Leeds to Cardiff train with CrossCountry

Mon, Jun 22
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leeds to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Jun 22

Cheapest price

$72

Average price

$162

Fastest journey

3 h 57 m

Average duration

4 h 33 m

Trains per day

5

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 $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Leeds to Cardiff without transferring at least once.

  • Transport for WalesG38870+Transpennine ExpressC24467
    6:15 AM5h23
    Leeds station (LDS)
    11:38 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $721One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38870+Transpennine ExpressC24940
    6:29 AM5h09
    Leeds station (LDS)
    11:38 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $901One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01133 · G01095
    6:11 AM4h14
    Leeds station (LDS)
    10:25 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $1191One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01135+Great Western RailwayG14937
    7:10 AM3h57
    Leeds station (LDS)
    11:07 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $2641One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01133+Great Western RailwayG14935
    6:11 AM4h01
    Leeds station (LDS)
    10:12 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $2641One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Leeds to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leeds to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $48.

Distance: 173 miles (280 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$87

Average price

$30

Average price

Cheapest

$80

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 24m

Average total duration

6h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 14m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Leeds to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $30 (€24).

This is compared to other travel options from Leeds to Cardiff:

A bus is $58 (€47) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leeds to Cardiff costing on average $87 (€71).

The fastest way to travel from Leeds to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 4h 17m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 54m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leeds and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leeds 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 $87 (€71) compared to roughly $80 (€65) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-7.62 (€-6.24). The journey takes 4h 17m versus 4h 14m 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

Leeds to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Leeds to Cardiff trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG01142+Great Western RailwayC01227
On time
8:15 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h19
12:34 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG01142+West Midlands TrainsW70192+Transport for WalesG38899
On time
8:15 AM Leeds station (LDS)
6h34
2:49 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01145+West Midlands TrainsW70195+Transport for WalesG38910
On time
9:00 AM Leeds station (LDS)
6h27
3:27 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01145+Great Western RailwayC01226
On time
9:00 AM Leeds station (LDS)
4h34
1:34 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
CrossCountryW29869+Great Western RailwayC50047+Northern RailG89461
Delayed
9:56 AM 9:45 AMLeeds station (LDS)
4h50
2:35 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2 transfers
CrossCountryW29869+Transport for WalesG38593 · G38920+Northern RailG89461
Delayed
9:56 AM 9:45 AMLeeds station (LDS)
6h10
3:55 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leeds 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.

Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28

Why should you book Leeds to Cardiff trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales or Cross Country 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 or Cross Country 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 train and bus 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 or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Leeds to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leeds to Cardiff.

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 7 times per day, taking around 4h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€39) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) 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 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 $16 (€13)
Distance
173 miles (280 km)
Average train duration
4h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
$48 (€39)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 51m
First train
2:20 AM
Last train
9:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
42 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 $16 (€13)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Leeds to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Leeds and Cardiff from $16 (€13). 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 Duration
3h 51m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
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 Duration
4h 39m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 47m
Cheapest Price
$280 (€229)
Cross Country frequency
12 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

National Museum Cardiff

Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.

Pound Sterling

Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.

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
Train ticket prices from Leeds to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€39), while the average price is around $87 (€71).
The train from Leeds to Cardiff takes 3h 51m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Leeds to Cardiff is 173 miles (280 km).
The first train from Leeds to Cardiff leaves at 2:20 AM.
The last train from Leeds to Cardiff leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Leeds to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Leeds to Cardiff. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leeds to Cardiff.
The train station in Leeds that goes to Cardiff is Leeds station (LDS), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Leeds to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
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.
A day trip from Leeds to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 51m, and the frequency is 6 times per day for trains.
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 Leeds to Cardiff.
Since neither Leeds 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 Leeds 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 Leeds to Cardiff

Most Leeds to Cardiff trains use the Leeds to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. 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 · $1 · 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.

HeadingleyHeadingley station, Kirkstall Lane, Headingley, West Yorkshire, LS5 3LD+44 8002006060ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Headingley from Leeds city centre

Headingley is 3 km from Leeds city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLeeds - York, Leeds - Knaresborough, Leeds - Harrogate, Leeds - Horsforth · 7m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus49, 50, 50A · 19m · every ~26 min
875 · 22m · $5

Headingley train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Headingley.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Headingley: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Headingley: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Headingley: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station. The conductor will carry out any assistance, please wait on the platform. This station has recently benefitted from the installation of lifts, level access to platform 1 with platform 2 being accessible using the lift and a short subway, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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