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Cardiff to London train ticket prices
€56.71
On Tue 21 Apr
Cardiff to London train timetable
Journey from Cardiff to London on the fastest train in 1h 50m, usually 2h 4m. Every day, 22 trains leave from Cardiff, starting at 08:50 and ending at 23:11. 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
08:50 Cardiff Central | 2h 11m, Direct | 11:01 London Paddington | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
09:35 Cardiff Central | 1h 54m, Direct | 11:29 London Paddington | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
10:20 Cardiff Central | 1h 51m, Direct | 12:11 London Paddington | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
11:20 Cardiff Central | 1h 50m, Direct | 13:10 London Paddington | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
12:20 Cardiff Central | 1h 50m, Direct | 14:10 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
Travelling by train from Cardiff to London is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Cardiff, you can reach London in just 1h 50m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Cardiff to London?
Ticket prices from Cardiff to London average around €56.71, 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 50m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
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, 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?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Cardiff to London train timetables?
While Cardiff to London 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 to London 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?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Do Cardiff to London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Cardiff to London 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?
Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the 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 Cardiff to London route is operated by CrossCountry. 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
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized 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
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.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted 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 to London 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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