A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Piccadilly takes about 4hrs 15 mins on average, covering roughly 143 miles (231 kilometres). With around 18 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 £28.30, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Manchester Piccadilly |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Queen Street |
Frequency | 18trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 31 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:31 / 23:03 |
Distance | 143miles (231 km) |
2 Routes | Via Cardiff Central Via Cardiff Central & Crewe |
3 Train Operators | Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail |
Prices | from£28.30 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Piccadilly – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Piccadilly 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 15 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Manchester Piccadilly), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 31 mins. With roughly 18 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 143-mile (231 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, 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 £28.30 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 Manchester Piccadilly!
The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 15 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 31 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Piccadilly is 3hrs 31 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Piccadilly can start from as little as £28.30 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 18 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:31, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:03.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Piccadilly typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Piccadilly can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Piccadilly. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Piccadilly, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Queen Street & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 18 possible journeys which require a change.
Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Piccadilly.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Piccadilly, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Tuesday 3rd June | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 06:13 Cardiff Queen Street | 09:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 46 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 06:31 Cardiff Queen Street | 10:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 42 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:12 Cardiff Queen Street | 10:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 47 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 11:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:59 Cardiff Queen Street | 11:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Bristol Parkway | 4 hrs | Get Tickets | |
| 08:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 12:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:07 Cardiff Queen Street | 12:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 13:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:59 Cardiff Queen Street | 13:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Bristol Parkway | 4 hrs | Get Tickets | |
| 10:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 14:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:59 Cardiff Queen Street | 14:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Bristol Parkway | 4 hrs | Get Tickets | |
| 11:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 15:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Manchester Piccadilly is an iconic travel hub, bustling with energy and packed with features to smooth your journey. Serving millions of passengers each year, it stands as a crucial entry and exit point for both the city of Manchester and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a daily commuter or a tourist navigating the UK rail system, understanding the facilities and services at Manchester Piccadilly can enhance your travel experience significantly.
Manchester Piccadilly expertly caters to passenger needs with a variety of facilities. The ticket office operates diligently from as early as 4:30 am to 10:30 pm through the week, ensuring you can grab a ticket for those early morning travels. For those tech-savvy commuters, ticket machines are readily available and accessible, allowing smooth online ticket collection. The station is well-equipped for accessibility; offering step-free access, ramps, and tactile warning strips for the visually impaired make it a user-friendly place for all travelers.
The station boasts free public Wi-Fi, ATM machines, and a plethora of shops and dining options. Coffee lovers will appreciate the numerous kiosks, while those in need of essentials can visit the mini supermarkets and pharmacies located within the station. The station even went the extra mile to ensure comfort by providing lounges, including a 1st Class Lounge and an Assisted Travel Lounge, making it an amenable waiting experience.
Getting to and from Manchester Piccadilly is a breeze with its robust transport links. Metrolink trams connect you to key destinations like Bury, Rochdale, and Manchester Airport, among others. For those preferring buses, a network of frequent local services are operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach'. There's also a free bus service that runs every ten minutes around the city center—a convenient option for quick city hops.
The taxi rank located at the Fairfield Street exit offers service between 2 am to 5 am, giving you round-the-clock availability. If you're looking to explore the city on two wheels, Brompton bicycles are available for hire with two flexible tariffs. Additionally, if you're embarking on a flight, Manchester International Airport is just 9-10 miles away with several direct train services throughout the day. Car hire agents are also a short walk from the station, providing flexibility in travel.
If you have a penchant for exploring, Manchester Piccadilly serves as the starting point for many fascinating journeys. The station offers direct links to major destinations such as London Euston, Liverpool Lime Street, and Glasgow Central. Local routes include convenient trips to nearby spots like Stockport and Manchester Airport, ensuring you're never far from a new adventure.
Whether your travels stem from business, leisure, or curiosity, Manchester Piccadilly is more than just a train station—it's a gateway to new experiences and connections. Leveraging its exceptional facilities and detailed information will set you up for a successful journey, unlocking the vast and vibrant landscapes of the UK. Don't just arrive; embark on your journey with enthusiasm and ease from Manchester Piccadilly, where the rhythm of the railways meets the heartbeat of the city.