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Trains from Birkenhead Central to
Cardiff Queen Street

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Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street by train

A train trip from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street takes about 4hrs 42 mins on average, covering roughly 132 miles (212 kilometres). With around 24 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 £31.10, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Departure Station

Birkenhead Central

Frequency

24trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 49 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:49 / 00:27

Distance

132miles
(212 km)

4 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.10

Travelling from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street by Train

Hop on a Train from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street 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 4hrs 42 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cardiff Queen Street), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 49 mins. With roughly 24 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 132-mile (212 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of West Midlands Trains, Merseyrail, 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 £31.10 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 Queen Street!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street

Curious about your trip from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street? 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 Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The travel time between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 42 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 49 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street is 3hrs 49 mins.

How much does the train from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street cost?

Train ticket prices from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street can start from as little as £31.10 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 Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 24 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:49, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:27.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street?

First class tickets on trains between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street?

Amenities on trains between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Queen Street, 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 Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Birkenhead Central & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 24 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street?

West Midlands Trains, Merseyrail, Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Birkenhead Central and Cardiff Queen Street?

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

When are Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street on Saturday 3rd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Saturday 3rd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
13:37 Birkenhead Central17:30 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesChester
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
13:52 Birkenhead Central17:56 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesChester
Crewe
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
14:52 Birkenhead Central18:56 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesChester
Crewe
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
15:37 Birkenhead Central19:35 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesChester
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 58 mins Get Tickets
15:52 Birkenhead Central20:00 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesChester
Crewe
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
16:52 Birkenhead Central21:08 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesChester
Crewe
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
17:37 Birkenhead Central21:45 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesChester
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
17:49 Birkenhead Central22:04 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesLiverpool Lime Street
Crewe
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 15 mins Get Tickets
18:49 Birkenhead Central23:26 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesLiverpool Lime Street
Crewe
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street 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 Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street start from as little as £31.10

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.

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 Birkenhead Central to Cardiff Queen Street are available for £92.80 one way

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 Birkenhead Central Station

Exploring Birkenhead Central Station

Birkenhead Central railway station, located in the delightful borough of Wirral, invites travelers to discover the rich history and vibrant community of Birkenhead, as well as providing easy access to the surrounding urban and suburban areas. If you're planning a journey from or through this historic station, understanding its facilities and travel options can greatly enhance your travel experience. Let's delve into what Birkenhead Central has to offer.

Facilities and Amenities at Birkenhead Central Station

The station is equipped with several essential facilities, ensuring that all passengers have a comfortable experience while waiting for their train. Although the station does not have ticket machines, it boasts a ticket office where tickets can be purchased or collected. This office is accessible seven days a week, from early in the morning until late at night. For those who prefer smart travel, smartcard issuance and validation are available, making ticket management easy and efficient.

Travelers with accessibility needs will be pleased to know that Birkenhead Central offers step-free access throughout the station, including lifts to all platforms. However, there are no ticket barriers, which is something to keep in mind for ease of movement. Unfortunately, there are no accessible ticket machines, but assistance is readily available from station staff during operational hours. The station is committed to providing support for all travelers, with induction loops available for those with hearing impairments.

Convenient Transport Links

Birkenhead Central is not just a gateway to the rail network; it's also perfectly positioned for further exploration by other modes of transport. While there is no direct taxi rank or car hire facilities at the station, buses serve the local area with ease, and detailed onward travel information is readily accessible here.

Should you need to fly, the nearest airport, Liverpool John Lennon Airport, is conveniently accessible with combined rail/bus tickets available from any Merseyrail station. Strategic bus connections from Liverpool South Parkway station make reaching your flight a breeze.

Discover Nearby Destinations

Birkenhead Central serves as a fantastic starting point for various local adventures. Whether you are looking for cultural experiences, shopping excursions, or quick getaways, there’s a route that fits your plans perfectly. Popular journeys include exploring the vibrant city life of Liverpool Central and Liverpool James Street, along with historic exploration in Chester. For something a little closer, a short ride to Rock Ferry or the serene village ambiance of Port Sunlight could be just what you need.

More to Explore

Whether you're a commuter or an adventurer setting out for the day, Birkenhead Central isn't just a stop on the rail line; it's a portal to the essence of North West England. While amenities like vending machines and a news agent are available for a quick refreshment stop, there's much more to look forward to when you step out to explore the area.

With travel convenience right at the heart of its design, Birkenhead Central ensures smooth travel transitions highlighted by its absence of household features like an ATM or public Wi-Fi, nudging you gently towards spending more time enjoying your destination. So next time you're considering a rail journey, give Birkenhead Central a try, and you're sure to discover more than just a train ride.

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Queen Street Station

Exploring Cardiff Queen Street Train Station

Welcome to Cardiff Queen Street train station, a key hub in the heart of Wales' lively capital city. Whether you're a local commuter hopping between city stops or a visitor setting off to explore South Wales, Cardiff Queen Street offers all the essentials you might need for a smooth journey. Here, modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the traditional architecture of Cardiff’s bustling center.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Queen Street station is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and accessible travel experience. The ticket office operates from as early as 6 am on weekdays and has plenty of ticket machines available throughout the station. You can collect tickets bought online from these machines and they're easily accessible near the main entrance. The station offers step-free access across all platforms via lifts, making it highly accessible. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are conveniently located on Platform 4 for those traveling with little ones.

For those who might need extra assistance, staff is available to help from 05:15 to midnight on most days. Despite the lack of eateries or shops, the station offers public Wi-Fi so you can stay connected on the go. If cycling is your preferred mode to and from the station, you'll find ample cycle storage with CCTV coverage for peace of mind. Remember, the bustling streets of Cardiff offer numerous nearby cafes and shops to grab a bite or essentials before you catch your train.

Transport Connections

Getting to and from Cardiff Queen Street is a breeze with several options available. There are local bus services with limited offerings right outside the station on weekdays. During rail disruptions, replacement bus services are set up at bus stops nearby, ensuring you aren't left stranded. However, taxis aren't as readily accessible since there are no designated accessible taxi points or spaces.

Popular Destinations

From Cardiff Queen Street, you're well-positioned to explore various places quickly and conveniently. Head down to Cardiff Bay for stunning waterfront views or make your way to Cardiff Central, the city's flagship station. For a taste of local culture, a short ride to Pontypridd might be just what you're looking for.

Planning a longer journey? Don't miss the chance to visit Newport in South Wales or explore the charm of Caerphilly. With reliable connections, your journey starts here.

Closing Remarks

Cardiff Queen Street is more than just a connecting point—it's an invitation to explore the rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes Wales has to offer. Whether you're commuting for work or touring the sights, this station is your gateway to endless adventures. Travel happy and let Cardiff Queen Street set your journey in motion.

Ready to plan your trip? Dive into what's next and make the most of your travel experience from Cardiff Queen Street! Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Birkenhead Central