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Trains from Cardiff Queen Street to
Salford Central

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Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central by train

A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central takes about 4hrs 51 mins on average, covering roughly 143 miles (231 kilometres). With around 19 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.

Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Salford Central

Departure Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Frequency

19trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 15 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:33 / 23:53

Distance

143miles
(231 km)

3 Routes

2 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.60

Travelling from Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central 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 51 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Salford Central), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 15 mins. With roughly 19 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 Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, 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 Salford Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Queen Street and Salford Central

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

The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Salford Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 51 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 15 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central is 4hrs 15 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Salford Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Salford Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 19 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:33, 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 Salford Central?

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Salford Central 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 Salford Central?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Queen Street & Salford Central. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central?

Northern Rail and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Salford Central.

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

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

When are Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central on Monday 5th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 5th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:43 Cardiff Queen Street08:58 Salford Central3 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
Manchester Victoria
9 hrs 15 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Queen Street to Salford Central 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 Salford Central start from as little as £31.60

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.

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 Salford Central are available for £93.20 one way

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 Salford Central Station

Welcome to Salford Central Train Station

Nestled in the heart of Greater Manchester, Salford Central train station offers a gateway to the vibrant and bustling cityscapes of Salford and Manchester. Whether you're a commuter, a day-tripper, or simply passing through, this station serves as a crucial link in the North West's transport network. With its rich industrial heritage and close proximity to the dynamic development in the area, Salford Central presents a convenient launching pad for varied journeys.

Facilities at Salford Central

The station is equipped with essential facilities to ensure a seamless travel experience. The ticket office features considerable opening hours from 06:25 to 19:35 on weekdays, facilitating easy ticket purchases. While ticket machines and accessible ticket machines are available, it's noteworthy that tickets purchased online cannot be collected at the station. Additionally, the station supports smartcards and has validators in place for a convenient check-in and ticketing process.

For those in need of assistance, there's a customer service helpline available, although the station does not have staffed help points or customer services notes onsite. CCTV coverage enhances security around the premises but travelers should be aware that no waiting rooms or lounges are provided. Seating areas are available to ensure a comfortable wait for train arrivals.

Getting Around: Transport Links

Salford Central is well-linked with other transport options, making it a hub of connectivity. Local bus services easily transport passengers to nearby areas like Bolton, Eccles, and the iconic Piccadilly Gardens, with stops located just a short distance from the station. For those looking for more personalized travel, taxis can be booked through services like Cab4You. The station also provides easy access to regional cycling routes as well as bicycle hire facilities, reinforcing environmentally friendly travel.

Popular Destinations from Salford Central

Dreaming of a quaint day out or planning a journey to the outskirts? Salford Central is your portal to many fascinating destinations. Catch a train to Bolton for some classic northern charm or head towards Rochdale for its fascinating cultural heritage. The station also provides seamless travel options to other local gems such as Manchester Piccadilly, Littleborough, and Ashton-Under-Lyne.

Concluding Your Journey

Salford Central train station stands as a vital pulse in the region's transport landscape, serving thousands of passengers every day with essential amenities and travel connections. Whether you're embarking on a new adventure or returning from one, the station's links to major towns and cities offer diverse cultures and experiences at your fingertips. As you plan your travels, always consider booking your rail tickets in advance to secure the best rates and ensure a hassle-free journey.

With its fusion of practicality and accessibility, Salford Central rail station continuously aims to enhance passenger experiences, providing an inviting passage through the energetic environs of Greater Manchester.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Queen Street