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The cheapest and fastest trains from Nottingham to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for May 08
Cheapest price
$57
Average price
$104
Fastest journey
3 h 18 m
Average duration
3 h 29 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
214 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nottingham to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nottingham to Cardiff will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Nottingham for Cardiff on Fri, May 08, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 08 the direct trains cover the 214 km distance in an average of 3 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 18 m .
On Fri, May 08 the slowest trains will take 3 h 51 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.
3:07 PM3h19Nottingham6:26 PMCardiff$571One-way0 transfers- 7:07 AM3h18Nottingham10:25 AMCardiff$641One-way0 transfers
- 9:07 AM3h19Nottingham12:26 PMCardiff$661One-way0 transfers
- 8:07 AM3h18Nottingham11:25 AMCardiff$711One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 AM3h25Nottingham9:25 AMCardiff$821One-way0 transfers
- 8:07 AM3h18Nottingham11:25 AMCardiff$431One-way0 transfers
- 4:07 PM3h19Nottingham7:26 PMCardiff$1551One-way0 transfers
- 5:07 PM3h51Nottingham8:58 PMCardiff$1131One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Nottingham to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Nottingham to Cardiff 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 3h 17m. 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 $18, and a train costs an average of $37.
Distance: 132 miles (214 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$83 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 34m Average total duration 6h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Nottingham to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $35 (€28).
This is compared to other travel options from Nottingham to Cardiff:
A bus is $48 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nottingham to Cardiff costing on average $83 (€66).
The fastest way to travel from Nottingham to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 17m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Nottingham and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Nottingham to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $83 (€66) compared to roughly $60 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-22.50 (€-17.98). The journey takes 3h 17m versus 3h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Nottingham to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Nottingham to Cardiff trains for today, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C75248 | On time 8:07 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h18 | 11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 Y12468+C75196 · C72656+ P22622 | On time 8:16 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h24 | 11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 transfers | |
| Y12337+C75192+P22623 | On time 8:53 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h17 | 12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| C75251 | On time 9:07 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h19 | 12:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C51210+C75082+P22625 | On time 9:53 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h23 | 1:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| C75254 | On time 10:07 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h18 | 1:25 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 Nottingham to Cardiff 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.
Fri
May 08
May 08
Sat
May 09
May 09
Sun
May 10
May 10
Mon
May 11
May 11
Tue
May 12
May 12
Wed
May 13
May 13
Thu
May 14
May 14
Why should you book Nottingham to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Nottingham to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Nottingham to Cardiff.
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 Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Nottingham to Cardiff.
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 Nottingham to Cardiff.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Nottingham to Cardiff?
The best time to book your train from Nottingham to Cardiff is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Nottingham to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Cardiff.
Trains
from $75Buses
from $16Journey information
Overview: Train from Nottingham to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Nottingham to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€29) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 20:54. The fastest train covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 3h 7m.
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 $19 (€15)
Distance 132 miles (214 km) |
Average train duration 3h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€29) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 7m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 8:54 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 4 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 $19 (€15)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country from Nottingham to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Nottingham and Cardiff from $19 (€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 7m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€29)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 5m
Cheapest Price
$193 (€154)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Trains from Nottingham to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nottingham 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.
Train ticket prices from Nottingham to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€29), while the average price is around $83 (€66).
The train from Nottingham to Cardiff takes 3h 7m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Nottingham to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Nottingham to Cardiff is 132 miles (214 km).
The last train from Nottingham to Cardiff leaves at 8:54 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Nottingham to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Nottingham to Cardiff. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Nottingham to Cardiff.
The train station in Nottingham that goes to Cardiff is Nottingham station (NOT), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Nottingham to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
The train journey from Nottingham to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the picturesque English countryside, rolling hills, and charming towns along the way.
A day trip from Nottingham to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 7m. Trains run 6 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 Nottingham to Cardiff.
Since neither Nottingham nor Cardiff 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 include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Nottingham to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Nottingham to Cardiff
Nottingham
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Nottingham is Nottingham. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Nottingham for your trip from Nottingham to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 22:00 Saturday 05:00 - 22:00 Sunday 07:15 - 22:20
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a category A access station. There are lifts available to all platforms and there is level and ramp access to the concourse and ticket office/machines. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible public telephones: none
- Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on useful information poster at station.
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 and Platform 5/6. The National key toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 and Platform 5/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 & Platform 5/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle hub located on ground floor of multi-storey car park on Queens Road. Additional stands in secure compound adjacent to Platform 1 on Station Road.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Nottingham
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses will pick up and drop off from Carrington Street, at the front of the station.
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 Nottingham.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
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
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
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)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Bay
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Most popular train connections from Nottingham
More options for your journey from Nottingham to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Nottingham
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