- 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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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Kettering to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kettering to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $59. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $59, and a train costs an average of $163.
Distance: 122 miles (197 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$163 Average price | $59 Average price Cheapest | $54 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 38m Average total duration Fastest 3h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 38m Average total duration 9h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Kettering to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $59 (€48).
This is compared to other travel options from Kettering to Cardiff:
A bus is $104 (€85) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kettering to Cardiff costing on average $163 (€133).
The fastest way to travel from Kettering to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 8m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Kettering and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kettering to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $163 (€133) compared to roughly $54 (€44) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-108.79 (€-88.65). The journey takes 3h 8m versus 3h 0m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Kettering to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Kettering to Cardiff trains for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 2:52 PM Kettering | 4h14 | 7:06 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Kettering 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.
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Why should you book Kettering to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Kettering to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kettering 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 CrossCountry or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Kettering 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 Kettering to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Kettering to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Kettering to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kettering to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Kettering to Cardiff run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $163 (€133) but you can travel from only $59 (€48) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:06. The fastest train covers the 122 miles (197 km) distance in 4h 3m.
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 $59 (€48)
Distance 122 miles (197 km) |
Average train duration 3h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $163 (€133) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 4h 3m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 9:06 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $59 (€48)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, east_midlands_trains from Kettering to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Kettering and Cardiff from $59 (€48). 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
3h 41m
Cheapest Price
$194 (€158)
Great Western Railway frequency
5 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
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
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
$163 (€133)
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
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Price
$237 (€193)
east_midlands_trains frequency
11 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
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 Kettering to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kettering 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 Kettering to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $163 (€133), while the average price is around $163 (€133).
The train from Kettering to Cardiff takes 4h 3m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Kettering to Cardiff is 122 miles (197 km).
The first train from Kettering to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The last train from Kettering to Cardiff leaves at 9:06 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Kettering to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Kettering to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kettering to Cardiff.
The train station in Kettering that goes to Cardiff is Kettering station (KET), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Kettering to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $59 (€48).
The train journey from Kettering to Cardiff offers picturesque views, especially as it passes through the rolling countryside of the Midlands and the scenic landscapes of Wales, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Kettering to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 3m. Trains run 9 times per day over a distance of 122 miles (197 km).
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 Kettering to Cardiff.
Since neither Kettering 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 Kettering 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 Kettering to Cardiff
Most Kettering to Cardiff trains use the Kettering to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Kettering and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Kettering
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Kettering station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Kettering to Cardiff leave from Kettering. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Kettering city centre at Kettering station, Station Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN15 7HJ.
KetteringKettering station, Station Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN15 7HJ+44 8457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Kettering from Kettering city centre
Bus48 · 2m · $2 · every ~3 min
Kettering train station facilities and services
Kettering has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Kettering.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kettering.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kettering: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kettering: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kettering: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station. This station has step free access to all platforms. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms, 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: No.
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 Kettering
More options for your journey from Kettering to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Kettering
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