- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 23
Cheapest price on Oct 23
$135
Average ticket price on Oct 23
$135
Fastest journey on Oct 23
3 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Oct 23
3 h 10 m
Trains on Oct 23
9
Distance
141 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Plymouth to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Plymouth to Cardiff will cost around $135 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $135.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Plymouth to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
G01073+
W3541710:27 AM3h09Plymouth station (PLY)1:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer- G01064+G149367:27 AM3h10Plymouth station (PLY)10:37 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
- W34555 · C488216:55 AM3h22Plymouth station (PLY)10:17 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
- G00869_G01067+G149388:27 AM3h13Plymouth station (PLY)11:40 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
- G01069+W346189:27 AM3h10Plymouth station (PLY)12:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
- G01073+W3541710:27 AM3h09Plymouth station (PLY)1:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
- G01064+G149367:27 AM3h10Plymouth station (PLY)10:37 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
- G01069+W346189:27 AM3h10Plymouth station (PLY)12:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
- G01074+W3462411:27 AM3h10Plymouth station (PLY)2:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
- G00869_G01067+G149388:27 AM3h13Plymouth station (PLY)11:40 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1351One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Plymouth to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Plymouth to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 (€36) but you can travel from only $14 (€12) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 2h 36m.
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 $14 (€12)
Distance 87 miles (141 km) |
Average train duration 2h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€36) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 36m |
First train 4:54 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $14 (€12)
Frequently asked questions about your Plymouth to Cardiff trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Train ticket prices from Plymouth to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43 (€36), while the average price is around $87 (€73).
The train from Plymouth to Cardiff takes 2h 36m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Cardiff is 87 miles (141 km).
The first train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 4:54 AM.
The last train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Live departures
Plymouth to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G01062+G14934 | On time 6:20 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h16 | 9:36 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| W34555 · C48821 | 6:55 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h22 | 10:17 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G01064+G14936 | On time 7:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h10 | 10:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G00869_G01067+G14938 | 8:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h13 | 11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| W34559 · G15496 | 8:35 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h42 | 12:17 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G01069+W34618 | On time 9:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h10 | 12:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G15203 · G14939+G00865 | On time 9:42 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h34 | 1:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| G01073+W35417 | On time 10:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h09 | 1:36 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G01074+W34624 | On time 11:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h10 | 2:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Plymouth to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Plymouth 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 Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway from Plymouth to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Plymouth and Cardiff from $14 (€12). 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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 36m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$43 (€36)
CrossCountry frequency
5 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 Great Western Railway Duration
2h 38m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$66 (€56)
Great Western Railway frequency
1 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Plymouth and Cardiff
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no high speed train available from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to Cardiff.
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.
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 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.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
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.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card and mobile payments on buses. Exact fare is not needed if you pay contactless.
- For rail travel around Cardiff, use the official Transport for Wales app for tickets and live times.
Plan your visit to Cardiff
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cardiff.
The train journey from Plymouth to Cardiff offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along the South Devon coast and through the picturesque landscapes of the Severn Estuary. Passengers can enjoy glimpses of rolling hills, charming villages, and coastal vistas.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Plymouth to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Plymouth to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Plymouth to Cardiff
Most Plymouth to Cardiff trains use the Plymouth to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Plymouth and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Plymouth
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Plymouth station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Plymouth to Cardiff leave from Plymouth. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Plymouth city centre at Plymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB.
PlymouthPlymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Plymouth from Plymouth city centre
Bus13, 2, 170 · 4m · $3 · every ~11 min
Plymouth train station facilities and services
Plymouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Plymouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Plymouth. ATMs are available at Plymouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Plymouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Plymouth: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Plymouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Plymouth: 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 all platforms via lifts and the station subway. 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 may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
DevonportDevonport station, Portland Road, Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 4QN
City-centre transport
Getting to Devonport from Plymouth city centre
Devonport is 2 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainExeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Penzance, Plymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Liskeard · 3m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusDc7 · 8m · $3
Dc7 · 9m · $3
21, 34, 21A · 13m · $5 · every ~23 min
Devonport train station facilities and services
Devonport has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Devonport.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Devonport: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Devonport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Devonport: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. 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 taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, 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 · $3 · 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.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $3 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, 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 Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, 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 Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Train stations for Plymouth to Cardiff
Check train stations information for Plymouth and Cardiff, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Cardiff is Plymouth, which connects to Cardiff Central.
Most popular train connections from Plymouth
More options for your journey from Plymouth to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Plymouth
Most popular train connections to Cardiff
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