- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with fine art, natural history, and geology collections in the city center. A top cultural stop in Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Paignton to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jul 01
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$52
Fastest journey
2 h 55 m
Average duration
3 h 6 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
119 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Paignton to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Paignton to Cardiff will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Paignton to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
G14922 · G1549810:55 AM3h21Paignton station (PGN)2:16 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way1 transfer
G00865+G1493910:14 AM3h02Paignton station (PGN)1:16 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way1 transfer- Y41873+G00869_G01067+G149388:45 AM2h55Paignton station (PGN)11:40 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way2 transfers
- G15229+G01069+W346189:16 AM3h21Paignton station (PGN)12:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way2 transfers
- Y80248+G01073+W3541710:41 AM2h55Paignton station (PGN)1:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way2 transfers
- Y41873+G00869_G01067+G149388:45 AM2h55Paignton station (PGN)11:40 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way2 transfers
- Y80248+G01073+W3541710:41 AM2h55Paignton station (PGN)1:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way2 transfers
- G00865+G1493910:14 AM3h02Paignton station (PGN)1:16 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way1 transfer
- Y80251+G01075+W3462411:20 AM3h17Paignton station (PGN)2:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way2 transfers
- G15229+G01069+W346189:16 AM3h21Paignton station (PGN)12:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$521One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Paignton to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Paignton to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 53m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, and a train costs an average of $61.
Distance: 73 miles (119 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$93 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 23m Average total duration Fastest 2h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration 4h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 24m 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 Paignton to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Paignton to Cardiff:
A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Paignton to Cardiff costing on average $93 (€76).
The fastest way to travel from Paignton to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 53m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Paignton and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Paignton 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 $93 (€76) compared to roughly $47 (€39) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-45.40 (€-37.31). The journey takes 2h 53m versus 2h 24m 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
Paignton to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Paignton to Cardiff trains for today, Tuesday, June 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 10:14 AM Paignton | 2h35 | 12:49 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
.png) | 10:55 AM Paignton | 3h21 | 2:16 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 1:55 PM Paignton | 3h27 | 5:22 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 2:38 PM Paignton | 3h11 | 5:49 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 6:51 PM Paignton | 3h26 | 10:17 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 6:51 PM Paignton | 3h26 | 10:17 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 PM Paignton | 2h46 | 10:56 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 9:09 PM Paignton | 9h12 | 6:21 AM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Paignton 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.
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Why should you book Paignton to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Paignton to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Paignton to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Paignton 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Paignton to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Paignton to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Paignton to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Paignton to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Paignton to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€50) but you can travel from only $38 (€31) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 73 miles (119 km) distance in 3h 31m.
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 $38 (€31)
Distance 73 miles (119 km) |
Average train duration 2h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 (€50) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 31m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 56 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 $38 (€31)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Paignton to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Paignton and Cardiff from $38 (€31). 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 Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
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
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 43m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€52)
CrossCountry frequency
4 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
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$189 (€155)
Cross Country frequency
3 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 21m
Cheapest Price
$103 (€85)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
4 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
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum showing Welsh historic buildings, crafts, and daily life. One of Wales’ most important heritage attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industries, and urban development through accessible local stories and objects.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with striking public buildings, boardwalk-style walks, and some of the city’s most photographed views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle with riverside paths, mature trees, and easy walking routes from the city center.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Historic Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades that define central Cardiff’s character and are popular for strolling and photography.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort foods and strongly associated with Cardiff and South Wales.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Toast topped with a savoury sauce of melted cheese, mustard, and ale or milk. It is a classic Welsh dish often served as a snack or light meal in pubs and cafes.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is a distinctive meat-free dish from South Wales and commonly found on local menus.
Pasture Cardiff
Established steak restaurant known for quality meat, wood-fired cooking, and an energetic dining room. A strong choice for Welsh beef and special-occasion meals.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
A respected fine-dining venue serving polished British dishes in a unique setting, known for professional service and a memorable experience.
The Potted Pig
Well-known restaurant in a former bank vault, popular for modern Welsh and British cooking, especially pork dishes, with a stylish but relaxed atmosphere.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Meals and transport are reasonable, while central hotels cost more on weekends and during major events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 55+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up for taxis. Tipping is not expected in pubs or for takeaway.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.50
To the city center
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless card is available on Transport for Wales rail services in the South Wales Metro area, including Cardiff Central.
- For Cardiff Bus, buying tickets in the Cardiff Bus app is usually the easiest option; check the fare zone before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Paignton to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Paignton 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 Paignton to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€50), while the average price is around $93 (€76).
The train from Paignton to Cardiff takes 3h 31m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Paignton to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Paignton to Cardiff is 73 miles (119 km).
The last train from Paignton to Cardiff leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Paignton to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Paignton to Cardiff. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Paignton to Cardiff.
The train station in Paignton that goes to Cardiff is Paignton station (PGN), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Paignton to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
Yes, the train journey from Paignton to Cardiff is considered scenic as it offers views of the South Devon coastline, the picturesque countryside, and the Severn Estuary as you approach Cardiff.
A day trip from Paignton to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 31m. There are 6 trains per day, covering a distance of 73 miles (119 km).
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 Paignton to Cardiff.
Since neither Paignton 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 Paignton 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 Paignton to Cardiff
Most Paignton to Cardiff trains use the Paignton to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cathays. Use this guide to compare Paignton and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Paignton
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Paignton station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Paignton to Cardiff leave from Paignton. The station is from Paignton city centre at Paignton station, Station Square, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 5EF.
PaigntonPaignton station, Station Square, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 5EF+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Paignton from Paignton city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesFrom the front of the station
Paignton train station facilities and services
Paignton has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Paignton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Paignton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Paignton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Paignton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Paignton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category B1 Station Step free access available to both platforms, access between platforms via level crossing to the north of the station. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: The public phones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Contact local taxi companies for details of accessible taxis or member of staff, 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.
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
City-centre transport
Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cathays train station facilities and services
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service, 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. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Most popular train connections from Paignton
More options for your journey from Paignton to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Paignton
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