A train trip from Cardiff Central to Lancaster takes about 6hrs 2 mins on average, covering roughly 178 miles (287 kilometres). With around 19 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.
Arrival Station | Lancaster |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Central |
Frequency | 19trains per day |
Journey Time | from4hrs 57 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:33 / 23:54 |
Distance | 178miles (287 km) |
5 Routes | Via Crewe & Preston (Lancs) Via Crewe & Manchester Piccadilly Via Manchester Piccadilly & Preston (Lancs) Via Crewe Via Newport (South Wales) & Crewe |
4 Train Operators | Transport for Wales, First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail |
Prices | from£27.40 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Lancaster – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Lancaster 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 6hrs 2 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Lancaster), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 57 mins. With roughly 19 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 178-mile (287 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, 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 Lancaster!
The travel time between Cardiff Central and Lancaster by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 2 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 57 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Lancaster is 4hrs 57 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Lancaster 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Lancaster vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 19 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:54.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Lancaster typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Lancaster 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 Central and Lancaster. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Lancaster, 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 Central & Lancaster. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.
Transport for Wales, First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Lancaster.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Lancaster, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Monday 28th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 04:33 Cardiff Central | 09:08 Lancaster | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 35 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 05:49 Cardiff Central | 10:08 Lancaster | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 19 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 05:54 Cardiff Central | 10:08 Lancaster | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Birmingham New Street | 4 hrs 14 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 06:46 Cardiff Central | 11:14 Lancaster | 2 changes | Crewe Preston (Lancs) | 4 hrs 28 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:19 Cardiff Central | 11:55 Lancaster | 2 changes | Chester Warrington Bank Quay | 4 hrs 36 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:53 Cardiff Central | 12:07 Lancaster | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 14 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:53 Cardiff Central | 13:08 Lancaster | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:53 Cardiff Central | 14:08 Lancaster | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:53 Cardiff Central | 15:18 Lancaster | 2 changes | Crewe Preston (Lancs) | 4 hrs 25 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:23 Cardiff Central | 15:55 Lancaster | 2 changes | Chester Warrington Bank Quay | 4 hrs 32 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:53 Cardiff Central | 16:07 Lancaster | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 14 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:53 Cardiff Central | 17:07 Lancaster | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 14 mins | Get Tickets | |
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Nestled in the heart of a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, Lancaster Train Station is your gateway not only to the city but also to countless adventures across the United Kingdom. Whether you're planning a quick visit to nearby Preston or a journey to vibrant cities like Edinburgh or London, Lancaster station promises a seamless travel experience. With its array of facilities and connections, this station stands ready to serve travelers with varied needs, from daily commuters to international tourists.
Lancaster Train Station is equipped with a range of facilities designed to enhance the traveler's journey. A welcoming ticket office is open daily from early morning until late evening and is complemented by ticket machines for those who prefer self-service. There’s good news for online purchasers too, as you can easily collect your tickets from the machines available on site. If accessibility is a priority, the station offers step-free access to all platforms, ensuring that everyone can navigate the station with ease. Additional support such as ramps, accessible ticket machines, and induction loops further enhance the station’s inclusivity.
Furthermore, the station aims to support travelers with amenities like accessible toilets and baby changing facilities. Waiting for your train doesn’t mean you’ll be left standing, as waiting rooms and ample seating arrangements are provided. Though there are no first-class lounges, everyone can enjoy the comfort offered in the waiting areas on platforms 3, 4, and 5.
Once you’re ready to continue your journey from Lancaster, there are several transport options available to make your onward journey effortless. Taxis are conveniently located adjacent to platform 3, and for those who prefer a scenic route, Lancaster’s bus connections are readily available with an accessible rail replacement service area nearby. For cyclists, the station offers covered bicycle stands and even bicycle hire through Leisure Lakes Bikes, providing 188 cycle spaces spread across the platforms.
One brilliant aspect of Lancaster is its strategic location and how it connects you to popular destinations. You could easily catch one of the frequent trains to London Euston or plan a scenic escape to the Lake District by hopping on a train to Oxenholme from Lancaster Station. There are plenty of other exciting places to visit like Morecambe, Carlisle, and even further afield, Edinburgh Waverley.
Whether it's your first time visiting Lancaster or you’re a frequent traveler in the North West, Lancaster Train Station serves as more than just a transit point. Its rich offerings include not only efficiency and convenience but also a touch of the historic charm that the city is famous for. So, next time you’re traveling through, take a moment to use the facilities, perhaps indulge in a snack from the station's outlets, and feel at ease knowing that Lancaster Station is dedicated to meeting all your travel needs.
In conclusion, Lancaster Train Station is not just an entry and exit point but a gateway to exploring the rich texture of UK’s Northern region. With reliable facilities, seamless accessibility options, and excellent connectivity, your travel plans can unfold with ease and excitement. Remember to check for train times, book tickets in advance for the best fares, and enjoy the journey. And, as always, have a safe and pleasant trip from everyone here at Lancaster!