London to Cardiff train with Great Western Rail

Tue, May 20
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for May 21

Cheapest price

$89

Average price

$114

Fastest journey

1 h 48 m

Average duration

1 h 50 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

211 km

Cheap tickets

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 $114 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave London for Cardiff on Wed, May 21, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, May 21 the direct trains cover the 211 km distance in an average of 1 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 48 m .

On Wed, May 21 the slowest trains will take 1 h 52 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.

Great Western RailP08240
10:15AM1h55
London Paddington (PAD)
12:10PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$891One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP08241
10:48AM1h48
London Paddington (PAD)
12:36PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$891One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP08238
09:18AM1h49
London Paddington (PAD)
11:07AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1081One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP08239
09:48AM1h52
London Paddington (PAD)
11:40AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1081One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP08236
08:18AM1h51
London Paddington (PAD)
10:09AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1221One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for London to Cardiff

Omio 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 1h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg.

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

€74

Average price

€16

Average price

Cheapest

2h 28m

Average duration

Fastest

1h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 3m

Average duration

3h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

London to Cardiff train times

Showing trains for today, Tuesday, May 20
Last updated at 7:20 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
great_westernP08237
On time
7:48 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h49
9:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP08238
On time
8:18 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h49
10:07 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP08239
On time
8:48 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h52
10:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP08240
On time
9:15 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h55
11:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP08241
On time
9:48 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h48
11:36 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
great_westernP08236
On time
7:18 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h51
9:09 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets London to Cardiff by train or bus

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How far in advance should I book train tickets from London to Cardiff?

The best time to book your train from London to Cardiff is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the London to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from London to Cardiff per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from London to Cardiff.

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Journey information

Overview: Train from London to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train
Trains from London to Cardiff run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 (€47) but you can travel from only $8 (€7) by bus.
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 $8 (€7)
Distance
131 miles (211 km)
Average train duration
1h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$57 (€47)
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
12
Train providers
2
Fastest train
1h 43m
First train
05:50
Last train
22:49
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 $8 (€7)

Train companies: Great Western Rail, South Western Railway and first_great_western from London to Cardiff trains

For as little as $39 (€33) you can travel by train from London to Cardiff with Great Western Rail, South Western Railway and first_great_western. Omio will show you the best deals, schedules and tickets available for this trip.

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.

Train information from London to Cardiff with Great Western Rail:

  • Average Duration: 1 h 47 min
  • Cheapest Price: $39

Traveling by train from London to 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.

Train Connection: London to Cardiff

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.

London to Cardiff Train Connection

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.

Train Tickets Price from London to Cardiff

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.

Exploring Cardiff: A Journey Through History and Culture

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.

FAQs: Trains from London to Cardiff

FAQs: Travel by train from London to Cardiff easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from London to Cardiff.
FAQs

popular train stations

Popular train stations from London to Cardiff

London
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in London is London Paddington. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at London Paddington for your trip from London to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 24/7
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located near the taxi stand beside Platform 11.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent Flower stall Shoe repairer Wide range of shops Mini supermarket Pharmacy Convenience store High street shops Off Licence Passport Photo Booth
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
Dining
  • Wasabi
  • The Beer House
  • Barburrito
  • Upper Crust
  • The Mad Bishop & Bear (Fullers)
  • The Pasty Shop
  • Burger King
  • Pret a Manger
  • The Savanna
  • Soboro Bakery
  • & more
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: The taxi deck is situated above Platform 12 and is accessed via the concourse and platform 12, which has escalators and lifts to the upper level to the covered marshalled taxi rank. A queuing system is in operation. There is also a separate collection point for pre-booked taxis and a drop off point
  • Accessible taxis: All London Black Cabs can accommodate wheelchair passengers without wheelchair users having to leave their wheelchair. There is also a separate collection point for prebooked taxis also further away from the lifts.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair access, escalators, elevators.
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Accessible toilets are located on Platforms' 1 and 12. A Changing Places facility is located on Platform 12. There are dedicated breastfeeding rooms / Parent & Baby rooms; within the Ladies toilets on Platform 1 within the public toilets on Platform 12.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: Accessible toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 12.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hilton London Paddington
  • Mercure London Paddington Hotel
  • The Pilgrm
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Platform 12
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • 24/7
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: On platform 8/9 and 10
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near Platform 1.
Public transit options for London Paddington
  • Underground lines: Bakerloo Line, Circle Line, District Line, Hammersmith Line
  • Bus lines: N7, 23, 27, N27, 36, 205, N205, 332, 7, 46, A1, 18, N18
  • Train lines: Great Western Main Line, Heathrow Express
  • Metro: Tube Lines.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:35 - 23:25 Saturday 05:35 - 23:25 Sunday 07:00 - 20:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
12 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Accessibility Category B. This station has step-free access to all platforms except platform 2. Staff ramp assistance is always available. Accessible seating is available on platforms
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located within the stations ticket hall on Approach Road.
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available open hours: Staff are available to assist from the first to last train.
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Toilets are located on platform 4.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: An accessible toilet is located within the waiting room on platform 4. This toilet is operated with a radar key.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: An accessible waiting room with automatic door opening is located on Platform 4. The waiting room is open from first train to last train
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Ealing Broadway
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stop F outside station entrance (both directions) Click here for map
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 00:00
  • Sat: 06:00 - 23:00
  • Sun: 07:00 - 00:00
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free public Wi-Fi available.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Excess Baggage Co luggage storage is located near the entrance to Platform 16 and is open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: Wide range of shops - see the Station Plan map.
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Caffè Nero
  • Nando's
  • The Signal Box
  • Delice de France
  • Tortilla
  • Starbucks
  • AMT Coffee
  • Upper Crust
  • Camden Food Co.
  • & many more
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: The taxi rank is located beneath the station.
  • Accessible taxis: The route to the main taxi pick up point has steps, so anyone with mobility problems can use the disabled taxi pick up point reached via the lifts. You can request assistance to and from the taxi rank can using the telephones at the top of the stairs and at the taxi set down point. Or by telephoning Mobility Assistance at London Euston on 0207 922 6482. The main taxi rank is beneath the station and is reached via the lifts next to the main ticket office or the stairs by the entrance to the Underground.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Station is fully accessible, and passengers can request assistance at the mobility assistance reception desk.
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: These are located by the entrance to platforms 1-3 There are also accessible showers located in the First Class Lounge, shared between Caledonian Sleeper and Avanti West Coast.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: These are located adjacent to the main public toilets, by the entrance to platforms 1-3.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hilton London Euston
  • The Wesley Euston Hotel
  • Travelodge London Central Euston
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Located by the entrance to platforms 16-18
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 00:00
  • Sat: 06:00 - 23:00
  • Sun: 07:00 - 00:00
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: On platform 18 at buffer end, West Colonnade opposite Sainsbury's, alongside station entrance, East Colonnade opposite M&S and to the rear of Nandos and Cafe Rouge
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the center of the station's main concourse.
Public transit options for London Euston
  • Tube lines: Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern (Bank and Charing Cross branches), Victoria
  • Overground lines: Watford DC
  • Bus lines: 18, 30, 59, 68, 73, 91, 168, 205, 253, 390, N5, N20, N73, N91, N205, N253
  • Rail lines: London North Western Railway, London Overground, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Go to Platform 2, there is a gate adjacent to the station from the main road.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from London.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
Dining
  • Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
  • Pret a Manger
  • Tesco Express
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
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
Hotel
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff
  • Cardiff Marriott Hotel
  • Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
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)

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