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Inverness to Cardiff run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $160 but you can travel from only $66 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 13:26. The fastest train covers the 416 miles (670 km) distance in 8h 51m.

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 $66
Distance
416 miles (670 km)
Average train duration
9h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
$160
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
8h 51m
First train
4:08 AM
Last train
1:26 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
28 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 $66

Frequently asked questions about your Inverness to Cardiff trip

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

Train ticket prices from Inverness to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $160, while the average price is around $311.
The train from Inverness to Cardiff takes 8h 51m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Inverness to Cardiff is 416 miles (670 km).
The first train from Inverness to Cardiff leaves at 4:08 AM.
The last train from Inverness to Cardiff leaves at 1:26 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Inverness to Cardiff.

Live departures

Inverness to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ScotrailL88094 · L87660+Transport for WalesG38885+Avanti West CoastW341248:42 AM Inverness station (INV)
10h04
6:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)3 transfers
ScotrailC14653+London North Eastern RailwayC02014+Great Western RailwayG14944+CrossCountryW299089:42 AM Inverness station (INV)
10h55
8:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)4 transfers
ScotrailL87050+Avanti West CoastW00587+Transport for WalesG3889010:50 AM Inverness station (INV)
10h04
8:54 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
ScotrailC14655+Transport for WalesW44838+Avanti West CoastW3426812:48 PM Inverness station (INV)
10h14
11:02 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Inverness to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Scotrail or London North Eastern Railway offer trains services from Inverness to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Inverness 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 Scotrail or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Inverness 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 Inverness to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?

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

Train companies: Scotrail, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway from Inverness to Cardiff trainsScotrail, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Inverness and Cardiff from $66. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Scotrail

About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
8h 51m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$176
Scotrail frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
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
9h 20m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$160
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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
10h 2m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$216
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Inverness 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 Inverness to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Inverness 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 Inverness to Cardiff offers scenic views, particularly through the Scottish Highlands, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and views of historic towns along the way.
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 Inverness to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness 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 Inverness to Cardiff.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Inverness to Cardiff

Most Inverness to Cardiff trains use the Inverness to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Inverness and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Inverness
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Inverness station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Inverness to Cardiff leave from Inverness. The station is from Inverness city centre at Inverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PYWifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park

Inverness train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Inverness.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Inverness. 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 Inverness: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: 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: 3, 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.

Train stations for Inverness to Cardiff

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

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

More options for your journey from Inverness to Cardiff

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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