Plymouth to Cardiff train with Great Western Rail

Sat, Dec 06
+ Add return
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
Cross Country
first_great_western
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
Cross Country
first_great_western
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Dec 07

Cheapest price

€95

Average price

€104

Fastest journey

3 h 7 m

Average duration

3 h 20 m

Trains per day

5

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 €104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €95.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Plymouth for Cardiff on Sun, Dec 07, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 07 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 7 m .

On Sun, Dec 07 the slowest trains will take 3 h 32 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.

CrossCountry
11:00AM3h32
Plymouth
02:32PMCardiff
951One-way
0 transfers
Great Western Rail
08:43AM3h14
Plymouth
11:57AMCardiff
1001One-way
0 transfers
Great Western Rail
07:27AM3h31
Plymouth
10:58AMCardiff
1091One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
10:27AM3h07
Plymouth
01:34PMCardiff
1091One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
08:27AM3h14
Plymouth
11:41AMCardiff
1091One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Plymouth to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €13, and a train costs an average of €35.

Distance: 87 miles (141 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€98

Average price

€21

Average price

Cheapest

3h 40m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 14m

Average total duration

4h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Great Western Rail

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Plymouth to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Cardiff trains for today, Saturday, December 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:12 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
great_western4:27 AM Plymouth
4h46
9:13 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
great_western7:27 AM Plymouth
3h51
11:18 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
cross_country10:27 AM Plymouth
3h09
1:36 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
great_western11:27 AM Plymouth
3h51
3:18 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
great_western5:48 PM Plymouth
3h26
9:14 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

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.

Sun
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13

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 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€35) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:42, the last at 22:33. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 3h 7m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $16 (€13)
Distance
87 miles (141 km)
Average train duration
3h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$44 (€35)
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 7m
First train
04:42
Last train
22:33
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 $16 (€13)

Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western from Plymouth to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Plymouth and Cardiff from $16 (€13). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Rail

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 14m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€89)
Great Western Rail frequency
3 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

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€56)
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 49m
Cheapest Price
$226 (€182)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day

first_great_western

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
$124 (€100)
first_great_western frequency
13 a day

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
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.
Train ticket prices from Plymouth to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44 (€35), while the average price is around $122 (€98).
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.
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
A day trip from Plymouth to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 7m. Trains run 6 times per day.
The train from Plymouth to Cardiff takes 3h 7m and runs 6 per day.
There is no high speed 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).
Yes, you can take the train from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Plymouth to Cardiff. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Great Western Rail, first_great_western.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to 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.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Cardiff is 87 miles (141 km).
The first train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 4:42 AM.
The last train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 10:33 PM.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Plymouth to Cardiff

Plymouth
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Plymouth is Dockyard. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dockyard for your trip from Plymouth to Cardiff.
DockyardParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. 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: No
Public transit options for Dockyard
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the bus stops on Keyham Road (B3396) near the turning to Keat Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
TaxisTaxis
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: adjacent to shelter on platform 1
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Keyham
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus Stops on Saltash Road, next to HMS Drake Barracks.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:25 - 20:00 Saturday 05:20 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:30
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: WHSmith and Spar Supermarket
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
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 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4, Platform 7 and adjacent ticket counters.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Within accessible wc's
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Platforms 3 and 4
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Plymouth
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone