This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from Cardiff Queen Street to
Nottingham

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham by train

A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham takes about 4hrs 7 mins on average, covering roughly 132 miles (213 kilometres). With around 28 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 £39.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham Key Stats

Arrival Station

Nottingham

Departure Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Frequency

28trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 35 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:44 / 23:53

Distance

132miles
(213 km)

3 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£39.00

Travelling from Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham 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 7 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Nottingham), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 35 mins. With roughly 28 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 132-mile (213 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR, East Midlands Railway, 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 £39.00 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 Nottingham!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Queen Street and Nottingham

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

The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Nottingham by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 7 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 35 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham is 3hrs 35 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham can start from as little as £39.00 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 Nottingham?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Nottingham vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 28 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 Nottingham?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Queen Street & Nottingham. However, there are 28 possible journeys which require a change.

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

Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR and East Midlands Railway are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Nottingham.

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

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

When are Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham 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
15:34 Cardiff Queen Street19:06 Nottingham1 changeCardiff Central
3 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
15:42 Cardiff Queen Street19:24 Nottingham3 changesCardiff Central
Bristol Parkway
Derby
3 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
16:34 Cardiff Queen Street20:04 Nottingham1 changeCardiff Central
3 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
16:37 Cardiff Queen Street20:15 Nottingham3 changesCardiff Central
Bristol Parkway
Derby
3 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
17:34 Cardiff Queen Street21:05 Nottingham1 changeCardiff Central
3 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
17:37 Cardiff Queen Street21:24 Nottingham3 changesCardiff Central
Bristol Parkway
Derby
3 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
18:34 Cardiff Queen Street22:18 Nottingham1 changeCardiff Central
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
19:37 Cardiff Queen Street23:26 Nottingham1 changeCardiff Central
3 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
21:34 Cardiff Queen Street07:21 Nottingham3 changesCardiff Central
Birmingham New Street
Derby
9 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
21:57 Cardiff Queen Street07:54 Nottingham2 changesCardiff Central
Crewe
9 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
23:50 Cardiff Queen Street09:24 Nottingham3 changesCardiff Central
Bristol Parkway
Birmingham New Street
9 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Queen Street to Nottingham 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 Nottingham start from as little as £39.00

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 Nottingham start from £97.60 one way, or £99.00 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 Nottingham are available for £135.20 one way, or £161.80 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 Nottingham Station

Welcome to Nottingham Train Station

Nottingham Train Station, a hub of connectivity in the heart of England, is an essential part of the city’s vibrant transport network. As the principal railway station in Nottingham, it serves as the nerve center for travelers heading to and from this historic city known for its rich heritage and cutting-edge innovations. Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional visitor, navigating this busy station can be a breeze when you know what to expect.

Facilities and Amenities

This buzzing station is more than just a gateway to your next destination. It's equipped with all the facilities you need for a comfortable and convenient journey. Nottingham Station hosts a well-staffed ticket office open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 7:15 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays. Travelers can also utilize ticket machines for a quicker, self-service option, including accessible machines for those who need them. The station supports smartcards and offers easy ticket collection services for online purchases.

For those who require assistance, Nottingham Station ensures easy and inclusive access with features like step-free access throughout, available lifts to all platforms, and numerous ramps. Help points and an information desk are ready to assist, making it easier for everyone to travel with confidence. The presence of CCTVs adds an extra layer of security to your trip.

When it comes to creature comforts, you'll find heated waiting rooms, accessible restrooms, including a baby changing facility, and a variety of cafes and vending machines for a quick snack or refreshment. There’s also a chance to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at the on-site shops. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi is not yet available, so be sure to download all your important details before you arrive.

Transport Connections for Seamless Travel

Getting to and from Nottingham Station is made simple with a range of transport options. Rail replacement buses conveniently operate from Carrington Street directly in front of the station, ensuring you're never stranded if regular services are suspended. For those looking to explore the city, local bus services connect the station to various parts of Nottingham, managed by a comprehensive network.

Nottingham is also part of the vibrant tram network known as the Nottingham Express Transit. Not to mention, there's through-ticketing available for seamless travel to East Midlands Airport, courtesy of the regular Skylink service operated by Nottingham City Transport. This makes your journey from the train station to the skies as smooth as possible.

Discover Popular Routes

Nottingham Train Station serves as a gateway to numerous exciting destinations. Fancy a quick trip to the bustling metropolis of London? Trains from Nottingham to London St Pancras International make that journey straightforward. If you're headed to scenic peak district locales or nearby cities like Sheffield or Leicester, Nottingham is the ideal starting point thanks to its robust rail connections.

Explore regional gems with ease by catching trains to local hotspots like Grantham, Lincoln, or Skegness. With a plethora of destinations accessible from Nottingham, from Birmingham New Street to the charming town of Hucknall, the opportunities for urban adventures and tranquil retreats are vast and varied.

A Closing Note: Your Journey Begins Here

With rich historical significance and modern amenities, Nottingham Train Station is more than a stop; it's a launching pad for discovery, innovation, and memory-making experiences. As you plan your rail travels, whether for business or pleasure, let Nottingham Station be your steadfast companion on the rails, ensuring your journey is pleasant and prompt. Find your ideal train ticket today and step into a realm of possibilities that await just beyond the platform.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Queen Street