Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) train with CrossCountry

Fri, Jun 19
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CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF)

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$142

Average price

$195

Fastest journey

3 h 7 m

Average duration

3 h 8 m

Trains per day

12

Distance

177 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) will cost around $195 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Avanti West CoastW34116+CrossCountryG01161
    4:52 PM3h14
    Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    8:06 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $1421One-way
    1 transfer
  • Avanti West CoastC01361+CrossCountryG01124
    5:52 PM3h34
    Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    9:26 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $1421One-way
    1 transfer
  • Avanti West CoastC01361+CrossCountryW29909+Great Western RailwayW34646
    5:52 PM3h10
    Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    9:02 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $1421One-way
    2 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW34077+CrossCountryG01102
    9:52 AM3h33
    Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    1:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $1421One-way
    1 transfer
  • Avanti West CoastW34260+CrossCountryG01101
    8:52 AM3h34
    Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    12:26 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $1671One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $34.

Distance: 109 miles (177 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$108

Average price

$25

Average price

Cheapest

$47

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 15m

Average total duration

6h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 1m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) is a bus with an average price of $25 (€20).

This is compared to other travel options from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF):

A bus is $83 (€68) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) costing on average $108 (€89).

The fastest way to travel from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) is by train with an average journey time of 2h 57m.

Other travel options to Cardiff Central (CDF) take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 45m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Milton Keynes Central (MKC) and Cardiff Central (CDF) including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) 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 4m sooner (2h 57m by train vs 3h 1m by car). Tickets start at around $108 (€89) compared to roughly $47 (€39) 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.

Live departures

Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) train times

The table below shows live departures for Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) trains for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry4:52 PM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h22
8:14 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Friday, June 19
Avanti West CoastW34205+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayG149388:17 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h23
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
CrossCountryG01101+Avanti West CoastW342608:52 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h34
12:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW34117+Great Western RailwayW34617+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington8:57 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h13
12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33878+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayW346189:29 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h08
12:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
CrossCountryG01102+Avanti West CoastW340779:52 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h33
1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW33952+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayG149399:55 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h21
1:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW34165+Great Western RailwayG14942+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington4:29 PM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h09
7:38 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
CrossCountryG01161+Avanti West CoastW341164:52 PM Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
3h14
8:06 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) 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.

Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
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Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

Why should you book Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:05, the last at 21:17. The fastest train covers the 109 miles (177 km) distance in 3h 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 $18 (€15)
Distance
109 miles (177 km)
Average train duration
2h 57m
Cheapest ticket price
$34 (€28)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 8m
First train
6:05 AM
Last train
9:17 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 $18 (€15)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Milton Keynes Central (MKC) and Cardiff Central (CDF) from $18 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

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 Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€86)
Great Western Railway frequency
4 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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
West Midlands Trains frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 52m
Cheapest Price
$270 (€221)
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF)

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) 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 Central (CDF), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34 (€28), while the average price is around $108 (€89).
The train from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) takes 3h 8m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) leaves at 6:05 AM.
The distance by train from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) is 109 miles (177 km).
The last train from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) leaves at 9:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
There is no direct train service currently available from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Milton Keynes Central to Cardiff Central offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through the picturesque Chiltern Hills and scenic countryside, making parts of the trip visually appealing.
A day trip from Milton Keynes Central to Cardiff Central is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 8m. The distance is 109 miles (177 km) with a frequency of 7 trains per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
Since neither Milton Keynes Central (MKC) nor Cardiff Central (CDF) 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 Cardiff Central (CDF) include Swansea, London, Newport, Bridgend, Swindon.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) 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.
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 Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF)

Most Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) trains use the Milton Keynes Central to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Milton Keynes Central (MKC) and Cardiff Central (CDF) train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Milton Keynes
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Milton Keynes CentralMilton Keynes Central station, 302 Eldergate, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 1LA+44 3301235247ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Milton Keynes Central from Milton Keynes city centre

Milton Keynes Central is 1 km from Milton Keynes city centre. Public transport options include:

BusMk1, X5 · 7m · $2 · every ~11 min

Milton Keynes Central train station facilities and services

Milton Keynes Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Milton Keynes Central.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Milton Keynes Central.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Milton Keynes Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Milton Keynes Central: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Milton Keynes Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Milton Keynes Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible - situated on the concourse and at the front of the station outside the main entrance, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

More options for your journey from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF)

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Cardiff Central (CDF) and Milton Keynes Central (MKC)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomMilton Keynes Central (MKC) to Cardiff Central (CDF) train

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