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Major art museum in Cardiff with Welsh and international collections; worth the trip for high-quality exhibitions and free admission.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Porthcawl
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$95
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$95
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h 16 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 16 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
248 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London to Porthcawl is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London to Porthcawl will cost around $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from London to Porthcawl, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 248 km distance in an average of 2 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 16 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 16 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.
8:45 PM2h16London11:01 PMPorthcawl$951One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 PM2h16London11:01 PMPorthcawl$951One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for London to Porthcawl
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London to Porthcawl among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 11m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, while a train costs an average of $93.
Distance: 154 miles (248 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$93 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest | $64 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 9m Average total duration 4h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 21m 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 to Porthcawl is a bus with an average price of $42.
This is compared to other travel options from London to Porthcawl:
A bus is $51 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London to Porthcawl costing on average $93.
The fastest way to travel from London to Porthcawl is by train with an average journey time of 2h 41m.
Other travel options to Porthcawl take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 39m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London and Porthcawl including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Porthcawl 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 40m sooner (2h 41m by train vs 3h 21m by car). Tickets start at around $93 compared to roughly $64 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.
Compare prices and tickets London to Porthcawl 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 to Porthcawl trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from London to Porthcawl.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Porthcawl.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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 to Porthcawl.
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 to Porthcawl.
Journey information
Overview: Train from London to Porthcawl
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from London to Porthcawl run on average 13 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 but you can travel from only $14 by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:28, the last at 22:49. The fastest train covers the 154 miles (248 km) distance in 2h 8m.
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 $14
Distance 154 miles (248 km) |
Average train duration 2h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 8m |
First train 4:28 AM |
Last train 10:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 84 days |
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 $14
Train companies: Great Western Railway from London to Porthcawl trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between London and Porthcawl from $14. 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 Great Western Railway Duration
2h 8m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$59
Great Western Railway frequency
10 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
Complete guide to Porthcawl
Things to do in Porthcawl
Discover the best of Porthcawl — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Porthcawl trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Museum beside St Fagans Castle presenting Welsh life through reconstructed buildings, crafts, and extensive open-air collections.
- Recommended
Porthcawl Museum
Volunteer-run local museum covering Porthcawl’s maritime, social, and holiday history through artefacts, photographs, and changing displays.
- Must visit
Rest Bay
Wide sandy beach and promenade at the heart of town, popular for seaside walks, views, events, and easy access to harbour landmarks.
- Must visit
Wales Coast Path in Porthcawl
Coastal walking route passing beaches, cliffs, and sea viewpoints, making it one of the best ways to experience the Porthcawl shoreline.
- Recommended
Porthcawl Promenade
Classic seafront promenade linking beaches and the harbour, ideal for an easy walk with open views, benches, and storm-watching spots.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Bara Brith
A rich Welsh fruit loaf served sliced with butter. A classic teatime treat across South Wales and a staple in local cafes and homes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Cakes
Traditional Welsh cakes cooked on a griddle, lightly spiced and dotted with currants. Popular in seaside towns for a warm sweet snack.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Fresh cockles gathered on the South Wales coast, often served simply with vinegar or on breakfast plates. A classic regional seafood delicacy.
Isabella's
Well-known local Italian restaurant with a long-standing reputation for pasta, pizza and friendly service in a casual town-centre atmosphere.
Beale's Fish And Chips
Popular seafront fish and chip restaurant known for fresh seafood, generous portions and relaxed coastal dining near the promenade.
The Waterfront
Established pub and restaurant by the sea serving classic Welsh and British dishes, steaks and Sunday roasts in a traditional setting.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town; lodging is seasonal, dining is mid-priced, and local transit costs are similar to other Welsh coastal destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35-60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
FAQs: Trains from London to Porthcawl
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Porthcawl 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 Porthcawl, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from London to Porthcawl can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $59, while the average price is around $93.
The train from London to Porthcawl takes 2h 8m and runs 13 per day.
The first train from London to Porthcawl leaves at 4:28 AM.
The distance by train from London to Porthcawl is 154 miles (248 km).
The last train from London to Porthcawl leaves at 10:49 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London to Porthcawl.
Yes, there is a direct train from London to Porthcawl. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Porthcawl.
The train station in London that goes to Porthcawl is London Paddington (PAD), which connects to Bridgend station (BGN).
The cheapest way to get from London to Porthcawl is by bus, with a cost of around $14.
Yes, the train journey from London to Porthcawl offers scenic views, particularly as you travel through the Welsh countryside, with rolling hills, picturesque villages, and coastal landscapes near the destination.
A day trip from London to Porthcawl is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 8m and the distance is 154 miles (248 km). However, there are 17 trains available per day.
Two to three days are usually sufficient to explore Porthcawl's beaches, local attractions, and enjoy its coastal charm.
Yes, you can take the train from London to Porthcawl.
Since neither London nor Porthcawl 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 Porthcawl include Cardiff, Newport, Cwmbran, Merthyr Tydfil, Reading.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Porthcawl 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 Porthcawl, travelers should be mindful of typical coastal safety concerns such as strong tides and slippery rocks when visiting beaches. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting visitors, but standard precautions like safeguarding personal belongings and being cautious with unsolicited offers are advisable.
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 to Porthcawl
Most London to Porthcawl trains use the London Paddington to Bridgend station pair. Use this guide to compare London and Porthcawl train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Porthcawl
London PaddingtonPraed Street, London, Greater London, W2 1HQ, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to London Paddington from London city centre
TrainElizabeth · 7m · $2 · every ~21 min
BusN118, N18 · 21m · $5 · every ~6 min
36 · 31m · $28 · every ~29 min
N205 · 32m · $5 · every ~2 min
46 · 1h 22m · $2 · every ~19 min
SubwayBakerloo · 12m · $5 · every ~65 min
London Paddington train station facilities and services
London Paddington has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: 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
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located next to the ticket office.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open 24/7. Information desks are located near Platform 1.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located near the taxi stand beside Platform 11. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London Paddington: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London Paddington: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London Paddington: Wheelchair access, escalators, elevators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hilton London Paddington, Mercure London Paddington Hotel, The Pilgrm.
London WaterlooLondon Waterloo station, Station Approach, London, Greater London., SE1 8SW+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to London Waterloo from London city centre
London Waterloo is 1 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus139 · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
SubwayNorthern · 3m · $1 · every ~86 min
London Waterloo train station facilities and services
London Waterloo has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at London Waterloo.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at London Waterloo. ATMs are available at London Waterloo.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at London Waterloo. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London Waterloo: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London Waterloo: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London Waterloo: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There is step free access from the main concourse to all platforms, shops and facilities. Step free exits are exit 1 (Station approach), exit 2 (with a lift to Waterloo Road and lift access to the London Underground Jubilee line), and exit 3 for taxis and onward travel towards the South Bank, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available from the taxi rank on Cab Road / Station Approach, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket machines are located at various locations on the main concourse and are accessible to wheelchair users, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
London VictoriaLondon Victoria station, Victoria Street, London, Greater London, SW1V 1JU+44 3450774224
City-centre transport
Getting to London Victoria from London city centre
London Victoria is 1 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus24 · 8m · $2 · every ~25 min
148 · 9m · $2 · every ~30 min
38, N38 · 10m · $2 · every ~46 min
390 · 25m · $2 · every ~26 min
26, N26 · 28m · $5 · every ~27 min
A8 · 37m · $1 · every ~10 min
SubwayCircle, District · 5m · $2 · every ~108 min
London Victoria train station facilities and services
London Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at London Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at London Victoria. ATMs are available at London Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at London Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There is step free access at London Victoria Rail Station to the Victoria Line on the Underground. This can be accessed via the Cardinal Place entrance to the underground, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Main concourse, Accessible taxis: Available on request Taxi rank outside main station entrance, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from London to Porthcawl
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Porthcawl and London
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