- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Aug 20
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$76
Fastest journey
3 h 51 m
Average duration
3 h 59 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff will cost around $76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Stansted Mountfitchet for Cardiff on Thu, Aug 20, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 20 the direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 3 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 51 m .
On Thu, Aug 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 15 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.
10:17 AM3h51Stansted Mountfitchet2:08 PMCardiff$731One-way0 transfers- 9:17 AM3h51Stansted Mountfitchet1:08 PMCardiff$741One-way0 transfers
- 8:52 PM4h15Stansted Mountfitchet1:07 AMCardiff$781One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM3h57Stansted Mountfitchet12:37 PMCardiff$791One-way0 transfers
- 10:17 AM3h51Stansted Mountfitchet2:08 PMCardiff$731One-way0 transfers
- 9:17 AM3h51Stansted Mountfitchet1:08 PMCardiff$741One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM3h57Stansted Mountfitchet12:37 PMCardiff$791One-way0 transfers
- 8:52 PM4h15Stansted Mountfitchet1:07 AMCardiff$781One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $46.
Distance: 147 miles (238 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$75 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $68 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 29m Average total duration Fastest 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $41 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff:
A bus is $34 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff costing on average $75 (€61).
The fastest way to travel from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 59m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Stansted Mountfitchet and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 28m sooner (2h 59m by train vs 3h 27m by car). Tickets start at around $75 (€61) compared to roughly $68 (€55) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Thursday, August 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:40 AM Stansted Mountfitchet | 3h57 | 12:37 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:17 AM Stansted Mountfitchet | 3h51 | 1:08 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:17 AM Stansted Mountfitchet | 3h51 | 2:08 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Stansted Mountfitchet 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.
Thu
Aug 20
Aug 20
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Why should you book Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Stansted Express or Greater Anglia offer trains services from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stansted Mountfitchet 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 Stansted Express or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Stansted Mountfitchet 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 Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Stansted Express or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) but you can travel from only $28 (€22) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 147 miles (238 km) distance in 3h 18m.
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 $28 (€22)
Distance 147 miles (238 km) |
Average train duration 2h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 18m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 9:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 42 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 $28 (€22)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Stansted Express, Greater Anglia from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, Stansted Express, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Stansted Mountfitchet and Cardiff from $28 (€22). 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
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
Great Western Railway frequency
7 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
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest Price
$203 (€164)
Greater Anglia frequency
16 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
Stansted Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$211 (€171)
Stansted Express frequency
9 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
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.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
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.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card and mobile payments on buses. Exact fare is not needed if you pay contactless.
- For rail travel around Cardiff, use the official Transport for Wales app for tickets and live times.
FAQs: Trains from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stansted Mountfitchet 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 Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€37), while the average price is around $75 (€61).
The train from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff takes 3h 18m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff is 147 miles (238 km).
The last train from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff leaves at 9:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff.
The train station in Stansted Mountfitchet that goes to Cardiff is Stansted Mountfitchet station (SST), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€22).
The train journey from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff offers a mix of scenic views, including glimpses of the English countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque towns, particularly as the route approaches the Welsh border.
A day trip from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff is not feasible due to the journey duration of 3h 18m. Trains run 8 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 Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff.
Since neither Stansted Mountfitchet 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 Stansted Mountfitchet 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 Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff
Most Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff trains use the Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Stansted Mountfitchet and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Stansted Mountfitchet
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Stansted Mountfitchet station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff leave from Stansted Mountfitchet. The station is from Stansted Mountfitchet city centre at Stansted Mountfitchet station, Station Road, Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, CM24 8BE.
Stansted MountfitchetStansted Mountfitchet station, Station Road, Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, CM24 8BE+44 345 600 7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Stansted Mountfitchet from Stansted Mountfitchet city centre
Onward travel informationLocal bus services
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the junction of Station Road and Church Road, next to the Kings Arms public house
Stansted Mountfitchet train station facilities and services
Stansted Mountfitchet has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cork House
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Stansted Mountfitchet.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stansted Mountfitchet.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stansted Mountfitchet: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stansted Mountfitchet: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stansted Mountfitchet: Staff help available: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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.
Most popular train connections from Stansted Mountfitchet
More options for your journey from Stansted Mountfitchet to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Stansted Mountfitchet
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