Liverpool to Cardiff train with Transport for Wales

Wed, Oct 14
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Liverpool to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 14

Cheapest price on Oct 14

$60

Average ticket price on Oct 14

$81

Fastest journey on Oct 14

3 h 43 m

Average journey duration on Oct 14

3 h 45 m

Trains on Oct 14

10

Distance

215 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Liverpool to Cardiff will cost around $81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.

Fast trains

On Wed, Oct 14, we found 10 trains from Liverpool to Cardiff, including 10 direct services.

On Wed, Oct 14 the direct trains cover the 215 km distance in an average of 3 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 43 m .

On Wed, Oct 14 the slowest trains will take 3 h 49 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.

  • CrossCountry
    9:12 AM4h13
    Liverpool
    1:25 PMCardiff
    $601One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for Wales
    8:32 AM3h43
    Liverpool
    12:15 PMCardiff
    $601One-way
    0 transfers
  • West Midlands Trains
    8:33 AM4h26
    Liverpool
    12:59 PMCardiff
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • West Midlands Trains
    5:13 AM4h46
    Liverpool
    9:59 AMCardiff
    $701One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    7:08 AM4h18
    Liverpool
    11:26 AMCardiff
    $741One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Liverpool to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Liverpool to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 but you can travel from only $19 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:18, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 3h 1m.

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
133 miles (215 km)
Average train duration
3h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
$40
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 1m
First train
3:18 AM
Last train
11:34 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
21 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 $19

Live departures

Liverpool to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Liverpool to Cardiff trains for today, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG01109+West Midlands TrainsC16934
Delayed
12:30 PM 11:12 AMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
4h13
3:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38878+West Midlands TrainsC16939
Delayed
12:10 PM 12:12 PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h33
3:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
West Midlands TrainsC16944+Transport for WalesG38880
On time
1:12 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h34
4:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38927+Mersey RailC07967
Delayed
1:22 PM 1:31 PMLiverpool James Street (LVJ)
3h46
5:17 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38882+West Midlands TrainsC16949
Delayed
2:10 PM 2:12 PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
3h32
5:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Transport for Wales4:42 AM Liverpool
4h16
8:58 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
West Midlands Trains5:13 AM Liverpool
4h46
9:59 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
Transport for Wales6:12 AM Liverpool
3h46
9:58 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry7:08 AM Liverpool
4h18
11:26 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
Transport for Wales8:32 AM Liverpool
3h43
12:15 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
West Midlands Trains8:33 AM Liverpool
4h26
12:59 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry9:12 AM Liverpool
4h13
1:25 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
Transport for Wales9:32 AM Liverpool
3h43
1:15 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Liverpool to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast and more offer trains services from Liverpool to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Liverpool to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Liverpool 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, West Midlands Trains or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Liverpool to Cardiff.

Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast from Liverpool to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Liverpool and Cardiff from $19. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 1m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$40
Transport for Wales frequency
4 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

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 6m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$46
CrossCountry frequency
1 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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
3h 19m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
$59
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel 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
3h 25m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$143
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

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.

FAQs: Trains from Liverpool to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40, while the average price is around $99.
The train from Liverpool to Cardiff takes 3h 1m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Liverpool to Cardiff is 133 miles (215 km).
The first train from Liverpool to Cardiff leaves at 3:18 AM.
The last train from Liverpool to Cardiff leaves at 11:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Liverpool to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Liverpool to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Liverpool to Cardiff.
The train station in Liverpool that goes to Cardiff is Liverpool Lime Street (LIV), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The train journey from Liverpool to Cardiff offers scenic views of the English and Welsh countryside, passing through charming towns and lush landscapes, particularly as it crosses the border into Wales.
Yes, you can take the train from Liverpool to Cardiff.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
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 Liverpool to Cardiff

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

Departure train stations in Liverpool
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Liverpool Lime StreetLime St, Liverpool L1 1JD, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Liverpool Lime Street from Liverpool city centre

Suburban train linesWirral Line (green)
Bus lines9, 10, 61, 82, 79, 86C, 500
Train linesNorthern, West Midlands, TransPennine Express, East Midlands, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, London Northwestern
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement services depart at the Bus stop on Skelhorne Street, near the Tesco Express. L3 5GA.

Liverpool Lime Street train station facilities and services

Liverpool Lime Street 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, Upper Crust, Starbucks, JD Wetherspoon

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located near Platform 7.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38, Sun: 07:15 - 23:05. Information desks are located in the main concourse.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is the Excess Baggage Co. lockers and staffed luggage storage counter are located in the main concourse near the escalators across from Platform 6. Open daily 08:00 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Lime Street: Full wheelchair access throughout the station, with help points at the Skelhorne Street entrance and at customer information desk in the main concourse.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pembroke Studios, Riley’s Rooms, Holiday Inn Liverpool City Center.

Liverpool James StreetLiverpool James Street station, James Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L2 7PQWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Liverpool James Street from Liverpool city centre

Liverpool James Street is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainWest Kirby - West Kirby, Chester - Chester, Hooton - Chester, Ellesmere Port - Birkenhead Hamilton Square, Rock Ferry - West Kirby, Rock Ferry - Ellesmere Port, Ellesmere Port - Ellesmere Port, New Brighton - New Brighton, Moorfields - Chester, Ellesmere Port - Chester, Hooton - Ellesmere Port, Birkenhead Hamilton Square - West Kirby · 3m · $1 · every ~22 min
Bus10A · 8m · $5 · every ~25 min
838 · 13m

Liverpool James Street train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Liverpool James Street.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Liverpool James Street. ATMs are available at Liverpool James Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Liverpool James Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, 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 Liverpool James Street: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Liverpool James Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool James Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform”The Ticket Office is step free via James Street only and platforms can be accessed via lifts, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Liverpool CentralLiverpool Central station, Ranelagh Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JTWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Liverpool Central from Liverpool city centre

BusN1 · 21m · $5
City Explorer 101 · 32m · every ~3 min

Liverpool Central train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Liverpool Central.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Liverpool Central. ATMs are available at Liverpool Central.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Liverpool Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, 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 Liverpool Central: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Liverpool Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” All platforms can be accessed via lift, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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.

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