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Trains from Cardiff Queen Street to
Aintree

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Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree by train

A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree takes about 5hrs on average, covering roughly 138 miles (222 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 £28.80, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree Key Stats

Arrival Station

Aintree

Departure Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Frequency

21trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 29 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:33 / 23:50

Distance

138miles
(222 km)

3 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£28.80

Travelling from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree by Train

Hop on a Train from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree 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. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Aintree), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 29 mins. With roughly 21 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 138-mile (222 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Merseyrail, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, West Midlands Trains, 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 Aintree!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree

Curious about your trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree? 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 Queen Street and Aintree by train?

The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 29 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree is 4hrs 29 mins.

How much does the train from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree cost?

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree 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 Queen Street and Aintree?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree 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 06:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:50.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree?

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Aintree, 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 Queen Street to Aintree?

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

What train companies run services from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree?

Merseyrail, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales and West Midlands Trains are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Aintree?

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

When are Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree on Wednesday 30th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Wednesday 30th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
18:12 Cardiff Queen Street22:41 Aintree3 changesCardiff Central
Chester
Moorfields
4 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
18:42 Cardiff Queen Street00:03 Aintree4 changesCardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool Central
5 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
21:57 Cardiff Queen Street06:56 Aintree3 changesCardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool South Parkway
8 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
23:34 Cardiff Queen Street09:11 Aintree3 changesCardiff Central
Crewe
Liverpool South Parkway
9 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Queen Street to Aintree 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 Queen Street to Aintree 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.

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 Queen Street to Aintree are available for £94.90 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 Queen Street Station

Exploring Cardiff Queen Street Train Station

Welcome to Cardiff Queen Street train station, a key hub in the heart of Wales' lively capital city. Whether you're a local commuter hopping between city stops or a visitor setting off to explore South Wales, Cardiff Queen Street offers all the essentials you might need for a smooth journey. Here, modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the traditional architecture of Cardiff’s bustling center.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Queen Street station is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and accessible travel experience. The ticket office operates from as early as 6 am on weekdays and has plenty of ticket machines available throughout the station. You can collect tickets bought online from these machines and they're easily accessible near the main entrance. The station offers step-free access across all platforms via lifts, making it highly accessible. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are conveniently located on Platform 4 for those traveling with little ones.

For those who might need extra assistance, staff is available to help from 05:15 to midnight on most days. Despite the lack of eateries or shops, the station offers public Wi-Fi so you can stay connected on the go. If cycling is your preferred mode to and from the station, you'll find ample cycle storage with CCTV coverage for peace of mind. Remember, the bustling streets of Cardiff offer numerous nearby cafes and shops to grab a bite or essentials before you catch your train.

Transport Connections

Getting to and from Cardiff Queen Street is a breeze with several options available. There are local bus services with limited offerings right outside the station on weekdays. During rail disruptions, replacement bus services are set up at bus stops nearby, ensuring you aren't left stranded. However, taxis aren't as readily accessible since there are no designated accessible taxi points or spaces.

Popular Destinations

From Cardiff Queen Street, you're well-positioned to explore various places quickly and conveniently. Head down to Cardiff Bay for stunning waterfront views or make your way to Cardiff Central, the city's flagship station. For a taste of local culture, a short ride to Pontypridd might be just what you're looking for.

Planning a longer journey? Don't miss the chance to visit Newport in South Wales or explore the charm of Caerphilly. With reliable connections, your journey starts here.

Closing Remarks

Cardiff Queen Street is more than just a connecting point—it's an invitation to explore the rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes Wales has to offer. Whether you're commuting for work or touring the sights, this station is your gateway to endless adventures. Travel happy and let Cardiff Queen Street set your journey in motion.

Ready to plan your trip? Dive into what's next and make the most of your travel experience from Cardiff Queen Street! Safe travels!

Everything you need to know about Aintree Station

Discovering Aintree Train Station

Aintree Train Station, located in the bustling Merseyside borough, is a key access point for both commuters and visitors alike. Whether you're heading to the races or exploring the surrounding areas, this station provides a range of facilities to ensure your journey is smooth and convenient. Dive into what makes Aintree Train Station stand out and prepare for your next adventure.

Station Facilities and Accessibility

At Aintree Station, the ticket office operates from 05:30 to 11:30 daily, allowing passengers to buy and collect tickets comfortably. Although there are no ticket machines, you can pick up tickets ordered online directly from the ticket office. Smartcards are another option, with facilities to issue and validate these cards readily available.

For those requiring assistance, staff are on hand to help from early morning until late into the night, ensuring an accessible experience for everyone. The station is equipped with step-free access to all platforms, allowing ease of movement for those with mobility challenges. Induction loops and ramps for train access enhance accessibility further, though unfortunately, there are no accessible toilets or waiting rooms available.

Travel and Onward Connections

Though Aintree Station doesn't have a taxi rank, various onward travel options are available. Conveniently located near major roads, it acts as a hub for bus connections, which can be easily planned via Merseytravel, or by contacting Traveline.

If you’re flying in or out, the nearest airport, Liverpool John Lennon, is just a bus ride away. Combined Rail/Bus ticket options are available, making it even easier to switch between transport modes without hassle.

Popular Train Routes

When departing from Aintree, passengers can enjoy a plethora of popular routes that cater to both local and further afield destinations. For those gearing up for urban exploration or a leisurely day out, you can easily catch trains to:

These connections illustrate how Aintree Station is not just a commuter stop but a key transit point, making it a vital cog in the regional transport network.

Additional Conveniences

While waiting for your train, vending machines for cold drinks and snacks offer a quick refreshment opportunity. The station also provides parking availability with 104 spaces, including seven accessible spaces. Cyclists can also rejoice with 69 bike storage spaces under CCTV surveillance.

Final Thoughts on Aintree Train Station

Aintree Train Station proves itself as a functional and essential station, bridging local attractions with wider commutes. Even with its vintage charm, it doesn’t compromise on modern amenities and accessibility features. Whether you're catching the next train to the city or venturing out for a leisurely trip, Aintree offers a reliable platform to start your journey.

So why wait? Plan your trip, book your tickets, and let Aintree Station be your launch pad to memorable experiences.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Queen Street