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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Leeds

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Cardiff Central to Leeds by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Leeds takes about 5hrs 21 mins on average, covering roughly 174 miles (280 kilometres). With around 22 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 £28.80, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Leeds Key Stats

Arrival Station

Leeds

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

22trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 7 mins

Changes

01 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:54 / 00:45

Distance

174miles
(280 km)

6 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£28.80

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Leeds by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Leeds 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 21 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Leeds), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 7 mins. With roughly 22 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 174-mile (280 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, GWR, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, 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 £28.80 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 Leeds!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Leeds

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

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Leeds by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 21 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 7 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Leeds is 4hrs 7 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Leeds can start from as little as £28.80 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 Leeds?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Leeds vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 22 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:54, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:45.

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

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

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

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

Yes! There are usually around 1 direct services per day from Cardiff Central to Leeds

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Leeds?

Transport for Wales, GWR, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Leeds.

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

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

When are Cardiff Central to Leeds Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Leeds on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:54 Cardiff Central10:01 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
06:51 Cardiff Central11:02 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
07:49 Cardiff Central12:01 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 12 mins Get Tickets
08:45 Cardiff Central13:01 Leeds1 changeBirmingham New Street
4 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
09:45 Cardiff Central14:01 LeedsDirect4 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
09:49 Cardiff Central14:01 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 12 mins Get Tickets
10:45 Cardiff Central15:02 Leeds1 changeBirmingham New Street
4 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
11:50 Cardiff Central16:01 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
12:50 Cardiff Central17:01 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
13:50 Cardiff Central18:01 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
14:54 Cardiff Central19:04 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
15:54 Cardiff Central20:02 Leeds1 changeBristol Parkway
4 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Leeds 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 Leeds start from as little as £28.80

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 Leeds start from £158.00 one way, or £159.20 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 Leeds are available for £79.00 one way, or £132.50 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 Leeds is £185.40 & the average saving on this route is £58.06!

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 Leeds Station

Discovering Leeds Train Station

Leeds train station, one of the busiest railway hubs in the UK, is a vibrant gateway to the city and beyond. Whether you're embarking on a journey of exploration or commuting to and from work, Leeds station offers comprehensive facilities and connections to make your travel experience smooth and pleasant. Let's delve into the details and what you can expect as you navigate through this bustling transport hub.

Facilities and Services at Leeds Station

Leeds station is well-equipped with a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for all travelers. The ticket office operates extensive hours, from 04:45 to 23:59 on weekdays and slightly shorter hours on Sundays, ensuring you can plan your trip at almost any time. Additionally, there are numerous ticket machines available for ease of ticket collection, including accessible options for those requiring additional support.

For those needing a bit of guidance, there's plenty of help available. Staff at information points and ticket offices are ready to assist, and there are helpful signage and announcements throughout the station. Luggage storage is also available, should you wish to explore the local area without being weighed down by bags.

Accessibility and Comfort

Accessibility is a key feature at Leeds station, with step-free access across the entire building and platforms. For passengers with mobility issues, ramps and lifts are available, and assistance for getting to and from platforms can be arranged with the train operators. Although the station lacks customer help points, staff assistance is available for reassurance.

Passengers can find comfortable waiting areas, including a first-class lounge, and will be pleased to know there are accessible toilet facilities and baby changing stations on the premises. While there isn’t a general seating area, facilities are maintained to a high standard for all visitors.

Shopping and Refreshments

Travel essentials and cravings are covered with the various shops and eateries within the station. From a quick coffee to sit-down meals, you can enjoy a varied palette of options before or after your journey. There are also ATMs available for quick cash withdrawals, though currency exchange facilities are not available on-site.

Onward Travel from Leeds Station

Leeds train station serves as a convenient starting point for exploring both local areas and faraway destinations. Numerous bus and taxi services are readily accessible near the station. The Citybus is a useful means for covering short distances within Leeds city. Plus, travelers aiming for a more cost-effective journey might consider purchasing a PLUSBUS ticket, which offers unlimited city bus travel at discounted rates when bought alongside train tickets.

Cyclists can make use of bike racks and the Bike and Go cycle hire service, ideal for those wanting to explore Leeds on two wheels. Car hires are also accessible for those requiring a more personal travel option upon their arrival.

Popular Routes from Leeds

What's on your itinerary? Leeds train station opens up a world of travel opportunities. Whether you're heading for the vibrancy of the capital with trains to London Kings Cross or exploring historic sites with trains to York, your journey begins here. For regional adventures, the station provides services to Manchester Victoria and closer destinations like Bradford Interchange.

Conclusion: Your Gateway to Travel

Whether Leeds is your starting point or ending destination, the station caters to all your travel needs. From expansive transport connections to modern amenities, it sets the stage for an easy, pleasant journey. So next time you're planning a trip, consider Leeds for seamless travel adventures.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central