Nottingham to Cardiff train with CrossCountry

Thu, Aug 06
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Nottingham to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

$38

Average price

$136

Fastest journey

3 h 17 m

Average duration

3 h 18 m

Trains per day

11

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 $136 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.

Fast trains

Of the 11 trains that leave Nottingham for Cardiff on Thu, Aug 06, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 214 km distance in an average of 3 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 17 m .

On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 19 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.

  • CrossCountryG01095
    7:04 AM3h21
    Nottingham station (NOT)
    10:25 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $381One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01098
    8:07 AM3h18
    Nottingham station (NOT)
    11:25 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $491One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01102
    10:07 AM3h18
    Nottingham station (NOT)
    1:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $491One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01101
    9:07 AM3h19
    Nottingham station (NOT)
    12:26 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $491One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00742 · W29847+Transport for WalesG39592
    6:00 AM3h59
    Nottingham station (NOT)
    9:59 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $1081One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus 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 $17. 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 $17, and a train costs an average of $31.

Distance: 132 miles (214 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$82

Average price

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$59

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

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

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 $32.

This is compared to other travel options from Nottingham to Cardiff:

A bus is $50 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nottingham to Cardiff costing on average $82.

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 6h 4m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Nottingham and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
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 $82 compared to roughly $59 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-22.62. 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, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG01098
On time
8:07 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h18
11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
East Midlands RailwayC21829+CrossCountryW29925 · G01138+Great Western RailwayG14938
On time
8:16 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h24
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3 transfers
East Midlands RailwayC21335+CrossCountryG01140+Great Western RailwayW34617
On time
8:53 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h17
12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01101
On time
9:07 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h19
12:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
East Midlands RailwayC21334+CrossCountryW29862+Great Western RailwayG14939
On time
9:53 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h23
1:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01102
On time
10:07 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h18
1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 transfersDirect
Thursday, August 6
CrossCountryG00742 · G010926:00 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h25
9:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00742 · W29847+Transport for WalesG395926:00 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h59
9:59 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
East Midlands RailwayC21337+CrossCountryG01133+Great Western RailwayG149356:49 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h23
10:12 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
CrossCountryG010957:04 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h21
10:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
East Midlands RailwayC21336+CrossCountryG01135+Great Western RailwayG149377:51 AM Nottingham station (NOT)
3h18
11:09 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers

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 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.

Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12

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 train and bus 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 train and bus 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Nottingham to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Nottingham to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 but you can travel from only $17 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 $17
Distance
132 miles (214 km)
Average train duration
3h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
$31
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 $17

Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country from Nottingham to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Nottingham and Cardiff from $17. 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
$31
CrossCountry frequency
6 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$194
Cross Country frequency
12 a day

Complete guide to Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Nottingham to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31, while the average price is around $82.
The train from Nottingham to Cardiff takes 3h 7m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Nottingham to Cardiff is 132 miles (214 km).
The first train from Nottingham to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
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 CrossCountry, 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 $17.
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

Most Nottingham to Cardiff trains use the Nottingham to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Bay. Use this guide to compare Nottingham and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Nottingham
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Nottingham station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Nottingham to Cardiff leave from Nottingham. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Nottingham city centre at Nottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ.
NottinghamNottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ+44 800 200 6060ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Nottingham from Nottingham city centre

Bus9B, 8, 11, 6, 10, 9, 11C, 10C, 10X, 7, 5, 5A, 11B, 12, 12C, 12E, 10A · 3m · every ~58 min
48, 1, 3, 48X, 1A, 48A, 3A, N4, 1B, 1E · 4m · every ~24 min
Kc · 5m · $5 · every ~12 min
20 · 10m
TramTram · 4m · $5 · every ~58 min

Nottingham train station facilities and services

Nottingham has practical services for this route, including 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 Nottingham.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Nottingham.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Nottingham. Information desks are 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.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Nottingham: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Nottingham: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Nottingham: 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.

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