London to Cardiff train with Great Western Rail

Sun, Dec 07
+ Add return
Great Western Rail
South Western Railway
first_great_western
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
Great Western Rail
South Western Railway
first_great_western
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Dec 07

Cheapest price

€77

Average price

€77

Fastest journey

1 h 48 m

Average duration

1 h 51 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 €77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €77.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave London for Cardiff on Sun, Dec 07, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 07 the direct trains cover the 211 km distance in an average of 1 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 48 m .

On Sun, Dec 07 the slowest trains will take 1 h 56 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 RailC27467
12:45PM1h49
London Paddington (PAD)
02:34PMCardiff Central (CDF)
€771One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailC27629
08:33AM1h56
London Paddington (PAD)
10:29AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€771One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailC27475
10:45AM1h48
London Paddington (PAD)
12:33PMCardiff Central (CDF)
€771One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailC27468
01:45PM1h54
London Paddington (PAD)
03:39PMCardiff Central (CDF)
€771One-way
0 transfers
Great Western RailC27559
11:45AM1h49
London Paddington (PAD)
01:34PMCardiff Central (CDF)
€771One-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 tomorrow, Sunday, December 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:49 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
great_westernC27629
On time
8:33 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h56
10:29 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernC27563
On time
9:31 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h57
11:28 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernC27475
On time
10:45 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h48
12:33 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernC27559
On time
11:45 AM London Paddington (PAD)
1h49
1:34 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernC27467
On time
12:45 PM London Paddington (PAD)
1h49
2:34 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)		0 transfersDirect
great_westernC27468
On time
1:45 PM London Paddington (PAD)
1h54
3:39 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.

Sun
Dec 07
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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.

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
$180 (€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
The distance by train from London to Cardiff is 131 miles (211 km).
Train ticket prices from London to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€38), while the average price is around $83 (€67).
The first train from London to Cardiff leaves at 12:07 AM.
The cheapest way to get from London to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
The last train from London to Cardiff leaves at 11:00 PM.
The train from London to Cardiff takes 1h 43m and runs 16 per day.
The train station in London that goes to Cardiff is London Paddington (PAD), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
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.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Cardiff.
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 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.
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.
There is no high speed train available from London to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from London to Cardiff

London
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in London is Acton Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Acton Central for your trip from London to Cardiff.
Acton CentralDiningATMAccessibilityWCBike Parking
Amenities at train station
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
address
Address
Churchfield Rd, London W3 6BS, UK
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
9 km
Acton Main LineParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Acton Main Line station, Horn Lane, Acton, Greater London, W3 9EH
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:40 - 10:40 Saturday 08:00 - 15:15 Sunday Closed
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
9 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Accessibility Category A. This station has step-free access to all platforms. Staff ramp assistance is always available. Accessible seating is available on platforms 3&4.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located in the stations ticket hall.
  • 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: On the paid side of the barrier in the stations ticket hall.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: An accessible toilet is located in the ticket hall on the paid side of the barrier. This toilet is operated with a radar key.
  • Baby changing facilities: No
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 Acton Main Line
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: No rail replacement bus services operate from this station.
Alexandra PalaceWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
address
Address
Alexandra Palace station, Station Road, Alexandra Park, Greater London, N22 7ST
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:15 - 13:0015:15 - 19:20 Saturday 08:45 - 15:45 Sunday Closed
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
9 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: YES
  • Accessible taxis: Yes
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: This is a Category C station: This station does not have step-free access. Assistance Meeting Point is in the Ticket Hall next to the taxi office.
  • Accessible taxis: Yes
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: All Great Northern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: A heated waiting room is available on platforms 3 & 4
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage location: Inside booking office, and opposite booking office
  • Storage CCTV: Yes

More options for your journey from London to Cardiff

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