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Cardiff to Nottingham train ticket prices
€19.90
On Thu 01 Jan
Cardiff to Nottingham train timetable
From Cardiff to Nottingham, take the fastest train in 3 hours 14 minutes, typically 3 hours 26 minutes. Daily, 28 trains depart from Cardiff, with the first at 00:30 and the last at 21:45. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:40 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 19 minutes, Direct | 09:59 Nottingham | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
06:51 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 26 minutes, 2 change | 10:17 Nottingham | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
07:45 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 15 minutes, Direct | 11:00 Nottingham | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
08:45 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 16 minutes, Direct | 12:01 Nottingham | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
09:19 Cardiff Central | 3 hours 43 minutes, 2 change | 13:02 Nottingham | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
Cardiff to Nottingham train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Cardiff to Nottingham 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 to Nottingham train travel guide
Travelling by train from Cardiff to Nottingham is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Cardiff, you can reach Nottingham in just 3 hours 14 minutes, 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 Nottingham?
Ticket prices from Cardiff to Nottingham average around €19.90, 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 Nottingham by train?
What is the fastest train from Cardiff to Nottingham?
The fastest train journey time from Cardiff to Nottingham is 3 hours 14 minutes . 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 Nottingham?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Cardiff to Nottingham. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Cardiff to Nottingham?
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
Are Cardiff to Nottingham trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Cardiff to Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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?
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 Nottingham trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Cardiff to Nottingham 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?
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 Nottingham route?
The train from Cardiff to Nottingham is operated by CrossCountry. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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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.
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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 to Nottingham 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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