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Trains from Ayr to
Cardiff Bay

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Ayr to Cardiff Bay by train

A train trip from Ayr to Cardiff Bay takes about 10hrs 44 mins on average, covering roughly 282 miles (454 kilometres). With around 6 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £77.60, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Ayr to Cardiff Bay Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Bay

Departure Station

Ayr

Frequency

6trains
per day

Journey Time

from7hrs 31 mins

Changes

4-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:35 / 00:01

Distance

282miles
(454 km)

1 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£77.60

Travelling from Ayr to Cardiff Bay by Train

Hop on a Train from Ayr to Cardiff Bay – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Ayr to Cardiff Bay by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 10hrs 44 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cardiff Bay), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 7hrs 31 mins. With roughly 6 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 282-mile (454 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of ScotRail, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £77.60 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Cardiff Bay!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Ayr and Cardiff Bay

Curious about your trip from Ayr to Cardiff Bay? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Ayr and Cardiff Bay by train?

The travel time between Ayr and Cardiff Bay by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 10hrs 44 mins & the fastest journey takes 7hrs 31 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Ayr and Cardiff Bay by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Ayr to Cardiff Bay is 7hrs 31 mins.

How much does the train from Ayr to Cardiff Bay cost?

Train ticket prices from Ayr to Cardiff Bay can start from as little as £77.60 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Ayr and Cardiff Bay?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Ayr and Cardiff Bay vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 6 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:35, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:01.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Ayr and Cardiff Bay?

First class tickets on trains between Ayr and Cardiff Bay typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Ayr and Cardiff Bay?

Amenities on trains between Ayr and Cardiff Bay can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Ayr to Cardiff Bay by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Ayr and Cardiff Bay. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Bay, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Ayr to Cardiff Bay?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Ayr & Cardiff Bay. However, there are 6 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Ayr to Cardiff Bay?

ScotRail, Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Ayr and Cardiff Bay.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Ayr and Cardiff Bay?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Ayr and Cardiff Bay, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Ayr to Cardiff Bay Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Ayr to Cardiff Bay on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
14:35 Ayr22:24 Cardiff Bay4 changesGlasgow Central
Crewe
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
7 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
16:05 Ayr06:36 Cardiff Bay4 changesGlasgow Central
Crewe
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
14 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
18:39 Ayr08:24 Cardiff Bay4 changesGlasgow Central
Crewe
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
13 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
23:05 Ayr13:06 Cardiff Bay4 changesGlasgow Central
Crewe
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
14 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Ayr to Cardiff Bay journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Ayr to Cardiff Bay start from as little as £77.60

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Ayr to Cardiff Bay start from £157.10 one way, or £224.50 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Ayr to Cardiff Bay are available for £163.60 one way, or £327.20 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Ayr Station

Welcome to Ayr Train Station

Nestled in the scenic landscape of South Ayrshire, Ayr Train Station is a bustling hub for travelers keen on exploring the charming town of Ayr and beyond. Whether you're a local commuting to work or a tourist embarking on a Scottish adventure, Ayr Station serves as an excellent starting point. With its range of facilities and connections, stepping onto the platform is just the beginning of your journey.

Ayr Station Facilities

Ayr Train Station is well-equipped to meet the needs of all travelers. The ticket office operates from the early hours of 5:30 AM until late at night at 11:15 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, while Sundays offer slightly adjusted times. For your convenience, there are ticket machines available for easy purchase and collection, including accessible machines. The station also offers step-free access to most platforms, making it accessible for those with mobility challenges. However, please note that there are no toilets or refreshment facilities available on-site.

You'll find help points and an induction loop throughout the station, emphasizing customer support and inclusivity. If you need assistance, knowledgeable staff are available from early morning to midnight most days of the week, eager to provide any information or support you may require.

Transport Links to and from Ayr Station

Ayr Station is more than a standalone travel hub. It connects seamlessly with various forms of local transport to ensure that reaching your final destination is as smooth as possible. Buses servicing the area can be accessed conveniently from the station’s car park. For an exact bus pickup location, you can use the what3words reference. Additionally, taxis are accessible through TrainTaxi, offering direct transportation straight from the station.

Popular Routes from Ayr

Venturing from Ayr opens up a world of travel possibilities across Scotland. Why not take a scenic train journey from Ayr to Glasgow Central? You can reach the vibrant city center with ease. If you're setting your sights elsewhere, trains from Ayr link you to places like Paisley Gilmour Street, Edinburgh Waverley, and even Prestwick International Airport. From calm seaside escapes to vibrant cityscapes, the train routes from Ayr Station are perfect for both routine commutes and leisurely explorations.

Here's a glimpse of some popular routes you might consider: head from Ayr to Irvine, Prestwick Town, or even venture as far as Edinburgh or Motherwell. These journeys promise picturesque landscapes and a comfortable ride.

Ending Your Journey

Ultimately, Ayr Train Station is a pivotal transit point that caters to both immediate travel needs and ensures connections onward across the region. With its accessible facilities and unyielding dedication to customer service, the station is harmoniously aligned with the serene yet vibrant town of Ayr. Ensure to check train times and ticket availability on various routes for a seamless travel experience.

Whether you're setting off for a day of work or the adventure of a lifetime, Ayr Train Station promises to be a robust start to your journey through Scotland's beautiful expanses. Safe travels!

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Bay Station

Explore Cardiff Bay Train Station: Your Gateway to Adventure

Looking to explore the beautiful Cardiff Bay area or need a convenient station for your daily commute? Cardiff Bay Train Station is a hub poised to cater to every traveler, whether you're visiting for leisure or business. Although a smaller station, it offers essential services to kickstart your journey with ease.

Facilities at Cardiff Bay Station

While Cardiff Bay Train Station may not boast extensive amenities, it does efficiently cover the key necessities for travelers. You won't find a ticket office but don’t fret! Ticket machines are there to facilitate collection of pre-purchased tickets, accept both cash and cards, and are accessible for all travelers, including those who use wheelchairs. Notably, the station provides step-free access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, maintaining its 'Category A' accessibility status.

For those curious about smart travel, Cardiff Bay does not issue smartcards, but validators are available for use. And should you need assistance, a help point is there, alongside departure and arrival screens, ensuring you’re kept in the loop about train statuses. Be sure to take advantage of the assistance service, which permits bookings up to two hours before your trip starts. Whenever needed, contacting the Transport for Wales Customer Relations team is a few clicks away.

Getting There and Away: Transport Connections

Effortlessly commute in and out of Cardiff Bay with the station’s array of transport links. A strategically placed rail replacement bus stop awaits on Bute Street, and bus services are conveniently available right outside the station. If you fancy cycling over public transport, Nextbike/Ovo bike sharing has you covered, with docking stations ready at Lloyd George Avenue for exploring the city on two wheels.

Travel Inspiration: Destinations from Cardiff Bay

Cardiff Bay is more than just a starting point; it’s a gateway to numerous popular destinations throughout Wales. Plan a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street for shopping or head towards Cardiff Central for further connections. Delight in a scenic ride to Barry Island, or join the cultural festivities in Swansea. Whether for work or pleasure, hopping on a train from Cardiff Bay will take you anywhere you need to go with ease.

Wrap Up Your Cardiff Journey

While it may not resemble the grand European stations with vast facilities, Cardiff Bay Train Station still holds its charm. Simple, efficient, and conveniently located, it stands ready to cater to your travel needs without hassle. So, plan your trip, grab your tickets, and let Cardiff Bay Train Station be your gateway to exploring the vibrant scenes and serene landscapes of Wales.

Need more detailed travel information or want to organize your tickets beforehand? Visit National Rail's official website for a seamless experience.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Ayr