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Trains from Cardiff Queen Street to
London Waterloo East

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Cardiff Queen Street to London Waterloo East by train

A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to London Waterloo East takes about 3hrs 5 mins on average, covering roughly 131 miles (212 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 London Waterloo East Key Stats

Arrival Station

London Waterloo East

Departure Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Frequency

30trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 59 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:44 / 23:53

Distance

131miles
(212 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.00

Travelling from Cardiff Queen Street to London Waterloo East by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to London Waterloo 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 3hrs 5 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to London Waterloo East), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 59 mins. With roughly 30 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 131-mile (212 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of GWR, Transport for Wales, 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 London Waterloo East!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Queen Street and London Waterloo East

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

The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and London Waterloo East by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 5 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 59 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to London Waterloo East is 2hrs 59 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo East?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo East?

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

Amenities on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo East. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo East?

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

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

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

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

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Queen Street and London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo East Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Queen Street to London Waterloo 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
21:08 Cardiff Queen Street00:03 London Waterloo East3 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London Charing Cross
2 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
23:50 Cardiff Queen Street08:13 London Waterloo East3 changesCardiff Central
London Paddington
London Charing Cross
8 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Queen Street to London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo 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 London Waterloo East start from £57.60 one way, or £98.80 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 Queen Street to London Waterloo East are available for £147.10 one way, or £294.20 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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Queen Street