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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Rufford

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Cardiff Central to Rufford by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Rufford takes about 5hrs 26 mins on average, covering roughly 150 miles (241 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 £28.20, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Rufford Key Stats

Arrival Station

Rufford

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

21trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 35 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:33 / 23:46

Distance

150miles
(241 km)

5 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£28.20

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Rufford by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Rufford 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 26 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Rufford), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 35 mins. With roughly 21 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 150-mile (241 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Merseyrail, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, GWR, 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 £28.20 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 Rufford!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Rufford

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

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Rufford by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 26 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 35 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Rufford is 4hrs 35 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Rufford can start from as little as £28.20 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 Rufford?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Rufford 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 23:46.

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

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

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

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

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

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Rufford?

Merseyrail, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, GWR and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Rufford.

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

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

When are Cardiff Central to Rufford Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Rufford on Saturday 2nd August 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Saturday 2nd August
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:43 Cardiff Central11:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
06:47 Cardiff Central11:29 Rufford3 changesBristol Parkway
Birmingham New Street
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
07:53 Cardiff Central12:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
08:54 Cardiff Central13:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
09:53 Cardiff Central14:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
10:52 Cardiff Central15:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
11:53 Cardiff Central16:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
12:52 Cardiff Central17:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
13:53 Cardiff Central18:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
14:52 Cardiff Central19:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
15:53 Cardiff Central20:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
16:52 Cardiff Central21:29 Rufford2 changesCrewe
Preston (Lancs)
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Rufford 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 Rufford start from as little as £28.20

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 Rufford start from £90.80 one way, or £129.80 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 Rufford are available for £100.50 one way, or £201.00 return

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 Rufford Station

Welcome to Rufford Train Station

Rufford Train Station, nestled in the picturesque village of Rufford in Lancashire, is a charming stop along the Northern rail line. Whether you're commuting to work, planning a day trip, or setting off on a UK-wide adventure, Rufford station acts as your gateway to discovering the beauty of Northern England and beyond. In this article, we’ll explore all you need to know about Rufford Station, from its facilities to travel connections and the popular destinations you can effortlessly reach from here.

Facilities and Amenities

Rufford Station is a quintessential small village station, offering the essential facilities needed for your rail journey. While there is no ticket office, travellers can easily use the available ticket machines to purchase or collect tickets bought online. It's wise to note that the station doesn’t offer accessible ticket machines, but an induction loop is available for those hard of hearing. Despite being unstaffed, there's help at hand through customer help points and a dedicated helpline available to assist travellers when needed.

Regarding accessibility, Rufford Station provides partial step-free access, classified as a Category B station. This means that while level access to both platforms is facilitated by ramps, the main pathways might require some assistance for those with mobility impairments. Sadly, there are no waiting rooms or toilets, which means planning ahead is crucial for long waits.

Travel Connections

Getting to and from Rufford Station couldn't be easier. Although there is no dedicated taxi stand, arrangements can be made through services like Cab4You. An excellent rail replacement service is available that facilitates travel from the station car park, ensuring continued connectivity even during service disruptions. For those who prefer road travel, bus services linked to Rufford can be navigated by contacting Busline at 0871 200 2233.

Exciting Destinations from Rufford

The beauty of Rufford is its easy access to a wide range of destinations. Whether you’re in the mood for the bustling metropolis of Liverpool, with quick connections to Liverpool Lime Street and Liverpool Central, or planning a leisure day in Ormskirk, you're in for a seamless journey. The picturesque routes can lead you from Rufford to the heart of Lancashire, with trains to Preston and Poulton-Le-Fylde. Perhaps you have grander travel plans? The line allows speedy travel to Manchester Piccadilly, or even all the way to London Euston. For those intrigued by tranquil landscapes, a trip to Windermere could be on the cards.

To find out more about the connections you can make, explore journeys like Rufford to Preston, Rufford to Poulton-Le-Fylde, or any of the other popular routes offered from Rufford Station.

Wrapping Up Your Journey

Embrace the convenience and charm of Rufford Train Station as you map out your next journey. Remember, while the station itself is minimalist, the extensive network available makes Rufford an excellent start or end point for Northern rail adventures. Don’t forget to plan your travel meticulously, considering the limited in-station facilities, and ensure your ticket is sorted ahead of time to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Ready to embark on a new journey? Rufford beckons with its connections to metropolitan hubs and scenic delights. Get your tickets, pack a bag, and let Rufford Station be the start of your next great adventure!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central