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Trains from Cardiff Queen Street to
Atherton

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Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton by train

A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton takes about 5hrs 15 mins on average, covering roughly 144 miles (232 kilometres). With around 19 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 £27.40, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton Key Stats

Arrival Station

Atherton

Departure Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Frequency

19trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 40 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:33 / 23:53

Distance

144miles
(232 km)

2 Routes

2 Train Operators

Prices

from£27.40

Travelling from Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton 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 15 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Atherton), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 40 mins. With roughly 19 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 144-mile (232 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of 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 £27.40 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 Atherton!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Queen Street and Atherton

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

The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Atherton by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 15 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 40 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton is 4hrs 40 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton can start from as little as £27.40 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 Atherton?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Atherton vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 19 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:53.

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

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Atherton 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 Atherton?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Queen Street & Atherton. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.

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

Transport for Wales and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Atherton.

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

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

When are Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton on Monday 5th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 5th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:33 Cardiff Queen Street11:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
07:42 Cardiff Queen Street12:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
08:42 Cardiff Queen Street13:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
09:42 Cardiff Queen Street14:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
10:42 Cardiff Queen Street15:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
11:42 Cardiff Queen Street16:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
12:42 Cardiff Queen Street17:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
13:42 Cardiff Queen Street18:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
14:37 Cardiff Queen Street19:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
15:37 Cardiff Queen Street20:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
16:42 Cardiff Queen Street21:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
17:42 Cardiff Queen Street22:22 Atherton3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Salford Crescent
4 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Queen Street to Atherton 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 Atherton start from as little as £27.40

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 Atherton are available for £100.10 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 Atherton Station

Atherton Train Station: Your Gateway to Greater Manchester

Nestled amidst the vibrant network of Northern England's railway links, Atherton Train Station serves as a convenient connector for both locals and visitors navigating the Greater Manchester region. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the rich cultural heritage of nearby cities, Atherton station can be your launching pad for unforgettable journeys.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Atherton station offers several amenities to enhance your travel experience. The station is equipped with a ticket office operational from early morning till late at night, ensuring you can grab your tickets conveniently before starting your journey. Ticket machines facilitate the collection of online tickets, although they currently lack accessibility features. This station also supports smartcards, although no validators are available on-site.

For assistance and support, station staff are on hand to aid passengers during specified hours, with further help available through the helpline at any time. While there are no waiting rooms or lounging facilities, the station is equipped with step-free access to all platforms, making it accessible for those with mobility concerns. Unfortunately, facilities such as toilets, refreshment outlets, and parking surveillance are not available, though the car park offers 64 spaces free of charge.

Travel Connections at Atherton

Atherton station provides a variety of transport links to make your onward journey seamless. Whether it's a short bus ride or a taxi trip to your next destination, the station's connectivity aids hassle-free travel. Bus pickups and taxi services are readily available, and for the well-prepared traveler, there’s a handy link to help plan your journey online. Although bicycle hire isn't an option at the station, bicycle storage is available with some uncovered spaces.

Popular Destinations from Atherton

Embark on exciting adventures from Atherton by hopping on trains to popular destinations such as Manchester Victoria, Salford Central, and Wigan Wallgate. For those looking to venture further, convenient links exist to bigger cities like Leeds, the historic precincts of Liverpool, or even down to London Euston. Whether you're visiting for business, education, or leisure, our routes cover all major destinations across the country.

For leisure seekers, a trip to Blackpool North provides an escape to the seaside, while a short commute to Manchester Airport offers international connectivities. Wherever your journey takes you, Atherton station ensures a comfortable start.

Final Thoughts on Atherton Station

Atherton Train Station leverages its strategic location within the UK’s rail network to facilitate convenient, efficient travel. The station’s amenities support a wide range of traveler needs and offer essential connections, despite its limited in-house facilities. The future might bring enhancements to its existing offerings, thus enabling an even more comfortable transit experience.

So whether you're heading to work in Manchester or planning a holiday to the charming northern town of Wigan, Atherton Station will set your journey off on the right track. For travel schedules, ticket bookings, and planning your next adventure — make Atherton a part of your itinerary today!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Queen Street