- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with fine art, natural history, and geology collections in the city center. A top cultural stop in Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rugby to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jul 11
Cheapest price
$62
Average price
$62
Fastest journey
2 h 51 m
Average duration
2 h 51 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
165 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rugby to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rugby to Cardiff will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $62.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Rugby for Cardiff on Sat, Jul 11, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 11 the direct trains cover the 165 km distance in an average of 2 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 51 m .
On Sat, Jul 11 the slowest trains will take 2 h 51 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.
8:34 AM2h51Rugby11:25 AMCardiff$621One-way0 transfers
- 8:34 AM2h51Rugby11:25 AMCardiff$621One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Rugby to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rugby to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a train costs an average of $38.
Distance: 102 miles (165 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$55 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 24m Average total duration Fastest 2h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 38m Average total duration 7h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Rugby to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Rugby to Cardiff:
A bus is $28 (€23) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rugby to Cardiff costing on average $55 (€45).
The fastest way to travel from Rugby to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 54m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rugby and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rugby 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 $55 (€45) compared to roughly $44 (€36) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-10.98 (€-9.01). The journey takes 2h 54m versus 2h 42m 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
Rugby to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Rugby to Cardiff trains for today, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:34 AM Rugby | 2h52 | 11:26 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Rugby 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.
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
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Jul 17
Jul 17
Why should you book Rugby to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Rugby to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rugby 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 West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Rugby 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 Rugby to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Rugby to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Rugby to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rugby to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Rugby to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $19 (€16) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:15. The fastest train covers the 102 miles (165 km) distance in 2h 51m.
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 $19 (€16)
Distance 102 miles (165 km) |
Average train duration 2h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 51m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 9:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 70 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 $19 (€16)
Train companies: CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast from Rugby to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Rugby and Cardiff from $19 (€16). 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 Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 6m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€138)
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$239 (€196)
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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 showing Welsh historic buildings, crafts, and daily life. One of Wales’ most important heritage attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industries, and urban development through accessible local stories and objects.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with striking public buildings, boardwalk-style walks, and some of the city’s most photographed views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle with riverside paths, mature trees, and easy walking routes from the city center.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Historic Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades that define central Cardiff’s character and are popular for strolling and photography.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort foods and strongly associated with Cardiff and South Wales.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Toast topped with a savoury sauce of melted cheese, mustard, and ale or milk. It is a classic Welsh dish often served as a snack or light meal in pubs and cafes.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is a distinctive meat-free dish from South Wales and commonly found on local menus.
Pasture Cardiff
Established steak restaurant known for quality meat, wood-fired cooking, and an energetic dining room. A strong choice for Welsh beef and special-occasion meals.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
A respected fine-dining venue serving polished British dishes in a unique setting, known for professional service and a memorable experience.
The Potted Pig
Well-known restaurant in a former bank vault, popular for modern Welsh and British cooking, especially pork dishes, with a stylish but relaxed atmosphere.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Meals and transport are reasonable, while central hotels cost more on weekends and during major events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 55+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up for taxis. Tipping is not expected in pubs or for takeaway.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.50
To the city center
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless card is available on Transport for Wales rail services in the South Wales Metro area, including Cardiff Central.
- For Cardiff Bus, buying tickets in the Cardiff Bus app is usually the easiest option; check the fare zone before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Rugby to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rugby 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 Rugby to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $55 (€45).
The train from Rugby to Cardiff takes 2h 51m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Rugby to Cardiff is 102 miles (165 km).
The first train from Rugby to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The last train from Rugby to Cardiff leaves at 9:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Rugby to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rugby to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rugby to Cardiff.
The train station in Rugby that goes to Cardiff is Rugby station (RUG), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Rugby to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€16).
The train journey from Rugby to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including picturesque landscapes of the English Midlands and parts of the scenic Welsh borders, providing a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Rugby to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 51m. The distance is 102 miles (165 km), with 4 trains available 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 Rugby to Cardiff.
Since neither Rugby 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Rugby 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 Rugby to Cardiff
Most Rugby to Cardiff trains use the Rugby to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Rugby and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Rugby
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Rugby station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Rugby to Cardiff leave from Rugby. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Rugby city centre at Rugby station, Railway Terrace, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 3LA.
RugbyRugby station, Railway Terrace, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 3LA
City-centre transport
Getting to Rugby from Rugby city centre
Rugby is 1 km from Rugby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4, 96S, 8B, 8, 96A, 96, 4A, 2, D1, 8A · 2m · $2 · every ~22 min
4, 4A · 5m · $2 · every ~11 min
Rugby train station facilities and services
Rugby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Rugby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rugby. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rugby: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rugby: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rugby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Steep ramp from entrance to platforms, staff are available to help, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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.
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 · $2 · 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 · $2 · 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.
Cardiff BayCardiff Bay station, Bute Street, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5LE
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Bay from Cardiff city centre
Cardiff Bay is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Central - Cardiff Bay, Pontypridd - Cardiff Bay, Cardiff Queen Street - Cardiff Bay, Radyr - Cardiff Bay · 3m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus6, 305, Sky · 9m · $5 · every ~10 min
Cardiff Bay train station facilities and services
Cardiff Bay has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Bay.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Bay: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Bay: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Bay: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Rugby
More options for your journey from Rugby to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Rugby
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