Plymouth to Cardiff train with CrossCountry

Tue, Sep 08
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$131

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$133

Fastest journey on Sep 08

3 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

3 h 44 m

Trains on Sep 08

2

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 $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $131.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 08, we found 2 trains from Plymouth to Cardiff, including 2 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 3 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .

On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 4 h 17 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.

  • Great Western Railway
    8:00 AM4h17
    Plymouth
    12:17 PMCardiff
    $1311One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:27 AM3h10
    Plymouth
    11:37 AMCardiff
    $1351One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Plymouth to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $21 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 37m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, while a train costs an average of $67.

Distance: 87 miles (141 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$67

Average price

$21

Average price

Cheapest

$55

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 37m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 19m

Average total duration

4h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 50m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 Plymouth to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $21 (€17).

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

A bus is $47 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Plymouth to Cardiff costing on average $67 (€54).

The fastest way to travel from Plymouth to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 7m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Plymouth and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth 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 $67 (€54) compared to roughly $55 (€45) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-11.92 (€-9.63). The journey takes 3h 7m versus 2h 50m 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

Plymouth to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western Railway8:00 AM Plymouth
4h17
12:17 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry8:27 AM Plymouth
3h10
11:37 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Plymouth 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.

Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14

Why should you book Plymouth to Cardiff trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more 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, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) 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, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Plymouth to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Plymouth to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€30) 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 3h 9m.

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
3h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
$38 (€30)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 9m
First train
4:54 AM
Last train
10:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Mon
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)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Plymouth to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) 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
3h 9m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$38 (€30)
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
3h 42m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$111 (€90)
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 Cross Country Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
$225 (€182)
Cross Country frequency
11 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
$188 (€152)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 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 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Plymouth to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€30), while the average price is around $67 (€54).
The train from Plymouth to Cardiff takes 3h 9m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 4:54 AM.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Cardiff is 87 miles (141 km).
The last train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Plymouth to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to Cardiff.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Cardiff is Plymouth station (PLY), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€12).
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.
A day trip from Plymouth to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 9m. 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 Plymouth to Cardiff.
Since neither Plymouth 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 Plymouth 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 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 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Plymouth from Plymouth city centre

Bus13, 2, 170 · 4m · $2 · 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 4QNParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
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 · $1 · every ~2 min
BusDc7 · 8m · $2
Dc7 · 9m · $2
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.

St Budeaux Ferry RoadSt Budeaux Ferry Road station, Wolseley Road, St Budeaux, Plymouth, Devon, PL5 1JJ+44 345 700 0125ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to St Budeaux Ferry Road from Plymouth city centre

St Budeaux Ferry Road is 4 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPlymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Penzance, Exeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Liskeard, London Paddington - Penzance · 9m · $2 · every ~2 min
Bus43, 50, 43A, 16A · 16m · $5 · every ~25 min
16A, 21, 21A · 16m · $5 · every ~4 min
12, 12A, 10, 11 · 17m · $5 · every ~8 min
43, 50, 43A · 19m · $5 · every ~29 min
21A, 21, 16A · 24m · $5 · every ~20 min

St Budeaux Ferry Road train station facilities and services

St Budeaux Ferry Road 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 St Budeaux Ferry Road.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at St Budeaux Ferry Road: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at St Budeaux Ferry Road: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at St Budeaux Ferry Road: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step Free Category B2 - This station has a degree of step free access, however both platforms can only be accessed via steep ramps with limited handrails for support. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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