- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Major museum exploring Manchester’s role in science, technology and industry, with historic machinery and railway heritage on the oldest surviving passenger railway station site.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Manchester
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$95
Fastest journey
3 h 19 m
Average duration
3 h 26 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Manchester will cost around $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
Fast trains
Of the 9 trains that leave Cardiff for Manchester on Sat, Jun 20, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 231 km distance in an average of 3 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 19 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 44 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.
3:45 PM3h44Cardiff7:29 PMManchester$701One-way0 transfers- 8:45 AM3h44Cardiff12:29 PMManchester$791One-way0 transfers
9:53 AM3h20Cardiff1:13 PMManchester$791One-way0 transfers- 8:05 AM4h54Cardiff12:59 PMManchester$791One-way0 transfers
- 6:43 AM3h30Cardiff10:13 AMManchester$871One-way0 transfers
- 8:54 AM3h19Cardiff12:13 PMManchester$881One-way0 transfers
- 7:54 AM3h19Cardiff11:13 AMManchester$871One-way0 transfers
- 9:53 AM3h20Cardiff1:13 PMManchester$791One-way0 transfers
- 6:43 AM3h30Cardiff10:13 AMManchester$871One-way0 transfers
- 3:45 PM3h44Cardiff7:29 PMManchester$701One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. 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 $17, and a train costs an average of $37.
Distance: 143 miles (231 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$78 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 3m Average total duration 5h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 49m 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 Cardiff to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Manchester:
A bus is $47 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Manchester costing on average $78 (€64).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Manchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Manchester 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 22m sooner (3h 27m by train vs 3h 49m by car). Tickets start at around $78 (€64) compared to roughly $63 (€52) 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.
Direct services run with Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales.
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
Cardiff to Manchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Manchester trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G00854+ G15041 | Delayed 8:09 AM 8:18 AMCardiff Central (CDF) | 3h41 | 11:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G38967 | On time 8:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h18 | 12:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G66730+W35432 | Delayed 9:10 AM 9:19 AMCardiff Central (CDF) | 3h40 | 12:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G38950 | On time 9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 1:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G66735+W35178 | Delayed 10:09 AM 10:18 AMCardiff Central (CDF) | 3h41 | 1:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G38975 | On time 10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Y62022+G00888 | On time 3:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h49 | 6:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G15049+G00888 | On time 3:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h41 | 6:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G38957 | On time 3:51 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h22 | 7:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y63472+ W33814 | On time 4:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h28 | 7:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| W35435+G00894 | On time 4:21 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h38 | 7:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G38999 | On time 4:55 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h18 | 8:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G66837 · G00901 | On time 5:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h44 | 9:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G38959 | On time 5:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 9:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Y63476+W34129 | On time 6:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h21 | 9:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G66813 · G00912 | On time 6:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h45 | 10:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
| G39004 | On time 6:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h28 | 10:21 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G66815 · G00934 | On time 7:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h23 | 12:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Manchester by train or bus
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Why should you book Cardiff to Manchester trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, Cross Country, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Manchester.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester.
- 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Manchester.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Manchester?
The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Manchester is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Manchester 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 Cardiff to Manchester.
Trains
from $76Buses
from $27Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Manchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€31) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:37, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 3h 19m.
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 $17 (€14)
Distance 143 miles (231 km) |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€31) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 19m |
First train 2:37 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 7 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 $17 (€14)
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country from Cardiff to Manchester trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Manchester from $17 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Transport for Wales frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking 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 allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
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 44m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€31)
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
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$278 (€228)
Cross Country frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Manchester
Things to do in Manchester
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
University museum with acclaimed natural history, archaeology and cultural collections, recently refreshed and especially popular for its dinosaur and ancient Egypt displays.
- Must visit
Manchester Art Gallery
Central city gallery with fine art, design and decorative arts collections, plus changing exhibitions in a landmark civic building.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Manchester’s best-known creative district, packed with street art, independent shops and photogenic corners that are highly popular online.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Canalside heritage area with Roman roots, warehouses, waterside walks and one of the city’s most atmospheric urban landscapes.
- Recommended
Albert Square
Historic civic square framed by major Victorian architecture and often used for events, making it a classic city-centre stop.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Tart
A classic Manchester dessert with shortcrust pastry, raspberry jam, custard, coconut, and a cherry. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional sweet dishes.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A flaky pastry filled with currants, sugar, and butter, originating from Eccles in Greater Manchester. It is a famous regional bake often eaten with tea.
- Gluten-free
Black Pudding
A traditional blood sausage strongly associated with nearby Bury and widely eaten in Manchester, especially as part of a full breakfast.
Dishoom Manchester
A stylish and widely loved restaurant inspired by Bombay cafés, known for rich curries, grilled dishes, and a distinctive heritage interior.
Bundobust Manchester
A popular casual venue pairing Indian street food with craft beer. It is lively, well-known, and especially good for vegetarian diners.
The French
A celebrated fine-dining restaurant in Manchester known for modern British cooking, polished service, and an elegant setting inside The Midland hotel.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but central hotels and nightlife can be pricey.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service, but small tips are appreciated.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester -> Manchester City Centre, Manchester
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Bee Network bus fares are capped, and contactless card payment is accepted on buses and trams.
- Use contactless tap-in and tap-out on Metrolink trams to get the best capped fare automatically.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Manchester 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 Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€31), while the average price is around $78 (€64).
The train from Cardiff to Manchester takes 3h 19m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Manchester is 143 miles (231 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Manchester leaves at 2:37 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Manchester leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Manchester. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Manchester.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Manchester is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The Cardiff to Manchester train route offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque towns, providing a moderately scenic journey.
A day trip from Cardiff to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 19m. The distance between the two cities is 143 miles (231 km). There are 7 trains per day for this route.
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Manchester.
Since neither Cardiff nor Manchester 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 Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Manchester 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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
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 Cardiff to Manchester
Cardiff
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service
- 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. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
The major train station for arrivals in Manchester is Manchester Piccadilly. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Piccadilly for your journey to Manchester from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
- Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi
Lockers
- Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00
Dining
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Carluccio’s
- Hotel Chocolat
- Starbucks
- The Pasty Shop
- Costa Coffee
- Pret a Manger
- Upper Crust
- McDonald's
- & more
Accessibility
- There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
- Premier Inn Manchester City
- Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Information Desk
- Located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level
Public transit options for Manchester Piccadilly
- Bus lines: 1, 2, 3, 147
- Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 06:30 - 22:30
Distance to city center
13 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge
- Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3
- Accessible ticket machines: There are 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts. The Ladies toilets are located at the end of Platform 3. The Gents toilets are located at the end of Platform 2. The National key toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts, at the end of Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a radar key
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts, at the end of Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a radar key
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: No cycle storage
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Manchester Airport
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail Replacement bus services depart from stands L & M of the adjacent Bus Station which is situated close to the ticket office.
Manchester
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