A train trip from Birkdale to Cathays takes about 5hrs 59 mins on average, covering roughly 148 miles (238 kilometres). With around 21 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 £28.80, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Cathays |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Birkdale |
Frequency | 21trains per day |
Journey Time | from4hrs 52 mins |
Changes | 3-4no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:10 / 00:04 |
Distance | 148miles (238 km) |
5 Routes | Via Sandhills & Liverpool South Parkway & Crewe & Cardiff Central Via Liverpool Central & Chester & Cardiff Central Via Moorfields & Liverpool Lime Street & Crewe & Cardiff Central Via Liverpool Central & Chester & Crewe & Cardiff Central Via Liverpool South Parkway & Shrewsbury & Cardiff Central |
4 Train Operators | Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Merseyrail |
Prices | from£28.80 |
Hop on a Train from Birkdale to Cathays – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Birkdale to Cathays 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 5hrs 59 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cathays), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 52 mins. With roughly 21 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 148-mile (238 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Merseyrail, 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 £28.80 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 Cathays!
The travel time between Birkdale and Cathays by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 59 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 52 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Birkdale to Cathays is 4hrs 52 mins.
Train ticket prices from Birkdale to Cathays can start from as little as £28.80 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Birkdale and Cathays vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 21 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:10, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:04.
First class tickets on trains between Birkdale and Cathays typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Birkdale and Cathays can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Birkdale and Cathays. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cathays, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Birkdale & Cathays. However, there are 21 possible journeys which require a change.
Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales and Merseyrail are the main train operating companies running services between Birkdale and Cathays.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Birkdale and Cathays, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Saturday 3rd May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 09:10 Birkdale | 14:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:10 Birkdale | 15:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:25 Birkdale | 15:32 Cathays | 3 changes | Liverpool Central Chester Cardiff Central | 5 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:10 Birkdale | 16:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:10 Birkdale | 17:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:25 Birkdale | 17:32 Cathays | 3 changes | Liverpool Central Chester Cardiff Central | 5 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:10 Birkdale | 18:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:10 Birkdale | 19:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:25 Birkdale | 19:37 Cathays | 3 changes | Liverpool Central Chester Cardiff Central | 5 hrs 12 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:10 Birkdale | 20:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:10 Birkdale | 21:32 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 5 hrs 22 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:10 Birkdale | 22:06 Cathays | 4 changes | Sandhills Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 56 mins | Get Tickets | |
Located in the charming fringes of Southport, Birkdale Train Station serves as a welcoming hub for travellers, both near and far. Whether you're a local commuter or a curious visitor, this station offers a mix of convenience and accessibility that eases every journey. Nestled amidst the quaint surroundings of Birkdale, this station is your gateway to explore the vibrant landscapes and urban corners of the United Kingdom.
Operating under Merseyrail, Birkdale Station greets you with the promise of efficient service. If you're planning your next rail adventure, you're at the right place to discover all the details about the facilities, accessibility, and travel options that make this station a popular choice.
At the heart of Birkdale Station, you'll find a well-organized and passenger-friendly environment. Though ticket machines are unavailable, tickets can be conveniently collected from the ticket office, which opens bright and early. Smartcards are issued here, with validators available to ensure seamless travel on the network. Plus, an induction loop is installed to assist those with hearing needs.
Your comfort is well-catered with step-free access throughout the station. It's classified under ‘Category A’, meaning every platform is easily reachable via the level crossing, ideal for passengers with reduced mobility. While the station lacks retail shops, vending machines for cold drinks and snacks are available, allowing for a quick refreshment on the go. Don’t forget to use the secure cycle storage if you’re arriving by bike, with 24 protected spaces under CCTV surveillance ensuring your peace of mind.
Exploring further afield from Birkdale is straightforward. While a taxi rank isn't present at the station, local bus services link wonderfully with other modes of transport. Take a look at this handy guide from Merseytravel for detailed onward journey options. If you’re aiming for international travel, Liverpool John Lennon Airport is conveniently reachable via Merseyrail with combined train and bus tickets, making global adventures only a few steps away.
Birkdale's connections to the broader UK truly shine with numerous routes available. Fancy a quick trip to Southport, or how about a cultural excursion to the heart of Liverpool Central? The choices are plenty, stretching from the serene shores of Formby to bustling urban stops like Moorfields and many more. If you’re seeking inspiration for your next rail journey, rest assured that Birkdale Station links you effortlessly to your desired destination.
Embrace the opportunities that Birkdale Station offers, with its robust connectivity and easy navigation through its facilities. Whether it's a morning commute or a leisurely weekend away, Birkdale makes rail travel a hassle-free endeavor. Dive into the heart of Merseyside or beyond, knowing that comfort and convenience are just a ticket away. So take the leap, plan your trip, and let Birkdale Station be the starting point for your next great adventure.
Safe travels and happy ticket purchasing!
Positioned within the dynamic city of Cardiff, Cathays station serves as a pivotal gateway for local commuters and travelers. Its strategic location near Cardiff University makes it an essential hub for students and visitors alike. As part of the wider UK rail network, Cathays provides efficient services that connect you effortlessly to an array of destinations within and beyond Wales. Whether you're catching a train to Cardiff Central for a city-center adventure or heading out to scenic Barry Island, Cathays station is your dependable departure point.
At Cathays, convenience is a priority. The station offers a ticket office open during weekdays from 06:30 to 19:30. On Saturdays, hours are reduced, yet adequate for a casual weekend jaunt. Automated ticket machines ensure ease of access outside these hours, and with the ability to collect tickets purchased online, your journey begins with minimal fuss. For those concerned with accessibility, the platform configuration may pose challenges with the absence of step-free access across platforms. However, helpful station staff and facilities like induction loops and customer help points are in place to ensure assistance is readily available. CCTV coverage adds an extra layer of security for all travelers.
Navigating beyond the rails is easy at Cathays. The rail replacement bus stop and regular local buses are conveniently located on Park Place, making it simple to plan an onward journey. Though Cathays does not provide ongoing taxi or cycle hire services directly, Cardiff's robust network of public transport ensures you're never far from your next connection.
While the station facilitates efficient ticketing, it misses amenities like shopping outlets, refreshment stands, and public Wi-Fi. Planning ahead by grabbing refreshments prior to arrival could be essential. For cyclists, safe bicycle storage with CCTV ensures your bicycles remain secure during extended visits. Though amenities such as a waiting room are lacking, available seating areas ensure a comfortable stopover.
Cathays is your starting point for an array of adventures. Why not explore Barry’s picturesque seaside or immerse yourself in Swansea’s vibrant culture? For those interested in urban exploration, a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street offers central city excitement. Here are a few key routes to consider: take the scenic journey from Cathays to Barry Island or revel in the academic and cultural offerings just a train ride away, such as from Cathays to Cardiff Central.
Cathays train station is more than just a stop—it's the beginning of a journey, connecting you not only to Cardiff's rich offerings but also to broader locations across the UK. While it may lack some comforts, its strategic placement and robust connections ensure an efficient travel experience. Next time you're planning to venture from Cardiff, consider joining the many passengers who choose Cathays as their travel companion. Grab your tickets with ease, embark on an adventure, and explore the myriad of possibilities this charming station opens up.
With a plethora of destinations at your fingertips and the convenience of ticket purchases and travel updates at your disposal, Cathays station stands as a testament to efficient rail travel in the UK. Remember, wherever your journey takes you next, a smooth start begins with planning and an open mind. Happy travels!