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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Atherton

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Cardiff Central to Atherton by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Atherton takes about 5hrs 20 mins on average, covering roughly 145 miles (233 kilometres). With around 17 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 £27.40, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Atherton Key Stats

Arrival Station

Atherton

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

17trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 29 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:33 / 00:38

Distance

145miles
(233 km)

4 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£27.40

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Atherton by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Atherton 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 20 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Atherton), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 29 mins. With roughly 17 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 145-mile (233 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, GWR, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, 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 £27.40 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 Atherton!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Atherton

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

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Atherton by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 20 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 29 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Atherton is 4hrs 29 mins.

How much does the train from Cardiff Central to Atherton cost?

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Atherton can start from as little as £27.40 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 Central and Atherton?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Atherton vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 17 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:38.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Cardiff Central and Atherton?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Central & Atherton. However, there are 17 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Atherton?

Transport for Wales, GWR, Northern Rail, CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Atherton.

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

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

When are Cardiff Central to Atherton Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Atherton on Tuesday 29th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 29th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
18:53 Cardiff Central23:31 Atherton2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
20:03 Cardiff Central05:58 Atherton2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Victoria
9 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
21:24 Cardiff Central07:52 Atherton2 changesChester
Manchester Victoria
10 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
22:10 Cardiff Central08:06 Atherton2 changesCrewe
Wigan North Western
9 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
23:30 Cardiff Central12:22 Atherton2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Leeds
12 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Atherton 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 Central to Atherton start from as little as £27.40

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 Central to Atherton are available for £100.10 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 Central Station

Discover Cardiff Central Train Station

Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.

The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.

Connectivity and Travel Links

This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!

Popular Destinations

Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.

In Conclusion

Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.

Everything you need to know about Atherton Station

Atherton Train Station: Your Gateway to Greater Manchester

Nestled amidst the vibrant network of Northern England's railway links, Atherton Train Station serves as a convenient connector for both locals and visitors navigating the Greater Manchester region. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the rich cultural heritage of nearby cities, Atherton station can be your launching pad for unforgettable journeys.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Atherton station offers several amenities to enhance your travel experience. The station is equipped with a ticket office operational from early morning till late at night, ensuring you can grab your tickets conveniently before starting your journey. Ticket machines facilitate the collection of online tickets, although they currently lack accessibility features. This station also supports smartcards, although no validators are available on-site.

For assistance and support, station staff are on hand to aid passengers during specified hours, with further help available through the helpline at any time. While there are no waiting rooms or lounging facilities, the station is equipped with step-free access to all platforms, making it accessible for those with mobility concerns. Unfortunately, facilities such as toilets, refreshment outlets, and parking surveillance are not available, though the car park offers 64 spaces free of charge.

Travel Connections at Atherton

Atherton station provides a variety of transport links to make your onward journey seamless. Whether it's a short bus ride or a taxi trip to your next destination, the station's connectivity aids hassle-free travel. Bus pickups and taxi services are readily available, and for the well-prepared traveler, there’s a handy link to help plan your journey online. Although bicycle hire isn't an option at the station, bicycle storage is available with some uncovered spaces.

Popular Destinations from Atherton

Embark on exciting adventures from Atherton by hopping on trains to popular destinations such as Manchester Victoria, Salford Central, and Wigan Wallgate. For those looking to venture further, convenient links exist to bigger cities like Leeds, the historic precincts of Liverpool, or even down to London Euston. Whether you're visiting for business, education, or leisure, our routes cover all major destinations across the country.

For leisure seekers, a trip to Blackpool North provides an escape to the seaside, while a short commute to Manchester Airport offers international connectivities. Wherever your journey takes you, Atherton station ensures a comfortable start.

Final Thoughts on Atherton Station

Atherton Train Station leverages its strategic location within the UK’s rail network to facilitate convenient, efficient travel. The station’s amenities support a wide range of traveler needs and offer essential connections, despite its limited in-house facilities. The future might bring enhancements to its existing offerings, thus enabling an even more comfortable transit experience.

So whether you're heading to work in Manchester or planning a holiday to the charming northern town of Wigan, Atherton Station will set your journey off on the right track. For travel schedules, ticket bookings, and planning your next adventure — make Atherton a part of your itinerary today!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central