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Trains from Cardiff Queen Street to
Sunderland

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Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland by train

A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland takes about 6hrs 48 mins on average, covering roughly 248 miles (399 kilometres). With around 15 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 £30.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland Key Stats

Arrival Station

Sunderland

Departure Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Frequency

15trains
per day

Journey Time

from6hrs 15 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:44 / 23:53

Distance

248miles
(399 km)

2 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£30.50

Travelling from Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland 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 6hrs 48 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Sunderland), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 6hrs 15 mins. With roughly 15 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 248-mile (399 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of GWR, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail, Grand Central, CrossCountry, 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 £30.50 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 Sunderland!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Queen Street and Sunderland

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

The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Sunderland by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 48 mins & the fastest journey takes 6hrs 15 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland is 6hrs 15 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland can start from as little as £30.50 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 Sunderland?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Sunderland vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 15 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 Sunderland?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Queen Street & Sunderland. However, there are 15 possible journeys which require a change.

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

GWR, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail, Grand Central and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Sunderland.

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

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

When are Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland 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
21:34 Cardiff Queen Street10:01 Sunderland3 changesCardiff Central
Birmingham New Street
Newcastle
12 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
23:50 Cardiff Queen Street12:01 Sunderland3 changesCardiff Central
Bristol Parkway
Newcastle
12 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Queen Street to Sunderland 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 Sunderland start from as little as £30.50

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 Sunderland start from £218.30 one way, or £219.50 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 Sunderland are available for £220.10 one way, or £440.10 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 Sunderland Station

Sunderland Train Station: Your Gateway to the North East

Nestled in the heart of North East England, Sunderland Train Station serves as a vital transport hub, providing a plethora of services and conveniences for travelers. Whether you are a local commuter or a visitor exploring the scenic beauty of the North East, Sunderland Station is poised to make your journey a smooth and pleasant experience. The station is a key point of departure for an exciting range of destinations, connecting you to major cities and charming locales.

Facilities at Sunderland Station

The station is well-equipped with a ticket office open from early morning until the evening, providing flexibility for purchasing and collecting tickets. Ticket machines are available around the clock, and the accessible machines make it easy for all travelers to get their tickets effortlessly. A smartcard facility is also on hand for those frequent travelers looking to streamline their journey.

Travelers who may need assistance will find help readily available at Sunderland Station. Staff are on duty to offer aid throughout most of the day and night, with facilities such as an induction loop in place to aid those with hearing impairments. Although there is no CCTV, customer help is accessible via contact numbers for added support.

Accessibility and Amenities

Sunderland Train Station boasts comprehensive accessibility with step-free access to all areas, including lifts to each platform. This makes it a Category A station, suitable for all passengers, particularly those with mobility challenges. With waiting rooms not in service, comfort is still maintained with ample seating available throughout. Although there are no accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities are provided to cater to those traveling with young children.

While you'll find essential facilities like refreshment options, the absence of shops means planning ahead is wise. There are no ATM or currency exchange services, so grabbing cash beforehand would be beneficial. Wi-Fi isn't available at the station, ensuring you stay off the grid while traveling or stay entertained through other offline means.

Travel Connections and Onward Journeys

Making onward journeys from Sunderland Station is seamless with its diverse transport links. The station is conveniently located near a taxi rank, making it easy to hail a cab for quick city escapes. For a more economical option, there are several local bus services to choose from. Additionally, the nearby Tyne and Wear Metro station further expands connectivity across the region.

Destinations Awaiting You

The array of destinations accessible from Sunderland is vast and enticing. Travel directly to bustling hubs like London King's Cross and Manchester Piccadilly link link, or head to the cultural hotspots of Edinburgh link and Leeds link. Have a tranquil trip to the beautiful city of York link, or enjoy a coastal visit to scenic destinations like Hartlepool link and Seaham link.

Conclusion

Sunderland Train Station is more than just a starting point for your travels in the UK; it’s a launching pad to adventure. With comprehensive facilities, accessibility options, and seamless travel links, it creates the perfect balance of convenience and connectivity. Whether you’re heading to a metropolitan marvel or a serene seaside escape, Sunderland offers routes that reflect the diverse essence of the UK. Make sure to organize your ticketing needs in advance to ensure a hassle-free start to your journey!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Queen Street