- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Penzance to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Penzance to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a train costs an average of $44.
Distance: 139 miles (224 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$131 Average price | $36 Average price Cheapest | $78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 56m Average total duration Fastest 5h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 24m Average total duration 8h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m 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 Penzance to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $36 (€30).
This is compared to other travel options from Penzance to Cardiff:
A bus is $95 (€77) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Penzance to Cardiff costing on average $131 (€107).
The fastest way to travel from Penzance to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 5h 26m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Penzance and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Penzance 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 $131 (€107) compared to roughly $78 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-53.21 (€-43.55). The journey takes 5h 26m versus 3h 58m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Penzance 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 Penzance to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Penzance to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Penzance 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 Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Penzance 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 Penzance 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 Penzance to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Penzance to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Penzance to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:03, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 139 miles (224 km) distance in 5h 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 $20 (€16)
Distance 139 miles (224 km) |
Average train duration 5h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 7m |
First train 5:03 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 35 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 $20 (€16)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Penzance to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Penzance and Cardiff from $20 (€16). 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
5h 7m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€78)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 7m
Cheapest Price
$269 (€220)
Cross Country frequency
1 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 13m
Cheapest Price
$216 (€177)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
9 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 showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with promenades, public buildings, and popular photo-friendly views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park ideal for riverside walks, greenery, and easy access from the castle.
- Must visit
Cardiff Market Arcade Quarter
Network of historic Victorian and Edwardian arcades prized for architecture and local independent shops.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
A classic Welsh dish of toasted bread topped with a savory cheese sauce, often seasoned with mustard or ale. It is a staple in pubs and cafes across Cardiff.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is especially associated with South Wales.
Pasture Cardiff
Well-known steakhouse in central Cardiff, praised for quality Welsh beef, polished service, and a lively modern atmosphere.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Highly regarded fine-dining venue serving well-presented British dishes in a unique and memorable setting.
Madeira Restaurante
Long-running Portuguese restaurant popular for grilled meat, seafood, and generous portions in a warm, traditional setting.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.
TfW
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.60
To the city center
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tap in and out with contactless payment on Transport for Wales rail services where available; always use the same card or device for the journey.
- On many local buses in Cardiff, you can buy tickets with contactless card payment, but carry a backup payment method as acceptance can vary by operator.
FAQs: Trains from Penzance to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Penzance 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 Penzance to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44 (€36), while the average price is around $131 (€107).
The train from Penzance to Cardiff takes 5h 7m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Penzance to Cardiff leaves at 5:03 AM.
The distance by train from Penzance to Cardiff is 139 miles (224 km).
The last train from Penzance to Cardiff leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Penzance to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Penzance to Cardiff. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Penzance to Cardiff.
The train station in Penzance that goes to Cardiff is Penzance station (PNZ), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Penzance to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The Penzance to Cardiff train journey offers scenic views, including coastal landscapes along the Cornish Riviera, rolling countryside in Devon, and glimpses of the Severn Estuary as you approach Cardiff.
A day trip from Penzance to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 7m each way. Additionally, the distance is 139 miles (224 km), and there are 5 trains 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 Penzance to Cardiff.
Since neither Penzance 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Penzance 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 Penzance to Cardiff
Penzance
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Penzance is Penzance. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Penzance for your trip from Penzance to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:05 - 20:10 Saturday 06:15 - 18:10 Sunday 08:45 - 17:30
Parking
- Car Park: Winter Prices
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A station - This station has step free access to the platforms. 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 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
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Shoreline bed and breakfast by the sea
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Penzance
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: The Bus Station adjacent to 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 Penzance.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar 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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information 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.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Most popular train connections from Penzance
More options for your journey from Penzance to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Penzance
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