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Trains from Cardiff Bay to
Liverpool Central

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Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central by train

A train trip from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central takes about 4hrs 53 mins on average, covering roughly 134 miles (216 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.

Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Liverpool Central

Departure Station

Cardiff Bay

Frequency

21trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 18 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:56 / 00:05

Distance

134miles
(216 km)

3 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£28.80

Travelling from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central 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 53 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Liverpool Central), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 18 mins. With roughly 21 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 134-mile (216 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Merseyrail, West Midlands Trains, 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 Liverpool Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Bay and Liverpool Central

Curious about your trip from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central? 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 Cardiff Bay and Liverpool Central by train?

The travel time between Cardiff Bay and Liverpool Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 53 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 18 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central is 4hrs 18 mins.

How much does the train from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central 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.

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

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Bay and Liverpool Central 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 06:56, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:05.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Cardiff Bay and Liverpool Central?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Bay & Liverpool Central. However, there are 21 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central?

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

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

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

When are Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central 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
12:26 Cardiff Bay16:35 Liverpool Central4 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool Lime Street
4 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
12:56 Cardiff Bay17:14 Liverpool Central3 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Chester
4 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
13:26 Cardiff Bay17:55 Liverpool Central4 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool Lime Street
4 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
14:26 Cardiff Bay18:55 Liverpool Central4 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool Lime Street
4 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
14:56 Cardiff Bay19:15 Liverpool Central3 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Chester
4 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
15:26 Cardiff Bay20:05 Liverpool Central4 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool Lime Street
4 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
15:56 Cardiff Bay20:15 Liverpool Central3 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Chester
4 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
16:56 Cardiff Bay21:15 Liverpool Central3 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Chester
4 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
17:56 Cardiff Bay22:20 Liverpool Central4 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool Lime Street
4 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
18:26 Cardiff Bay23:00 Liverpool Central4 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool Lime Street
4 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
19:08 Cardiff Bay23:45 Liverpool Central3 changesCardiff Queen Street
Cardiff Central
Chester
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central 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 Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central start from as little as £28.80

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 Cardiff Bay to Liverpool Central are available for £94.90 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 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.

Everything you need to know about Liverpool Central Station

Welcome to Liverpool Central Train Station

Liverpool Central Train Station is a bustling hub nestled in the heart of Liverpool, a city renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage and rich musical history. Whether you're a local commuter, a leisure traveler, or someone just passing through, Liverpool Central offers a seamless experience for rail passengers with its array of facilities and easy connections.

Facilities and Amenities

Liverpool Central Station is equipped to meet a variety of passenger needs. The ticket office operates from early morning until late at night, ensuring travelers can purchase or collect tickets conveniently. Ticket machines are available but do note that they are not designed for accessible use. For those utilizing smartcards, issuance is possible at the station, although validators are not currently available.

Accessibility is a prime focus at Liverpool Central, ensuring step-free access throughout the station. While there are no dedicated parking facilities, visitors can take advantage of accessible toilets and waiting areas. Staff assistance is readily available every day of the week for those who need it, adding an extra layer of support for all passengers.

Dining and Shopping Options

The station features several refreshment and shopping options. Whether you need to grab a quick bite from a vending machine or pick up some essentials from the variety of shops housed on site, such as a convenience store or even a shoe repair service, Liverpool Central has got you covered. An ATM is also available for any immediate cash needs.

Onward Travel Connections

Navigating to and from Liverpool Central is straightforward. Rail replacement services, if needed, can be found at 32 Great Charlotte Street, just moments away from the station. For local travels, comprehensive bus routes are available, with detailed travel information provided by Merseytravel or by contacting Traveline.

For those needing to reach Liverpool John Lennon Airport, there's a convenient rail/bus ticket option from any Merseyrail station to the airport, courtesy of the 86A or 80A buses departing from Liverpool South Parkway station, arriving at the airport within a short 10-minute ride.

Inspiration for Journeys

Liverpool Central isn’t just a gateway to Liverpool's wonders, but a connection point to other delightful destinations. If you fancy a trip to the seaside, hop on a train to Southport or explore the historical allure of cities like Chester. If you're looking for a quick escape from the city, how about a ride to the beautiful Formby or the sports-centric Aintree? These diverse routes ensure you always have places to explore and experiences to look forward to.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool Central station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Liverpool. With its well-rounded services and strategic location, it ensures that both locals and visitors can pursue their journeys smoothly and comfortably. Whether you're catching a train to an important meeting, a holiday adventure, or simply exploring the vibrant city, Liverpool Central fulfills your travel needs. Don't forget to check the train schedules and ticket prices in advance to secure the best travel experience, making your trip as pleasant and efficient as possible.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Bay