A train trip from Cardiff Bay to London Waterloo takes about 3hrs 5 mins on average, covering roughly 131 miles (211 kilometres). With around 27 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 £31.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | London Waterloo |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Bay |
Frequency | 27trains per day |
Journey Time | from2hrs 49 mins |
Changes | 3-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:56 / 00:05 |
Distance | 131miles (211 km) |
2 Routes | Via Cardiff Queen Street & Cardiff Central & London Paddington Via Cardiff Central & London Paddington & Tottenham Court Road (Elizabeth Line) |
3 Train Operators | GWR, Elizabeth Line, Transport for Wales |
Prices | from£31.00 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Bay to London Waterloo – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Bay to London Waterloo 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 3hrs 5 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to London Waterloo), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 49 mins. With roughly 27 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 131-mile (211 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of GWR, Elizabeth Line, Transport for Wales, 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 £31.00 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 London Waterloo!
The travel time between Cardiff Bay and London Waterloo by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 5 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 49 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Bay to London Waterloo is 2hrs 49 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Bay to London Waterloo can start from as little as £31.00 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 Cardiff Bay and London Waterloo vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 27 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:56, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:05.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Bay and London Waterloo typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Bay and London Waterloo 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 Cardiff Bay and London Waterloo. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to London Waterloo, 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 Cardiff Bay & London Waterloo. However, there are 27 possible journeys which require a change.
GWR, Elizabeth Line and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Bay and London Waterloo.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Bay and London Waterloo, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Friday 2nd May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 12:56 Cardiff Bay | 15:48 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:26 Cardiff Bay | 16:20 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 54 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:56 Cardiff Bay | 16:45 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:26 Cardiff Bay | 17:17 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 51 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:56 Cardiff Bay | 17:46 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 50 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:26 Cardiff Bay | 18:18 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:56 Cardiff Bay | 18:49 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 53 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:26 Cardiff Bay | 19:19 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 53 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:56 Cardiff Bay | 19:50 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 54 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:26 Cardiff Bay | 20:20 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 54 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:56 Cardiff Bay | 20:52 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 56 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:56 Cardiff Bay | 21:51 London Waterloo | 3 changes | Cardiff Queen Street Cardiff Central London Paddington | 2 hrs 55 mins | Get Tickets | |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nestled in the heart of London, Waterloo Station stands as a bustling epicenter for commuters and travelers alike, serving as the beating heart of UK's rail network. From the breath-taking grandeur of its architecture to its vibrant hustle and bustle, it's a place where the world feels like it's at your fingertips. Beyond the picturesque platforms, London Waterloo isn't just about catching a train; it's an experience that embraces convenience, accessibility, and variety.
London Waterloo Station is replete with facilities designed to make your journey smooth and hassle-free. Its ticket office operates from 5:30 AM to 11:15 PM during weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly adjusted times on Sundays. For those who prefer to plan their travels in advance, ticket machines are available on the main concourse, making online ticket collection straightforward and accessible. Moreover, there's an induction loop system making communication easy for the hearing impaired.
Accessibility is one of the key strengths of Waterloo Station, with step-free access available throughout. The station is ably equipped to cater to the needs of all passengers, featuring accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and seating areas to ensure comfort. Help points, dedicated staff assistance, and an extensive customer service offering guarantee that you’re never without support.
Beyond travel, the station's main concourse presents a generous selection of shopping and dining options. From seated dining experiences to convenient takeaways, the station has every palate covered. A mix of shops, including a pharmacy, clothing stores, and more, ensure that whatever last-minute essentials you may need, you’ll find them on hand.
Moving beyond the platforms, London Waterloo Station acts as a dynamic node connecting you with London and beyond. With a dedicated taxi rank and a close-knit relationship with London's extensive bus and Underground services, getting around is both straightforward and efficient. Waterloo Underground station is served by several lines, including the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines making your planning effortless.
For those looking to explore the city on two wheels, Santander Cycle hire bikes are available nearby. The station's proximity to the South Bank makes it an inviting starting point for a leisurely stroll or cycle along the riverside for a touch of culture and picturesque views.
If you're planning a journey, London Waterloo connects you with an array of popular destinations. Whether it’s a quick trip to nearby Clapham Junction, a family day out to Wimbledon, or a scenic journey further afield to Southampton Central, the station offers a gateway to adventure.
The list of travel options is extensive, with trips to Guildford, Richmond, and Basingstoke providing just a glimpse of the destinations accessible from Waterloo.
London Waterloo isn’t just a station; it’s a launchpad for discovery and experience. Whether you're on a daily commute or embarking on a new journey, the station's unparalleled facilities and connectivity ensure that every trip is a pleasure. As you step into this vibrant hub, you become part of a tradition of travel and exploration, stretching back over a century and continuing to evolve with the city around it.
So, whether you are buying tickets online or from the station, you can be assured of a seamless experience at London Waterloo. It’s not just where journeys end and begin, but where memories are made and adventures are born. Come, explore; the world from London Waterloo awaits you!