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Manchester to Cardiff train ticket prices
€38.43
On Tue 24 Feb
Manchester to Cardiff train timetable
Travelling from Manchester to Cardiff, the fastest train takes 4h 4m with an average travel time of 4h 24m. 31 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:25 and the last at 22:55. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
22:55 Manchester Piccadilly | 8h 50m, 2 change | 07:45 Cardiff Central | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
Manchester to Cardiff train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Manchester 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.
Transport for Wales: Manchester to Cardiff trains
With Transport for Wales, the ride from Manchester to Cardiff takes approximately 3 hours. The Welsh capital and the northern powerhouse of Manchester are around 144 miles apart, meaning the journey is a little longer than some other UK routes.
Your journey will include traversing through Greater Manchester and Cheshire, passing the verdant counties of Shropshire and Herefordshire before dropping down into Wales and onto the Welsh capital, Cardiff.
Transport for Wales runs the direct Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff train. It also operates most train services within Wales, such as Cardiff to Swansea, and cross-border services into England to destinations like Bristol, Liverpool, and Manchester.
Departing from Manchester Piccadilly
Manchester Piccadilly is the busiest train station in Manchester and one of the busiest in the UK, meaning that it’s fortunately very well connected to other train stations, as well as buses, taxis, and Metrolink trams. Manchester Coach Station is only a five-minute walk to Piccadilly.
If you’re coming from Manchester Airport, you can catch the direct train from the airport to Piccadilly, which takes only around fifteen minutes.
Since Manchester Piccadilly is such a major railway hub, many other UK train operators use this station including Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Northern, TransPennine Express, and East Midlands Railway.
Main stops
There are ten stations between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff. These are: Stockport, Wilmslow, Crewe, Shrewsbury, Ludlow, Leominster, Hereford, Abergavenny, Cwmbran, and Newport.
Although it’s worth remembering that these stations may change due to things like scheduling changes or unpredictable weather events, it's best to check before you travel.
If you want to buy cheap train tickets, booking in advance on sites like TrainPal is a good idea. Adding a Railcard will earn you an extra discount, too.
Arriving at Cardiff Central
Cardiff Central station is conveniently situated in the city centre at Central Square, providing immediate access to the vibrant city right from your train carriage.
Cardiff offers a plethora of attractions. Cardiff Castle, with origins dating back to the Roman era, was later managed by the Normans and underwent significant Gothic and Victorian renovations in the 19th century. The National Museum of Cardiff and Techniquest science museum are also excellent choices for any visit to the city.
From Cardiff Central, navigating the city is straightforward. The Cardiff Bus Interchange is located directly at Central Square, and taxis are readily available on Saunders Road. For those traveling to the airport, an express coach service operates directly from the station.
Transport for Wales train classes
- Standard Class: Comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi. There are also tables and power sockets for your devices.
- First Class: First Class includes more spacious seating, greater comfort, large tables, and exclusive dining options.
Transport for Wales train travel advice
- Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Bikes can be stored free of charge, but space is limited. It is strongly recommended that you book your ticket in advance to book a bike space. Booking early also lets you buy cheap train tickets, especially on sites like TrainPal.
- Children: Under 5’s can travel for free. Children aged 5 to 15 can save 50% on their tickets. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
- Passenger Assist: Provide ramps for boarding and alighting trains, guide you through the station, help find and reserve seats, and assist with luggage.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Manchester to Cardiff train travel guide
Travelling by train from Manchester to Cardiff is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Manchester, you can reach Cardiff in just 4h 4m, 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 Manchester to Cardiff?
Ticket prices from Manchester to Cardiff average around €38.43, 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 Manchester to Cardiff by train?
What is the fastest train from Manchester to Cardiff?
The fastest train journey time from Manchester to Cardiff is 4h 4m . 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 Manchester to Cardiff?
No, there are no direct trains from Manchester to Cardiff. 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
Is it worth taking a train from Manchester to Cardiff?
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?
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 Manchester to Cardiff train timetables?
While Manchester 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 Manchester 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?
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 Manchester to Cardiff trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Manchester 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?
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 Manchester to Cardiff route?
The Manchester to Cardiff route is operated by Avanti West Coast. 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
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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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
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
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Manchester to Cardiff 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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