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London to Cardiff train ticket prices
€52.04
On Thu 12 Feb
London to Cardiff train timetable
Journey from London to Cardiff on the fastest train in 1h 48m, usually 1h 52m. Every day, 22 trains leave from London, starting at 06:48 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:48 London Paddington | 1h 49m, Direct | 08:37 Cardiff Central | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
07:48 London Paddington | 1h 48m, Direct | 09:36 Cardiff Central | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
08:48 London Paddington | 1h 52m, Direct | 10:40 Cardiff Central | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
09:48 London Paddington | 1h 53m, Direct | 11:41 Cardiff Central | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
10:48 London Paddington | 1h 52m, Direct | 12:40 Cardiff Central | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
London to Cardiff train tickets and times
Plan your journey from London to Cardiff 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.
Direct train route from London to Cardiff
The direct train from London Paddington to Cardiff Central takes around 1h 48m and covers an average distance of 131 miles (210km). From 06:48 to 23:30, there are 22 trains running every day.
Departing from London Paddington
The best train from London to Cardiff departs from London Paddington, located on Praed Street and connects with the London Underground. You can easily reach this station by train, bus, taxi, bike or Underground.
Operated by GWR, Elizabeth Line and Heathrow Express, London Paddington Station connects to other major destinations like Oxford, Shenfield and Heathrow Airport by train. It also links to the London Underground system, including the Circle, Hammersmith & City, Bakerloo and District lines.
Main stops
Here are the main stops, which may vary due to different times, train operators, and routes:
- Reading
- Swindon (Wilts)
- Bristol Parkway
- Newport (South Wales)
Arriving at Cardiff Central
The best train from London to Cardiff arrives at Cardiff Central, the main railway station located in the heart of Cardiff, the capital city of Wales.
Cardiff Central railway station is situated in Central Square, making it highly accessible from various parts of the city. The station is well-served by local public transport, including buses and taxis, ensuring convenient travel options for all visitors.
From Cardiff Central, you can easily visit popular attractions such as Cardiff Castle and the Principality Stadium, both located nearby.
Cardiff Central is a vital transport hub, offering both local and long-distance train services. Major train operators at Cardiff Central include Transport for Wales, GWR, and CrossCountry. The station provides excellent connections to various destinations across the UK, including London, Bristol, Birmingham, Chester, Nottingham, and Manchester.
GWR trains from London to Cardiff
Travel from London Paddington to Cardiff Central with GWR in around 1h50m. During this journey, you might see a variety of landscapes, such as modern buildings, the River Thames, vast countryside and farmlands, or some rolling hills and green spaces.
Travel with GWR’s high-speed trains to destinations including London, Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, and Oxford. Benefit from first-class amenities, featuring high-speed WiFi, complimentary meals, and access to First Class lounges for a superior travel experience.
GWR Standard Class
Basic facilities still satisfy your needs. Onboard services include:
- Free WiFi
- Plug sockets
- Comfy seats
GWR First Class
High-quality first-class services on board. Onboard services include:
- Free WiFi
- Plug sockets
- Quieter carriages
- Free food and drink
- First Class lounges
Travel with GWR
Quickly learn about the services on GWR to enjoy a comfortable journey.
- Luggage: Up to three items: two large and one small. Large items maximum 25x40x70 cm. Additional luggage may incur charges.
- Bicycles: Best to book ahead. Folding bikes anytime; full-size bikes not allowed 07:45-09:45 or 16:30-19:00 weekdays.
- Children: Bring folding strollers; baby changing facilities on all trains. Priority boarding at London Paddington, 9am-5pm weekdays.
- Pets: Up to two dogs, cats or other small domestic animals, for free. Dangerous or uncontrolled animals may be refused.
- Passenger Assist: Accessible toilets, ramps, wheelchair spaces, and priority seat cards available on all trains.
London to Cardiff train travel guide
Taking the train from London to Cardiff is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from London, you can arrive at Cardiff in just 1h 48m, 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 London to Cardiff?
The average ticket fare from London to Cardiff is about €52.04, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
How do I find the best train route from London to Cardiff?
What is the fastest train from London to Cardiff?
The quickest train journey from London to Cardiff takes 1h 48m . 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 London to Cardiff?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London to Cardiff. 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 London to Cardiff?
Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
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
How do I find London to Cardiff train timetables?
While London to Cardiff 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 London to Cardiff 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 London to Cardiff trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London to Cardiff 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?
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?
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 London to Cardiff route?
The London to Cardiff route is operated by Great Western Railway. 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
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
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.
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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
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 London to Cardiff 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?
* 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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