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Cardiff Central to Manchester train ticket prices
€15.58
On Thu 01 Jan
Cardiff Central to Manchester train timetable
From Cardiff Central to Manchester, take the fastest train in 3h 19m, typically 3h 41m. Daily, 46 trains depart from Cardiff Central, with the first at 04:33 and the last at 22:22. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:24 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 35 minutes, 1 change | 09:59 Manchester Piccadilly | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
06:40 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 49 minutes, 1 change | 10:29 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
06:46 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 27 minutes, Direct | 10:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
07:23 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 36 minutes, 1 change | 10:59 Manchester Piccadilly | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
07:45 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 44 minutes, 1 change | 11:29 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Cardiff Central to Manchester train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Cardiff Central to Manchester with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
Cardiff Central to Manchester train travel guide
Taking the train from Cardiff Central to Manchester is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Cardiff Central, you can arrive at Manchester in just 3h 19m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
The average fare from Cardiff Central to Manchester is approximately €15.58, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.
What is the best way to travel from Cardiff Central to Manchester by train?
What is the fastest train from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
The quickest train journey from Cardiff Central to Manchester takes 3h 19m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Cardiff Central to Manchester. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Cardiff Central to Manchester train timetables?
While Cardiff Central to Manchester trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Cardiff Central to Manchester is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
Do Cardiff Central to Manchester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Cardiff Central to Manchester route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.

Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the Cardiff Central to Manchester route?
The Cardiff Central to Manchester route is operated by Avanti West Coast. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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Bicycle
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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Pets
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap Cardiff Central to Manchester train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds

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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.





















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