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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Durham

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Cardiff Central to Durham by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Durham takes about 5hrs 52 mins on average, covering roughly 237 miles (382 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 £31.40, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Durham Key Stats

Arrival Station

Durham

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

17trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 8 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:54 / 00:38

Distance

237miles
(382 km)

4 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.40

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Durham by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Durham 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 52 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Durham), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 5hrs 8 mins. With roughly 17 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 237-mile (382 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, GWR, 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 £31.40 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 Durham!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Durham

Curious about your trip from Cardiff Central to Durham? 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 Durham by train?

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Durham by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 52 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 8 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Durham is 5hrs 8 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Durham can start from as little as £31.40 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 Durham?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Durham 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 05:54, 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 Durham?

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Durham 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 Durham?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central to Durham 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 Durham. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Durham, 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 Durham?

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

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Durham?

London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Durham.

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

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

When are Cardiff Central to Durham Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Durham on Saturday 2nd August 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Saturday 2nd August
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
07:50 Cardiff Central13:10 Durham2 changesBristol Parkway
Birmingham New Street
5 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
08:51 Cardiff Central14:19 Durham1 changeBristol Parkway
5 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
09:28 Cardiff Central15:09 Durham2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Birmingham New Street
5 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
10:20 Cardiff Central16:15 Durham1 changeBristol Parkway
5 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
11:20 Cardiff Central17:15 Durham1 changeBristol Parkway
5 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
12:20 Cardiff Central18:15 Durham1 changeBristol Parkway
5 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
13:20 Cardiff Central19:16 Durham1 changeBristol Parkway
5 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
13:30 Cardiff Central19:49 Durham2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Birmingham New Street
6 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
14:41 Cardiff Central20:16 Durham2 changesLondon Paddington
London Kings Cross
5 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
15:20 Cardiff Central21:14 Durham1 changeBristol Parkway
5 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
16:27 Cardiff Central22:11 Durham2 changesBristol Temple Meads
Birmingham New Street
5 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
17:18 Cardiff Central22:48 Durham2 changesLondon Paddington
London Kings Cross
5 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Durham 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 Durham start from as little as £31.40

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.

Off Peak fares from Cardiff Central to Durham start from £206.80 one way, or £208.30 return

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 Durham are available for £223.30 one way, or £446.40 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Cardiff Central to Durham is £54.05 & the average saving on this route is £28.41!

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 Durham Station

Discover the Charm of Durham Train Station

Nestled in the heart of the North East of England, Durham train station offers a delightful mix of modern amenities and easy access to the historical city of Durham. With its imposing, picturesque views of the Durham Castle and Cathedral, this station is more than just a stop on your journey; it's the perfect introduction to the charm and splendor of Durham. Here, we will dive into the facilities available to passengers, the transport links that connect you to every corner of the UK, and some of the popular destinations you might want to explore from Durham train station.

Station Amenities and Facilities

Durham train station is well-equipped with a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable journey for all travelers. The ticket office is open from 06:00 to 18:00 on weekdays, 07:00 to 17:00 on Saturdays, and 09:00 to 16:00 on Sundays. For those preferring the convenience of self-service, ticket machines are available with accessible options. Smartcards can also be issued and validated at this station.

Help and support facilities include customer information points, departure and arrival screens, and an induction loop system. Staff assistance is available on Sundays from 07:00 to 23:59, ensuring help is at hand for those who need it. CCTV coverage adds an extra layer of security for all passengers.

The station promotes accessibility with step-free access to all platforms, accessible ticket machines, and heated waiting rooms designed to provide a comfortable experience for everyone. Additionally, baby changing facilities and RADAR key accessible toilets are available on both platforms, highlighting the station's commitment to inclusivity.

Onward Travel and Connections

Durham train station serves as a gateway to a plethora of onward travel options. For those in need of a taxi, there is a taxi rank available, making trips into the city or beyond seamless. Although advance taxi bookings are unnecessary, if you prefer to plan ahead, you can call 0191 371 2727.

Local bus services are readily accessible, and comprehensive travel information can be downloaded here. Whether you're continuing your journey by train to nearby cities such as Newcastle or Leeds, or venturing further afield to Manchester Piccadilly or London Kings Cross, the connections are extensive. If your travels include international flights, you can reach Durham Tees Valley or Newcastle airports with ease via combined train and bus or metro routes.

Popular Destinations from Durham

Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, Durham train station offers convenient links to numerous popular destinations. Board a train to explore the bustling city of Newcastle, delve into the rich history of York, or peruse the vibrant offerings of Edinburgh. For those interested in a city life mix, Manchester and Leeds are within easy reach. The station connects passengers effortlessly to key UK cities, making it an ideal starting point for your travels.

Experience the Journey

Durham train station not only meets the immediate needs of travelers with its comprehensive amenities and seamless onward travel connections, but it also sets the tone for your journey by immersing you in the historical and cultural richness of the area. As you plan your next trip, consider Durham not just as a travel hub but as a first step into the captivating stories that await in the North East of England. Whether you are setting off to discover local gems or rushing to meet business commitments, Durham stands ready to serve as your ideal departure point.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central