Chester to Cardiff Central train ticket prices
£26.16
From 01 Jan to 01 Jan
£9.48
On Thu 01 Jan
Chester to Cardiff Central train timetable
From Chester to Cardiff Central, take the fastest train in 2h 42m, typically 3h 14m. Daily, 35 trains depart from Chester, with the first at 04:18 and the last at 22:24. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
11:28 Chester | 3 hours 16 minutes, 1 change | 14:44 Cardiff Central | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
11:32 Chester | 3 hours 12 minutes, 1 change | 14:44 Cardiff Central | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
12:25 Chester | 2 hours 53 minutes, Direct | 15:18 Cardiff Central | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
12:32 Chester | 3 hours 13 minutes, 1 change | 15:45 Cardiff Central | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
13:27 Chester | 3 hours 19 minutes, 1 change | 16:46 Cardiff Central | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
Chester to Cardiff Central train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Chester to Cardiff Central 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.
Chester to Cardiff Central train travel guide
Taking the train from Chester to Cardiff Central is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Chester, you can arrive at Cardiff Central in just 2h 42m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
1. How much does it cost for a train from Chester to Cardiff Central?
Ticket prices from Chester to Cardiff Central average around £9.48, 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.
2. What is the best way to travel from Chester to Cardiff Central by train?
3. What is the fastest train from Chester to Cardiff Central?
The fastest train journey time from Chester to Cardiff Central is 2h 42m . 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.
4. Are there direct trains from Chester to Cardiff Central?
No, there are no direct trains from Chester to Cardiff Central. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
5. Is it worth taking a train from Chester to Cardiff Central?
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.
6. How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.
Check timetables and during the journey
1. Are Chester to Cardiff Central trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Chester to Cardiff Central 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 Chester to Cardiff Central 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.
2. 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.
3. Do Chester to Cardiff Central trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Chester to Cardiff Central 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.
4. How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
5. 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
1. Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
2. Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
3. 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
4. Which train companies operate the Chester to Cardiff Central route?
The train from Chester to Cardiff Central is operated by Avanti West Coast. 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
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
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 Chester to Cardiff Central train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.
Your train was disrupted?
If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.
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.
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