PORTSMOUTH to CARDIFF train from $18 with Great Western Railway

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Portsmouth to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 16

Cheapest price on Oct 16

$106

Average ticket price on Oct 16

$150

Fastest journey on Oct 16

3 h 18 m

Average journey duration on Oct 16

3 h 23 m

Trains on Oct 16

Distance

164 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff will cost around $150 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $106.

Fast trains

On Fri, Oct 16, we found 6 trains from Portsmouth to Cardiff, including 3 direct services.

On Fri, Oct 16 the direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 3 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 18 m .

On Fri, Oct 16 the slowest trains will take 3 h 36 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.

G15009
10:27 AM3h18
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
1:45 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1061One-way
0 transfers
G15005
8:27 AM3h19
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
11:46 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1061One-way
0 transfers
G15007
9:27 AM3h22
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
12:49 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1061One-way
0 transfers
G15128 · W34618+L79592
9:19 AM3h18
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
12:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1751One-way
2 transfers
C03050 · W35417+L79940
10:00 AM3h36
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
1:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1751One-way
2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Cardiff

United Kingdom

Trains from Portsmouth to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $41 but you can travel from only $18 by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 2h 54m.

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 $18

Distance

101 miles (164 km)

Average train duration

3h 14m

Cheapest ticket price

$41

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

2h 54m

First train

4:25 AM

Last train

9:20 PM

Cheapest Month

Jul

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sun

Least Busy Day

Fri

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $18

Live departures

Portsmouth to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
C03041 · G14938+L79928	8:00 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h40	11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)	2 transfers
G15005	8:27 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h19	11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)	0 transfersDirect
G15128 · W34618+L79592	9:19 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h18	12:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)	2 transfers
G15007	9:27 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h22	12:49 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)	0 transfersDirect
C03050 · W35417+L79940	10:00 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h36	1:36 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)	2 transfers
G15009	10:27 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h18	1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)	0 transfersDirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Portsmouth to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Portsmouth to Cardiff.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Cardiff.

Train companies: Great Western Railway from Portsmouth to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Portsmouth and Cardiff from $18. 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 Great Western Railway Duration

2h 54m

Cheapest Great Western Railway Price

$41

Great Western Railway frequency

5 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

Learn more about Great Western Railway

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.

View on map Visit website

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 Portsmouth to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $41, while the average price is around $101.

The train from Portsmouth to Cardiff takes 2h 54m and runs 6 per day.

The first train from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 4:25 AM.

The distance by train from Portsmouth to Cardiff is 101 miles (164 km).

The last train from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 9:20 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Portsmouth to Cardiff.

Yes, there is a direct train from Portsmouth to Cardiff. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Portsmouth to Cardiff.

The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Cardiff is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).

The train journey from Portsmouth to Cardiff offers varied scenery, including views of the South Downs, picturesque countryside, and glimpses of the Severn Estuary, making it a pleasant and scenic experience.

Yes, you can take the train from Portsmouth to Cardiff.

Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.

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 Portsmouth to Cardiff

Most Portsmouth to Cardiff trains use the Portsmouth & Southsea to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Portsmouth

Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Portsmouth station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Portsmouth to Cardiff leave from Portsmouth & Southsea. The station is from Portsmouth city centre at Portsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ.

Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.

Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services

Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Portsmouth & Southsea.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: 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. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More about Portsmouth & Southsea

Portsmouth HarbourPortsmouth Harbour station, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3PA Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth Harbour from Portsmouth city centre

Portsmouth Harbour is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · $2 · every ~4 min

Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · $3 · every ~214 min

Portsmouth Harbour train station facilities and services

Portsmouth Harbour has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.