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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Irlam

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Cardiff Central to Irlam by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Irlam takes about 4hrs 55 mins on average, covering roughly 139 miles (223 kilometres). With around 26 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 £26.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Irlam Key Stats

Arrival Station

Irlam

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

26trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 9 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:33 / 23:54

Distance

139miles
(223 km)

5 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£26.90

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Irlam by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Irlam 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 55 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Irlam), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 9 mins. With roughly 26 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 139-mile (223 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, 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 £26.90 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 Irlam!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Irlam

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

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Irlam by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 55 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 9 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Irlam is 4hrs 9 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Irlam can start from as little as £26.90 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 Irlam?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Irlam vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 26 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:54.

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

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Central & Irlam. However, there are 26 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Irlam?

First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales and West Midlands Trains are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Irlam.

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

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

When are Cardiff Central to Irlam Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Irlam on Thursday 1st May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 1st May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
04:33 Cardiff Central09:02 Irlam2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Oxford Road
4 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
05:19 Cardiff Central09:53 Irlam2 changesChester
Liverpool South Parkway
4 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
05:49 Cardiff Central10:04 Irlam2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Oxford Road
4 hrs 15 mins Get Tickets
06:46 Cardiff Central11:02 Irlam2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Oxford Road
4 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
07:19 Cardiff Central11:53 Irlam2 changesChester
Liverpool South Parkway
4 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
07:53 Cardiff Central12:04 Irlam2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Oxford Road
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
08:53 Cardiff Central13:02 Irlam2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Oxford Road
4 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
09:23 Cardiff Central13:53 Irlam2 changesChester
Liverpool South Parkway
4 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
09:53 Cardiff Central14:04 Irlam2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Oxford Road
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
10:53 Cardiff Central15:02 Irlam2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Oxford Road
4 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
11:23 Cardiff Central15:53 Irlam2 changesChester
Liverpool South Parkway
4 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
11:53 Cardiff Central16:04 Irlam2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Manchester Oxford Road
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Irlam 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 Irlam start from as little as £26.90

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 Irlam are available for £88.50 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 Irlam Station

Exploring Irlam Train Station: Your Gateway to Great Journeys

Nestled in the Salford district of Greater Manchester, Irlam train station serves as a humble yet pivotal hub for travelers venturing in and out of the area. With its straightforward facilities and access to major transport links, Irlam embraces a blend of functionality and community charm, making it an essential stop for residents and visitors alike. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on an exciting adventure, Irlam station's networked reach offers you a myriad of travel opportunities.

Facilities and Amenities at Irlam Station

The station provides the vital amenities needed for a smooth journey. Although Irlam lacks a traditional ticket office, ticket machines are readily available for easy online ticket collection. For those wondering about accessibility, the station provides partial step-free access, with tactile paving only on platforms 2 and 3. Assistance can be sought on the platform through trained conductors, offering an additional layer of support to ensure you catch your train without a hitch. However, travelers with specific mobility needs should note the absence of accessible ticket machines and waiting rooms, alongside the limited facilities such as no accessible taxis or wheelchairs available on site.

In terms of safety and security, the presence of CCTV offers some peace of mind, though it's worth mentioning that the station experiences a shortage of facilities for cyclists, as there are no bicycle storage spaces available. While there are some seating areas, comforts like Wi-Fi, refreshment facilities, or shopping options are not present. Despite these limitations, Irlam remains a conveniently located and efficiently managed station.

Transport Links to and from Irlam Station

Onward travel from Irlam is well-supported thanks to its strategic transport links. Bus services frequent both sides of Liverpool Road, facilitating easy connections to Warrington, Manchester, or Eccles. If rail services are interrupted, rail replacement buses are available with pickup points located conveniently on Liverpool Road, about 350m from the station entrance. For those looking to continue their journey by taxi, services can be arranged through Cab4You, ensuring onward travel is straightforward and flexible.

Popular Routes from Irlam Train Station

Embarking on a journey from Irlam station opens a gateway to numerous destinations. Commuters and explorers will find frequent connections to vibrant cities like Manchester Oxford Road and Liverpool Lime Street, offering cultural, economic, and leisure opportunities. Discover quaint locales like Birchwood or venture further to bustling centers such as London Euston. Additionally, for travelers flying, convenient routes to Manchester Airport may prove advantageous for both business and leisure.

Your Rail Adventure Awaits

While modest, Irlam train station stands as a vital part of the rail network, facilitating journeys both near and far. Whether you're embarking on a quick trip into the city or planning a cross-country adventure, the station offers a platform to a myriad of experiences. To make the most of your travels, remember to plan ahead, ensure your tickets are ready, and explore the many destinations accessible from this simple yet strategic hub. Book your rail tickets today and unlock the many experiences that await from Irlam station. Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central