- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and archaeology collections. A top cultural stop in the city centre.
Cheapest price
$83
Average price
$89
Fastest journey
2 h 26 m
Average duration
2 h 27 m
Trains per day
28
Distance
211 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London 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 to Cardiff will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
Of the 28 trains that leave London for Cardiff on Sat, Jun 06, 15 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 06 the direct trains cover the 211 km distance in an average of 2 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 26 m .
On Sat, Jun 06 the slowest trains will take 2 h 27 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.
W34605
C42180
W34641
W34609
W34635
W34609
W34605
C42176
W34631
C42180Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from London to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $47.
Distance: 131 miles (211 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$83 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $72 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() 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.
This is compared to other travel options from London to Cardiff:
A bus is $71 (€57) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London to Cardiff costing on average $83 (€67).
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 21m.
Tickets start at around $83 (€67) compared to roughly $72 (€59) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-10.59 (€-8.63). The journey takes 3h 6m versus 3h 4m 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.
The table below shows live departures for London to Cardiff trains for today, Friday, June 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
C42182 | On time 10:49 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h54 | 1:43 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 6 | |||||
W34605 | 6:12 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h26 | 8:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34609 | 7:12 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h26 | 9:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35062+ G01094 | 7:32 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h53 | 10:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
C42174 | 8:12 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h28 | 10:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42281+ G01097 | 8:32 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h53 | 11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
W34615 | 9:12 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h28 | 11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35066+ G01100 | 9:32 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h54 | 12:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
C42175 | 10:12 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h28 | 12:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35068+ G01103 | 10:32 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h53 | 1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
W34621 | 11:12 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h28 | 1:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35070+ G01106 | 11:32 AM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h53 | 2:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
W34625 | 12:12 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h28 | 2:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35072+ G01108 | 12:32 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h53 | 3:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
C42176 | 1:12 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h27 | 3:39 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35074+ G01112 | 1:32 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h53 | 4:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
W34631 | 2:12 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h27 | 4:39 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35076+ G01115 | 2:33 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h53 | 5:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
W34635 | 3:12 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h34 | 5:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42194 · Y80572+ G01117 | 3:30 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h56 | 6:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
W35420 | 4:12 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h28 | 6:40 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
C42282+ G01120 | 4:33 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h52 | 7:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
W34641 | 5:12 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h27 | 7:39 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35081+ G01121 | 5:32 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h50 | 8:22 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
C42180 | 6:12 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h27 | 8:39 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35083+ G01123 | 6:28 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h54 | 9:22 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
C42181 | 7:12 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h27 | 9:39 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W35085+ G01125 | 7:32 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 3h00 | 10:32 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
W34650 | 8:48 PM London Paddington (PAD) | 2h38 | 11:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from London to Cardiff run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) but you can travel from only $7 (€5) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 131 miles (211 km) distance in 1h 44m.
Distance 131 miles (211 km) |
Average train duration 3h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€38) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 1h 44m |
First train 12:07 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
Major national museum with art, natural history, and archaeology collections. A top cultural stop in the city centre.
Open-air museum showing Welsh historic buildings, crafts, and daily life. One of Wales's most celebrated cultural attractions.
Local history museum covering Cardiff's growth from small town to capital city, with interactive displays and social history exhibits.
Historic castle in the city centre with Roman, Norman, and Victorian layers. The best-known landmark in Cardiff.
Fairy-tale Gothic Revival castle on wooded hills north of Cardiff, famous for its lavish interiors and scenic approach.
Medieval cathedral with striking architecture, notable artworks, and a peaceful setting in historic Llandaff.
Waterfront district with modern public spaces, harbourside walks, major landmarks, and a lively atmosphere.
Large riverside park beside the castle, ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxing near the city centre.
Network of elegant Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades, famous for architecture and independent businesses.
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.
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.
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is a distinctive meat-free regional speciality.
Popular steakhouse focused on wood-fired cooking, quality Welsh beef, and a lively upscale atmosphere close to the city centre.
Well-known restaurant at HMP Cardiff offering refined dining with a social mission, using seasonal ingredients in a calm, professional setting.
Charming tea room near Bute Park, loved for Welsh cakes, afternoon tea, and homemade bakes in a relaxed heritage atmosphere.
Moderate by UK standards. Dining and transport are manageable, while central hotels and nightlife cost more on busy weekends.
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.
Official public transport app
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
The train connection between London and Cardiff is well-served by two main providers: Great Western Railway and South Western Railway. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable journey, with frequent services operating throughout the day. The distance of approximately 150 km (93 miles) makes for an efficient trip, allowing passengers to experience the scenic views of the English countryside along the way. Whether you're heading to Cardiff for its vibrant culture or returning to London after exploring Wales' capital, these rail options provide convenient travel solutions.
Traveling from London to Cardiff takes approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes. There are up to 15 connections available each day, with direct trains offered for this route. Passengers will depart from either Ealing Broadway or London Paddington and arrive at Cardiff Central station.
The first daily train journey from London to Cardiff departs at 05:48 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the vibrant capital of Wales. The last train leaves at 10:49 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before returning in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey between London and Cardiff is €33. The average ticket price typically hovers around €63, making it an accessible option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture of Wales or enjoy the sights of England's capital.
Cardiff Castle, with its origins dating back to the Roman era, stands as a testament to over 2,000 years of history. This iconic landmark not only showcases stunning Gothic architecture but also reflects Wales' rich heritage through its beautifully preserved interiors and fascinating exhibitions. As you explore the castle grounds, you'll discover unique features like the fairy tale-like clock tower and the impressive Norman keep that offer breathtaking views of Cardiff.
The Principality Stadium is more than just a sports venue; it’s an architectural marvel known for being one of the first stadiums in Europe with a fully retractable roof. Opened in 1999, this state-of-the-art facility has hosted numerous high-profile events including rugby matches and concerts by global superstars. Its vibrant atmosphere and capacity to hold over 74,000 spectators make it an essential stop for any visitor wanting to experience Welsh culture at its most exhilarating.
National Museum Cardiff serves as both an art gallery and natural history museum, housing some of Europe's finest collections under one roof since opening in 1927. The significance lies not only in its extensive exhibits ranging from Impressionist paintings to dinosaur skeletons but also in how it celebrates Welsh identity through various cultural artifacts. Unique features include interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages while showcasing remarkable pieces such as Monet's "Water Lilies" or ancient fossils found right here in Wales.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London 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.

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