A train trip from Cardiff Central to Porthmadog takes about 5hrs 37 mins on average, covering roughly 108 miles (174 kilometres). With around 7 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 £17.60, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Porthmadog |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Central |
Frequency | 7trains per day |
Journey Time | from5hrs 29 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:32 / 20:26 |
Distance | 108miles (174 km) |
2 Routes | Via Shrewsbury & Machynlleth Via Shrewsbury |
1 Train Operators | Transport for Wales |
Prices | from£17.60 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Porthmadog – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Porthmadog 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 37 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Porthmadog), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 5hrs 29 mins. With roughly 7 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 108-mile (174 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, 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 £17.60 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 Porthmadog!
The travel time between Cardiff Central and Porthmadog by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 37 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 29 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Porthmadog is 5hrs 29 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Porthmadog can start from as little as £17.60 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 Porthmadog vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 7 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:32, and the last train of the day leaves at 20:26.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Porthmadog typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Porthmadog 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 Porthmadog. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Porthmadog, 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 & Porthmadog. However, there are 7 possible journeys which require a change.
Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Porthmadog.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Porthmadog, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Sunday 15th June | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 12:40 Cardiff Central | 18:55 Porthmadog | 1 change | Shrewsbury | 6 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:19 Cardiff Central | 20:44 Porthmadog | 1 change | Shrewsbury | 5 hrs 25 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:36 Cardiff Central | 12:51 Porthmadog | 2 changes | Port Talbot Parkway Shrewsbury | 13 hrs 15 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.
Porthmadog, a charming coastal town located in Gwynedd, Wales, is known for its beautiful views and rich history. It is a gateway to the stunning landscapes of Snowdonia and a favored starting point for explorers of the Welsh heritage railways. If you're planning to travel by rail, Porthmadog train station offers a convenient point of entry to this enchanting region. While the station may be modest, its connections and charm add to its character. Thoroughly understanding the station's facilities and connections will ensure your trip is comfortable and well-planned.
While Porthmadog train station might not boast an array of facilities, it serves its purpose well for local and visiting travelers alike. There isn’t a ticket office or ticket machines, so it’s advisable to purchase tickets online or via other available platforms before arriving at the station. For those needing assistance, the station supports relevant accessibility certifications and offers step-free access. Step-free access is available to Platform 1 and 2, with the convenience of a level crossing between them.
However, services such as accessible toilets and waiting rooms are absent, and facilities for refreshments or shopping aren't available either. On the bright side, there is a clearly visible seating area for passengers to rest while waiting for their trains. The station’s car park is free and open 24 hours a day, though it provides only six spaces with no specific accessible parking.
For those looking to explore more of Porthmadog and its surrounding areas, local bus services are available from the station. They run to Gwastadnant, Caernarfon, Pwllheli, and Beddgelert, ensuring seamless onward travel for visitors and locals. While there are no cycles for hire directly at the station, the town itself offers various bike hire options should you wish to explore on two wheels. The rail replacement bus services, when needed, can be accessed conveniently from the station's car park.
Porthmadog is not only a starting point but also a launchpad to a range of appealing destinations across Wales. Some favorite routes include trips from Porthmadog to Pwllheli, known for its sweeping beaches, or to the picturesque village of Criccieth, which is famed for its historic castle. For those intending to venture further, journeys from Porthmadog to cities like Birmingham New Street or Wolverhampton are also available, providing a taste of Wales beyond its rural settings.
For the wildlife enthusiasts and hikers, hopping on a train to Harlech or Aberdovey offers breathtaking scenery and a blend of history and nature. Porthmadog's connections extend the possibility of discovering the diverse and rich experiences the landscape of Wales offers.
Whether you're a visitor attracted by the promises of coastal charm or a local planning a journey, Porthmadog train station is a noteworthy junction. Its quaint charm is underpinned by the dramatic backdrops of North Wales, offering a journey worth taking. As you plan your trip to or from Porthmadog, consider buying your tickets online to ensure easy travel, and capitalize on the efficient network of connections that can take you across the region and beyond. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the magical blend of serenity and adventure with a railway journey starting from Porthmadog!