- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and archaeology collections. A top cultural stop in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 06
Cheapest price
$75
Average price
$127
Fastest journey
3 h 56 m
Average duration
4 h 1 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
242 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff will cost around $127 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff without transferring at least 2 times.
W34625+
P67524+
C3834010:43 AM3h57Stansted Airport (SSD)2:40 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$751One-way2 transfers- P67520+W34621+
Tube from London Liverpool Street to London Paddington9:28 AM4h12Stansted Airport (SSD)1:40 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$751One-way2 transfers - C42175+P66188+Tube from London Liverpool Street to London Paddington8:28 AM4h12Stansted Airport (SSD)12:40 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$751One-way2 transfers
- P66424+C38265+W354202:43 PM3h57Stansted Airport (SSD)6:40 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$861One-way2 transfers
- P66400+W34635+C385821:43 PM4h03Stansted Airport (SSD)5:46 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$861One-way2 transfers
- W34631+P66376+C3850612:43 PM3h56Stansted Airport (SSD)4:39 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$861One-way2 transfers
- W34625+P67524+C3834010:43 AM3h57Stansted Airport (SSD)2:40 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$751One-way2 transfers
- P66424+C38265+W354202:43 PM3h57Stansted Airport (SSD)6:40 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$861One-way2 transfers
- P66400+W34635+C385821:43 PM4h03Stansted Airport (SSD)5:46 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$861One-way2 transfers
- P67520+W34621+Tube from London Liverpool Street to London Paddington9:28 AM4h12Stansted Airport (SSD)1:40 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$751One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for London Stansted Airport to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a train costs an average of $43.
Distance: 150 miles (242 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$75 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $70 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 30m Average total duration Fastest 3h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 56m Average total duration 5h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $39 (€31).
This is compared to other travel options from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff costing on average $75 (€61).
The fastest way to travel from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 0m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London Stansted Airport and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 28m sooner (3h 0m by train vs 3h 28m by car). Tickets start at around $75 (€61) compared to roughly $70 (€56) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
London Stansted Airport to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for London Stansted Airport to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C42175+P66188+Tube from London Liverpool Street to London Paddington | 8:28 AM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h12 | 12:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
W35068+C38201+ G01103+P67518 | 8:58 AM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h27 | 1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 transfers | |
| W34621+Tube from London Liverpool Street to London Paddington+P67520 | 9:28 AM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h12 | 1:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| W35070+G01106+C38284+P66256 | 9:58 AM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h27 | 2:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 transfers | |
| W34625+C38340+P67524 | 10:43 AM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 3h57 | 2:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| W35072+C38363+P66301+G01108 | 10:58 AM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h27 | 3:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 transfers | |
| W34631+P66376+C38506 | 12:43 PM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 3h56 | 4:39 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| W35076+G01115+C38526+P66382 | 12:58 PM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h28 | 5:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 transfers | |
| W34635+P66400+C38582 | 1:43 PM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h03 | 5:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| C42194 · Y80572+P66406+G01117 | 1:58 PM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h28 | 6:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4 transfers | |
| C38265+W35420+P66424 | 2:43 PM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 3h57 | 6:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| C42282+G01120+P66430+C38291 | 2:58 PM Stansted Airport (SSD) | 4h27 | 7:25 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 London Stansted Airport to Cardiff by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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 London Stansted Airport to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Stansted Express offer trains services from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London Stansted Airport 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 Stansted Express to find the best option for your trip from London Stansted Airport 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 (€34) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:20, the last at 20:57. The fastest train covers the 150 miles (242 km) distance in 3h 29m.
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 $27 (€22)
Distance 150 miles (242 km) |
Average train duration 3h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€34) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 29m |
First train 7:20 AM |
Last train 8:57 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $27 (€22)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Stansted Express from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, Stansted Express trains will get you between London Stansted Airport and Cardiff from $27 (€22). 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 29m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€34)
Great Western Railway frequency
7 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
Stansted Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$212 (€171)
Stansted Express frequency
16 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 museum showing Welsh historic buildings, crafts, and daily life. One of Wales's most celebrated cultural attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Local history museum covering Cardiff's growth from small town to capital city, with interactive displays and social history exhibits.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Waterfront district with modern public spaces, harbourside walks, major landmarks, and a lively atmosphere.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large riverside park beside the castle, ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxing near the city centre.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Network of elegant Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades, famous for architecture and independent businesses.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Toasted bread topped with a rich savoury cheese sauce, often flavoured with mustard or ale. A classic Welsh dish strongly associated with Cardiff pubs and cafes.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausages
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is a distinctive meat-free regional speciality.
Pasture Cardiff
Popular steakhouse focused on wood-fired cooking, quality Welsh beef, and a lively upscale atmosphere close to the city centre.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Well-known restaurant at HMP Cardiff offering refined dining with a social mission, using seasonal ingredients in a calm, professional setting.
Pettigrew Tea Rooms
Charming tea room near Bute Park, loved for Welsh cakes, afternoon tea, and homemade bakes in a relaxed heritage atmosphere.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Dining and transport are manageable, while central hotels and nightlife cost more on busy weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxis. Not expected in pubs or cafés, but small change is appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.50
To the city center
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tap in and tap out with a contactless bank card on Transport for Wales rail services where pay-as-you-go is available, but most local buses require buying a ticket via the operator or app.
- The Transport for Wales app is the main official tool for rail tickets and live updates in Cardiff; check bus operator tickets separately before travel.
FAQs: Trains from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Stansted Airport 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 London Stansted Airport to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43 (€34), while the average price is around $75 (€61).
The train from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff takes 3h 29m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff leaves at 7:20 AM.
The distance by train from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff is 150 miles (242 km).
The last train from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff leaves at 8:57 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff.
The cheapest way to get from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of picturesque countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of the River Severn, enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 29m. There are 7 train trips available per day over a distance of 150 miles (242 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 London Stansted Airport to Cardiff.
Since neither London Stansted Airport 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from London Stansted Airport 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 London Stansted Airport to Cardiff
London
Cardiff
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Most popular train connections from London Stansted Airport
More options for your journey from London Stansted Airport to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and London Stansted Airport
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