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London to Cardiff train with Great Western Rail

Wed, Jan 21
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Great Western Rail
South Western Railway
first_great_western
Deutsche Bahn
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Great Western Rail
South Western Railway
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Jan 22

Cheapest price

$72

Average price

$108

Fastest journey

1 h 44 m

Average duration

1 h 47 m

Trains per day

31

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 $108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.

Fast trains

Of the 31 trains that leave London for Cardiff on Thu, Jan 22, 31 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jan 22 the direct trains cover the 211 km distance in an average of 1 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 44 m .

On Thu, Jan 22 the slowest trains will take 1 h 48 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 RailP22648
10:49PM2h36
London Paddington (PAD)
01:25AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$721One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP22645
09:48PM1h58
London Paddington (PAD)
11:46PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$781One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP22643
08:48PM1h59
London Paddington (PAD)
10:47PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$781One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP22626
11:48AM1h47
London Paddington (PAD)
01:35PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$781One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailP22627
12:13PM1h55
London Paddington (PAD)
02:08PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$781One-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 €8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 23m. 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 €8, and a train costs an average of €38.

Distance: 131 miles (211 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

€67

Average price

€13

Average price

Cheapest

2h 53m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 16m

Average total duration

3h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Great Western Rail

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

London to Cardiff train times

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

Last updated at 4:39 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
great_westernP22619
On time
8:18 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h51
10:09 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernP22620
On time
8:48 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h49
10:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernP22621
On time
9:18 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h52
11:10 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernP22622
On time
9:48 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h52
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernP22623
On time
10:16 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h54
12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernP22624
On time
10:48 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h49
12:37 PM 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

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.

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Why should you book London to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Great Western Rail as well as South Western Railway and first_great_western offer trains services from London to Cardiff. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Rail?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway and first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from London 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 Rail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Great Western Rail tickets can be bought on Great Western Rail's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of South Western Railway and first_great_western to help you choose the right option for your journey from London to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from London to Cardiff.

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.

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 16 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€38) but you can travel from only $10 (€8) by bus.

There are 15 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 43m.

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 $10 (€8)
Distance
131 miles (211 km)
Average train duration
2h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
$48 (€38)
Trains per day
16
Direct trains
15
Fastest train
1h 43m
First train
00:07
Last train
23:00
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 $10 (€8)

Train companies: Great Western Rail, South Western Railway, first_great_western from London to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Rail, South Western Railway, first_great_western trains will get you between London and Cardiff from $10 (€8). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Rail

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
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€38)
Great Western Rail frequency
15 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
Learn more about Great Western Rail

South Western Railway

About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$92 (€74)
South Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Learn more about South Western Railway

first_great_western

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 44m
Cheapest Price
$181 (€145)
first_great_western frequency
25 a day

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

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from London to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€38), while the average price is around $84 (€67).
The train from London to Cardiff takes 1h 43m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from London to Cardiff is 131 miles (211 km).
The first train from London to Cardiff leaves at 12:07 AM.
The last train from London to Cardiff leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from London to Cardiff. This service operates 15 times per day, provided by Great Western Rail, first_great_western.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Cardiff.
The train station in London that goes to Cardiff is London Paddington (PAD), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from London to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
The London to Cardiff train journey offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Thames, picturesque countryside, and historic towns as you travel through England and into Wales.
A day trip from London to Cardiff is feasible since the journey takes 1h 43m, covering a distance of 131 miles (211 km). Trains run 16 times per day.
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 to Cardiff.

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.
London PaddingtonWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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
address
Address
Praed Street, London, Greater London, W2 1HQ, United Kingdom
phone
Phone Number
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.
Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3WifiShoppingParkingATMAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket Office
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
address
Address
Heathrow Airport Terminals 2 & 3 station, Inner Ring Road, Heathrow Airport, Greater London, TW6 1WD
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 05:00 - 23:59
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
23 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Level access to platforms, lifts to airport facilities. Ticket Office is step free. Wheelchair users can board trains with ease as the platforms are level with the trains.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • National key toilets: No
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Public transit options for Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3
  • Onward travel information: National Rail trains serving London Paddington National Express coaches to Victoria Coach Station and Gatwick Airport London Underground
  • Metro: Connection available with the London Underground (Piccadilly Line)
Heathrow Terminal 5ParkingAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket Office
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
AccessibilityAccessibility
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
address
Address
Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 station, Terminal 5, Heathrow Airport, Greater London, TW6 2GA
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 05:00 - 23:59
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
25 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Level access to platforms, lifts to airport facilities. Ticket Office is step free. Wheelchair users can board trains with ease as the platforms are level with the trains.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No

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