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Trains from Cardiff Queen Street to
Canterbury East

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Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East by train

A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East takes about 4hrs 59 mins on average, covering roughly 183 miles (295 kilometres). With around 30 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 £31.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East Key Stats

Arrival Station

Canterbury East

Departure Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Frequency

30trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 11 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:44 / 23:53

Distance

183miles
(295 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.00

Travelling from Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East 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 4hrs 59 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Canterbury East), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 11 mins. With roughly 30 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 183-mile (295 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, GWR, Southeastern, 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 £31.00 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 Canterbury East!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Queen Street and Canterbury East

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

The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Canterbury East by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 59 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 11 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East is 4hrs 11 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East can start from as little as £31.00 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 Canterbury East?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Canterbury East vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 30 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:44, 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 Canterbury East?

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Canterbury East 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 Canterbury East?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Queen Street & Canterbury East. However, there are 30 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East?

Transport for Wales, GWR and Southeastern are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Canterbury East.

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

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

When are Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East on Tuesday 6th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 6th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
16:07 Cardiff Queen Street20:40 Canterbury East3 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London Victoria
4 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
16:37 Cardiff Queen Street20:55 Canterbury East4 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
17:04 Cardiff Queen Street21:40 Canterbury East3 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London Victoria
4 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
17:37 Cardiff Queen Street21:55 Canterbury East4 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
18:04 Cardiff Queen Street22:33 Canterbury East4 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London St Pancras International
Dover Priory
4 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
19:04 Cardiff Queen Street23:49 Canterbury East3 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London Victoria
4 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
20:04 Cardiff Queen Street00:55 Canterbury East4 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London St Pancras International
4 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
21:08 Cardiff Queen Street07:31 Canterbury East3 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London Victoria
10 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
23:50 Cardiff Queen Street09:55 Canterbury East4 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London St Pancras International
10 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Queen Street to Canterbury East 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 Canterbury East start from as little as £31.00

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 Queen Street to Canterbury East start from £115.20 one way, or £116.20 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 Queen Street to Canterbury East are available for £102.00 one way, or £102.70 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 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 Canterbury East Station

Discover Canterbury East Train Station

Welcome to Canterbury East train station, a charming gateway to the historic city of Canterbury. This convenient station, nestled in the county of Kent, offers an array of services designed to make your travel experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re commuting for work, planning a day out in Canterbury, or setting off on an adventure further afield, the station provides plenty of facilities to help you along the way.

Facilities at Canterbury East

At Canterbury East, buying and collecting tickets is a breeze. The ticket office is open from 06:10 to 20:20 on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 07:30 to 19:00 on Sundays. If you’re an early bird or a late traveler, rest assured, ticket machines are available when the station building is open, making collecting pre-purchased tickets straightforward. You’ll also find smartcard services and an induction loop to assist those with hearing impairments.

Accessibility is a priority here, with step-free access, ramps available for train access, and accessible toilets to ensure a comfortable transit experience. Although there isn’t a waiting room, there are seating areas where you can relax while awaiting your train. For those keen on cycling, there are 46 bicycle storage spaces under shelter on Platform 2. While the station does not offer cycle hire facilities, you are encouraged to use the stands provided, though you do so at your own risk.

Onward Travel Options

When it comes to onward travel, Canterbury East is well connected. The taxi rank is conveniently situated at the front of the station, and for those moments when train services are disrupted, replacement bus services are available from Station Road East, just across from the station entrance. Planning a bus journey? Detailed information to help with your route planning is accessible in a printable format here.

If you're hiring a car, nearby facilities are available although the station itself doesn't offer this service directly. For those driving to the station, a 24-hour car park operated by APCOA Parking offers 144 spaces with an off-peak evening rate of just £1.50 after 6 PM. Regular parking charges start from £4.90 for daily parking. Car park security is bolstered by CCTV, ensuring peace of mind while you travel.

Exciting Destinations Easily Accessible from Canterbury East

Canterbury East is more than just a transit point—it's your portal to exploring both local and distant attractions. From here, you can swiftly reach bustling cities such as London St Pancras International and London Victoria. For those preferring a more local exploration, trips to seaside towns like Whitstable, or historical sites like Dover Priory, are within easy reach. Discover routes to other nearby destinations including Faversham, Rainham (Kent), and Bromley South, each offering their unique attractions and experiences.

Embark on Your Journey

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, Canterbury East station provides everything you need for a comfortable start. From secure parking, easy access for all, and helpful customer service, this station ensures your travel is hassle-free. Why wait? Dive into your next adventure with a train journey departing from Canterbury East, and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures this part of the UK has to offer. After all, a journey from Canterbury East is a gateway to endless possibilities.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Queen Street