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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Rainhill

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Cardiff Central to Rainhill by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Rainhill takes about 5hrs 19 mins on average, covering roughly 135 miles (217 kilometres). With around 21 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 £31.30, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Rainhill Key Stats

Arrival Station

Rainhill

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

21trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 28 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:33 / 23:54

Distance

135miles
(217 km)

3 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.30

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Rainhill by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Rainhill 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 19 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Rainhill), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 28 mins. With roughly 21 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 135-mile (217 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, GWR, Transport for Wales, 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 £31.30 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 Rainhill!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Rainhill

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

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Rainhill by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 19 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 28 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Rainhill is 4hrs 28 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Rainhill can start from as little as £31.30 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 Rainhill?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Rainhill vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 21 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 Rainhill?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Central & Rainhill. However, there are 21 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Rainhill?

Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, GWR, Transport for Wales and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Rainhill.

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

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

When are Cardiff Central to Rainhill Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Rainhill 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
17:22 Cardiff Central21:30 Rainhill2 changesChester
Newton-Le-Willows
4 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
17:53 Cardiff Central22:21 Rainhill2 changesCrewe
Liverpool Lime Street
4 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
18:23 Cardiff Central00:05 Rainhill2 changesCrewe
Liverpool Lime Street
5 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
18:53 Cardiff Central00:35 Rainhill2 changesCrewe
Liverpool Lime Street
5 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
21:24 Cardiff Central06:00 Rainhill2 changesChester
Newton-Le-Willows
8 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
22:10 Cardiff Central07:20 Rainhill2 changesCrewe
Liverpool Lime Street
9 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
23:34 Cardiff Central09:30 Rainhill2 changesNewport (South Wales)
Manchester Piccadilly
9 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Rainhill 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 Rainhill start from as little as £31.30

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 Rainhill are available for £97.90 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 Rainhill Station

Welcome to Rainhill Train Station

Nestled in the heart of Merseyside, Rainhill Train Station offers a gateway to a rich tapestry of destinations across the UK. This station, while modest, packs a punch when it comes to connectivity and functionality, making it a vital hub for both local commuters and traveling adventurers. Whether you're planning a day trip to bustling cities, or a leisurely journey exploring the quiet countryside, Rainhill station serves as an important passage in your travel itinerary.

Facilities and Amenities at Rainhill Station

When it comes to conveniences, Rainhill Station is equipped with essential facilities to ensure a smooth travel experience. The ticket office operates from 6:00 AM to 11:50 PM on weekdays and 8:45 AM to midnight on Sundays, and is complemented by accessible ticket machines, although tickets bought online cannot be collected here. Induction loops for the hearing impaired and clear departure screens add to the station's accessibility. However, note that there are no waiting rooms, so travelers should plan accordingly during cold weather.

Although there is step-free access to both platforms, passengers needing to buy tickets before their journey on platform 2 should allow extra time for crossing over from platform 1. For more inclusive transport needs, Rainhill station provides an induction loop, but it does lack wheelchair availability on site. While luggage storage isn't provided, the station ensures safety with comprehensive CCTV coverage.

Onward Travel Links

For those looking to continue their journey from Rainhill, there are multiple transport links available. The station is serviced by rail replacement services, providing pickups and drop-offs right at the bus stop outside the station entrance. Taxis are readily available and can be booked through Northern Railway’s dedicated service, Cab 4 You. While there currently isn't a bicycle hire option at the station, bus services can be accessed through Busline at 0871 200 2233.

Popular Destinations from Rainhill

Rainhill’s strategic location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring both vibrant cities and serene landscapes. Whether you fancy a trip to the cultural hub of Liverpool Lime Street or a venturesome jaunt to Manchester Piccadilly, your options are plenty. Other popular destinations include London Euston for those travelling to the capital and Chester for a touch of historical ambiance.

Would-be travelers can easily plan their routes with Rainhill as their starting point, exploring nearby spots like Lea Green or venturing further afield to Manchester Airport for international travel.

An Inviting Close

Although Rainhill Station might not offer luxurious amenities or an array of shops, it does embody the charm of simplicity and efficiency, making it a favorite for regular commuters and one-off travelers alike. With its robust network connections, the station is perfectly poised to help you embark on your next journey be it near or far. So, take a leap, purchase your tickets, and start your adventure from Rainhill Train Station today!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central