A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Victoria takes about 4hrs 25 mins on average, covering roughly 144 miles (231 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 £31.60, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Manchester Victoria |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Queen Street |
Frequency | 30trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 52 mins |
Changes | 2-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:13 / 23:53 |
Distance | 144miles (231 km) |
6 Routes | Via Cardiff Central & Bristol Parkway & Manchester Piccadilly Via Cardiff Central & Manchester Piccadilly & Manchester Central Zone Via Cardiff Central & Chester Via Cardiff Central & Crewe & Manchester Piccadilly Via Cardiff Central & Manchester Piccadilly Via Cardiff Central & Chester & Manchester Piccadilly |
6 Train Operators | GWR, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast |
Prices | from£31.60 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Victoria – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Victoria 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 25 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Manchester Victoria), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 52 mins. With roughly 30 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 144-mile (231 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of GWR, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, 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 £31.60 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 Victoria!
The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Victoria by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 25 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 52 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Victoria is 3hrs 52 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to Manchester Victoria can start from as little as £31.60 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 Victoria 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 06:13, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:53.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Victoria typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Victoria 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 Victoria. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Victoria, 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 Victoria. However, there are 30 possible journeys which require a change.
GWR, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail, CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Victoria.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Manchester Victoria, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Tuesday 6th May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 15:37 Cardiff Queen Street | 19:36 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:04 Cardiff Queen Street | 20:09 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Crewe Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 5 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:07 Cardiff Queen Street | 20:31 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Bristol Parkway Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 24 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 20:37 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 3 hrs 55 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:07 Cardiff Queen Street | 21:18 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Chester | 4 hrs 11 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 21:34 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 3 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 22:45 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 4 hrs 3 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 19:42 Cardiff Queen Street | 00:31 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Crewe Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:12 Cardiff Queen Street | 02:00 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Crewe Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:57 Cardiff Queen Street | 07:12 Manchester Victoria | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Crewe Manchester Piccadilly | 9 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:50 Cardiff Queen Street | 08:45 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Manchester Piccadilly | 8 hrs 55 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!
Heading to Manchester and considering Manchester Victoria Station as your travel hub? You're in good company. This bustling station is a key player in the UK's rail network, serving not only as a gateway to exploring the vibrant city of Manchester but also a starting point for exciting travel adventures across the UK. Let's dive deep into what Manchester Victoria has to offer, so you can hit the ground running—or should we say, rolling down the tracks!
Manchester Victoria Station is equipped with various facilities to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience. Passengers can easily buy or collect tickets thanks to its well-staffed ticket office, which operates from 06:30-22:00 on weekdays and extends to 22:15 on Sundays. For those in a hurry, ticket machines are readily available, and they include accessible options for all passengers.
Step-free access throughout the station makes movement easy, with lifts between platforms and ramps connecting to the Manchester Metrolink. Despite the absence of waiting rooms, the station provides a sufficient seating area, along with accessible amenities like baby-changing facilities integrated within the accessible toilets. However, some might miss the absence of an ATM or a first-class lounge.
Manchester Victoria doesn't fall short on refreshment options; a large café adorned with seating options is complemented by various coffee and news outlets. Furthermore, the station takes security seriously, with CCTV cameras installed throughout.
Transitioning from train to other modes of transport? You're covered! Right at the station's main entrance, a Rail Replacement Service pick-up point ensures smooth bus transfers. Manchester's buzzing bus network is accessible through services operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach', with routes easily browsable online. The Metroshuttle service offers free city center travel, connecting key spots daily from 07:00-19:00.
Trams are another option, with the Metrolink tram network ferrying passengers around Manchester. Whether it’s a quick jaunt to Manchester Piccadilly or a trip north to Bury, the trams have got you covered. While bicycle hire isn't available at the station, cyclists will find 38 cycle stands by platform 3, monitored by CCTV for added peace of mind.
Curious where you might meander? Manchester Victoria is a gateway to a multitude of destinations. Fancy heading east? Trains regularly zip to Leeds or continue all the way to York. For those with a Beatles tune in their heads, Liverpool Lime Street is just a ticket away. Northerly adventures beckon with routes to Newcastle and Wigan Wallgate. Not to forget the scenic routes to charming towns like Rochdale or Hebden Bridge, each offering its unique charm and history.
Search for more travel ideas and plan your next journey by checking the train schedules and enjoy the rich countryside views or the lively urban landscapes en route to your destination.
As you consider your rail journey from Manchester Victoria, remember that this station isn't merely a stop on the map—it's your portal to exploring both the iconic and the hidden gems of the UK. With comprehensive facilities, easily accessible transport options, and routes to suit a variety of travel whims, this station serves as an inviting starting point. Prepare to dive into the heart of Manchester, its pulse resonating from the tracks and beyond. So why wait? Embrace your next adventure and book your train tickets today!