Southampton to Cardiff train with Great Western Railway

Mon, Jun 29
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ 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 Southampton to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Jun 29

Cheapest price

$70

Average price

$147

Fastest journey

2 h 35 m

Average duration

2 h 51 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

139 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Cardiff will cost around $147 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Southampton for Cardiff on Mon, Jun 29, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jun 29 the direct trains cover the 139 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 35 m .

On Mon, Jun 29 the slowest trains will take 3 h 10 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 RailwayG15005
    9:11 AM2h35
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    11:46 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $701One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15004
    8:10 AM2h42
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    10:52 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $701One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15519 · G15216 · G14938
    8:23 AM3h17
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    11:40 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $871One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW34617+CrossCountryG00858
    9:15 AM2h55
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    12:10 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $2071One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayC03041 · G14938+South Western RailwayL78760 · L79928
    8:30 AM3h10
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    11:40 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $2241One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Southampton to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 43m. 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 $20, and a train costs an average of $16.

Distance: 86 miles (139 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$77

Average price

$30

Average price

Cheapest

$42

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 25m

Average total duration

5h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 37m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

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 Southampton to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $30 (€25).

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

A bus is $47 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Cardiff costing on average $77 (€64).

The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 43m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 55m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton 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 $77 (€64) compared to roughly $42 (€34) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-35.61 (€-29.36). The journey takes 2h 43m versus 2h 37m 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

Southampton to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Monday, June 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayG150048:10 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h42
10:52 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00855+Great Western RailwayG149378:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h52
11:07 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15519 · G15216 · G149388:23 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h17
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC03041 · G14938+South Western RailwayL78760 · L799288:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h10
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)3 transfers
Great Western RailwayG150059:11 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h35
11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00858+Great Western RailwayW346179:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h55
12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton 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.

Mon
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01
Thu
Jul 02
Fri
Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Sun
Jul 05

Why should you book Southampton to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Southampton to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Southampton 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Cardiff.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Southampton to Cardiff?

The best time to book your train from Southampton to Cardiff is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Southampton to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Southampton to Cardiff per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Southampton to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 (€14) if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 86 miles (139 km) distance in 2h 22m.

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
Distance
86 miles (139 km)
Average train duration
2h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
$16 (€14)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 22m
First train
4:25 AM
Last train
9:30 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
3 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

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Southampton to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Southampton and Cardiff from $16 (€14). 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 Duration
2h 22m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€14)
Great Western Railway frequency
8 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
$209 (€172)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
$115 (€95)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
13 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

Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.

Pound Sterling

Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $16 (€14), while the average price is around $77 (€64).
The train from Southampton to Cardiff takes 2h 22m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Southampton to Cardiff is 86 miles (139 km).
The first train from Southampton to Cardiff leaves at 4:25 AM.
The last train from Southampton to Cardiff leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Southampton to Cardiff. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Cardiff.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Cardiff is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Cardiff is by train, with a cost of around $16 (€14).
The train journey from Southampton to Cardiff offers varied scenery, featuring rolling countryside, picturesque villages, and occasional views of the Severn Estuary, providing a pleasant and visually appealing experience for travelers.
A day trip from Southampton to Cardiff is not feasible since the journey takes 2h 22m. Trains operate 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 Southampton to Cardiff.
Since neither Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton to Cardiff

Most Southampton to Cardiff trains use the Southampton Central to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Southampton station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Southampton to Cardiff leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre

BusX4, X5 · 5m · $2 · every ~20 min

Southampton Central train station facilities and services

Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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 this station has no 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: Yes.

Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre

Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · $4 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · $2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · $2 · every ~37 min

Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: 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.

St DenysSt Denys station, Osborne Road South, Portswood, Hampshire, SO17 2EZWifiParkingDiningLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to St Denys from Southampton city centre

St Denys is 2 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSouthampton Central - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - Portsmouth & Southsea, Salisbury - Romsey, Romsey - Romsey, Salisbury - Salisbury, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - Winchester, Southampton Central - Portsmouth Harbour, Southampton Central - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 5m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus20 · 22m · $2 · every ~12 min

St Denys train station facilities and services

St Denys has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at St Denys.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at St Denys.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at St Denys.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at St Denys: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at St Denys: Bike Parking.

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