No booking fees on the app
Best Price Promise
Delay Repay
24/7 customer support
Cardiff to London train ticket prices
€51.14
On Sun 19 Apr
Cardiff to London train timetable
Journey from Cardiff to London on the fastest train in 1h 48m, usually 1h 54m. Every day, 33 trains leave from Cardiff, starting at 05:07 and ending at 23:30. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:20 Cardiff Central | 2h 6m, Direct | 23:26 London Paddington | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
23:11 Cardiff Central | 7h 18m, 1 change | 06:29 London Paddington | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
Cardiff to London train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Cardiff to London 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.
Great Western Railway trains from Cardiff to London
Travel hassle-free between the Welsh and English capitals in just under two hours. These tried-and-tested tips will help you get the most out of your trip with Great Western Railway (GWR).
How much luggage does Great Western Railway allow?
GWR offers ample luggage storage space and a generous allowance. Each passenger can board with three pieces measuring 25 x 40 x 75 centimetres max.
What are Standard Class carriages like on Great Western Railway trains?
Seats are arranged in a 2+2 configuration, and you can easily find a free space thanks to the reservation screens. Stay charged and browse the net with power sockets and free WiFi access. You also have the option of travelling in a quiet coach (usually Coach A) if you want to read a book, nap or enjoy a calmer environment.
Should I upgrade to Great Western Railway First Class?
For a higher price, passengers with Cardiff to London First Class tickets are treated to a luxury experience. It’s a worthwhile option for ultimate comfort. Unwind in Cardiff Central and London Paddington’s First Class lounges (both on platform 1). Complimentary refreshments are served for the entirety of your trip.
When is the last Cardiff to London train?
The last direct service from Cardiff Central to London Paddington departs at 21:20 on weekdays, 20:22 on Saturdays and 21:20 on Sundays.
Train travel from Cardiff to London
GWR’s reliable rail services offer environmentally friendly travel twice an hour. Uncover the secrets to making your trip as seamless as possible.
Departure from Cardiff Central
Reach Cardiff Central from all corners of the coastal city. It’s easily walkable without bulky luggage. If you need to take public transport, many Cardiff Bus routes stop at the adjacent Cardiff Bus Interchange.
- Finding your platform: Longer-distance routes, including the Cardiff to London train, tend to stop at platforms 0–4. Allow five minutes to walk through the subway or use the lifts to access the right platform.
- An array of refreshments: While we could stare at the magnificent Art Deco details in the entrance hall all day, taking a coffee break before the train departs is also a great idea. Pay a visit to Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret or Upper Crust for quality drinks, sandwiches and fresh pastries.
On board trains from Cardiff to London
Benefit from magnificent views and catering - all without having to move from your seat.
- View alert: Don’t miss the stunning scenery on your way from Cardiff Central to London Paddington. Must-see highlights include crossing the River Severn and zooming past lush green hills and charming countryside landscapes. Sit on the right side of the train for the best views.
- Trolley service: Friendly GWR staff will serve snacks, sandwiches and drinks at your seat (free in First Class). A range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options is available.
Arriving at London Paddington
When you step off the Cardiff to London train, you’re a stone’s throw from a canalside haven on the corner of central London. For help navigating the station’s exits and transport links, look no further.
- Which exit? Use the Praed Street exit for local buses, hotels and St Mary’s Hospital. For step-free access, the exit by platform 1 leads to Eastbourne Terrace. The northern Paddington Basin and Bishops Bridge Road exit on the upper level is accessible via stairs/ramps from the platforms. Head this way for the Regent’s Canal and Little Venice.
- First Class lounge: Keep the free refreshments flowing at GWR’s First Class lounge on platform 1. You’ll also find charging points, Queen Victoria’s former waiting room and showers to freshen up.
- Getting around London: Paddington has two London Underground stations. For the Bakerloo, Circle and District lines, enter the station near platform 5. The other station, running eastbound Circle line and Hammersmith & City line trains, is on the upper level via the Paddington Basin and Bishops Bridge Road exit. You can also get a taxi from this level. All exits have local buses stopping nearby. For the Elizabeth line, go towards platform 1 and follow the signage.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Cardiff to London train travel guide
The train journey from Cardiff to London combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Cardiff, you can get to London in just 1h 48m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Cardiff to London?
Ticket prices from Cardiff to London average around €51.14, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
What is the best way to travel from Cardiff to London by train?
What is the fastest train from Cardiff to London?
The fastest train journey time from Cardiff to London is 1h 48m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from Cardiff to London?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Cardiff to London. 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 to London?
Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
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 to London train timetables?
Cardiff to London trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
Do Cardiff to London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Cardiff to London are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
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?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Cardiff to London route?
The route from Cardiff to London is operated by Great Western Railway. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
-
Luggage
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
-
Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
-
Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
-
Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
-
Passenger assistance
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap Cardiff to London train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
More train routes
* 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.
New user welcome pack