Leeds to Cardiff train with CrossCountry

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leeds to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$45
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$126
Fastest journey on Nov 04
3 h 47 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
3 h 51 m
Trains on Nov 04
40
Distance
280 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leeds to Cardiff will cost around $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.

Fast trains

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 40 trains from Leeds to Cardiff, including 1 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 280 km distance in an average of 3 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 47 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 3 h 53 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.

  • CrossCountryG01161
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine ExpressC03172+Transport for WalesG38885
    1 transfer
  • Transpennine ExpressC24826+Transport for WalesG38868
    1 transfer
  • Transpennine ExpressC24605+Transport for WalesG38886
    1 transfer
  • Transpennine ExpressW85301+Transport for WalesG38892
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leeds to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Leeds to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 but you can travel from only $19 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 02:20, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 173 miles (280 km) distance in 3h 37m.

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 $19
Distance
173 miles (280 km)
Average train duration
4h 4m
Cheapest ticket price
$46
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 37m
First train
2:20 AM
Last train
9:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
1 day
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 $19

Frequently asked questions about your Leeds to Cardiff trip

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

Train ticket prices from Leeds to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46, while the average price is around $109.
The train from Leeds to Cardiff takes 3h 37m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Leeds to Cardiff leaves at 2:20 AM.
The distance by train from Leeds to Cardiff is 173 miles (280 km).
The last train from Leeds to Cardiff leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leeds to Cardiff.

Live departures

Leeds to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Leeds 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
Transpennine ExpressC24826+Transport for WalesG388685:45 AM Leeds station (LDS)
5h04
10:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24677+Transport for WalesG388686:08 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h41
10:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01133 · G010956:11 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h14
10:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressG16141+Transport for WalesG388707:06 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h32
11:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01135+Great Western RailwayG149377:10 AM Leeds station (LDS)
3h57
11:07 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01135 · G010987:10 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h15
11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW85241+Transport for WalesG388738:05 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h39
12:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01140+Great Western RailwayW346178:15 AM Leeds station (LDS)
3h55
12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW85248+Transport for WalesG388749:05 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h48
1:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29862+Great Western RailwayG149399:15 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h01
1:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressG15893+Transport for WalesG388779:45 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h59
2:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24399+Transport for WalesG3887710:00 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h44
2:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29868+Great Western RailwayW3462210:15 AM Leeds station (LDS)
3h53
2:08 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29868 · G0110710:15 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h10
2:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC03158+Transport for WalesG3887810:45 AM Leeds station (LDS)
5h00
3:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29873 · G0110911:15 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h10
3:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29873+Great Western RailwayG1494011:15 AM Leeds station (LDS)
3h53
3:08 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24587+Transport for WalesG3888011:45 AM Leeds station (LDS)
5h01
4:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01148+Great Western RailwayW3462912:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
3h51
4:06 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01148 · G0111312:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
4h10
4:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24593+Transport for WalesG3888212:45 PM Leeds station (LDS)
4h59
5:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29884 · G011141:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
4h11
5:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29884+Great Western RailwayW346321:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
3h54
5:09 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC03172+Transport for WalesG388851:45 PM Leeds station (LDS)
5h01
6:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01153+Great Western RailwayW354192:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
3h51
6:06 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01153 · G011182:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
4h14
6:29 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24605+Transport for WalesG388862:45 PM Leeds station (LDS)
5h00
7:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01154 · G011193:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
4h11
7:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01154 · G011193:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
4h11
7:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01154+Great Western RailwayG149413:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
3h55
7:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW85292+Transport for WalesG388904:07 PM Leeds station (LDS)
4h47
8:54 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG011614:15 PM Leeds station (LDS)
3h51
8:06 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Leeds to Cardiff trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Leeds to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leeds to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Leeds 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leeds to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Leeds to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Leeds and Cardiff from $19. 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
3h 37m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$51
CrossCountry frequency
4 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 Transport for Wales Duration
3h 58m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$46
Transport for Wales frequency
3 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Leeds and Cardiff

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

There is no high speed train available from Leeds to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leeds 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 Leeds to Cardiff offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales and the Brecon Beacons, providing a mix of rolling hills, lush greenery, and charming countryside.
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 Leeds to Cardiff

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

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Leeds to Cardiff

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

Departure train stations in Leeds
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
LeedsNew Station St, Leeds LS1 4DY, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Leeds from Leeds city centre

Bus lines1, 16, 201, 229, 34, 5, 60, A1
Train linesNorthern, TransPennine Express

Leeds train station facilities and services

Leeds 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, Caffè Nero, KFC, Leon, McDonald's, The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Pret a Manger, JD Wetherspoon, Delice de France

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located in the West Footbridge and South Concourse.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:45 - 23:59, Sun: 06:45 - 22:30. Information desks are located on the North Concourse near the Wellington Street entrance. Open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is located on the main concourse. Services provided by Excess Baggage Co, open daily from 08:00 until 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leeds: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leeds: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leeds: There are elevators or level access to all platforms in the whole station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Center, The Queens Hotel, Leeds Marriott Hotel.

Burley ParkBurley Park station, Ashville Road, Burley Park, West Yorkshire, LS6 1NA+44 8002006060ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Burley Park from Leeds city centre

Burley Park is 2 km from Leeds city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLeeds - York, Leeds - Knaresborough, Leeds - Harrogate, Leeds - Horsforth · 4m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus19, 19A · 8m · every ~7 min
19, 19A · 11m · every ~7 min

Burley Park train station facilities and services

Burley Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Burley Park.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Burley Park: Parking, Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Burley Park: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Burley Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B station, Persons in wheelchairs can gain easy access onto both platforms. However to get onto the Harrogate bound platform you have to go a long way round it will take approx 5-7 minutes, 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 ticket machines note: Cards Only - No Cash Accepted, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Train stations for Leeds to Cardiff

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

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

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