A train trip from Cathays to Shirley takes about 5hrs on average, covering roughly 85 miles (136 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 £19.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Shirley |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cathays |
Frequency | 19trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 11 mins |
Changes | 3-4no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:08 / 23:59 |
Distance | 85miles (136 km) |
4 Routes | Via Cardiff Central & Birmingham New Street & Birmingham Moor Street Via Cardiff Central & Birmingham New Street & Smethwick Galton Bridge & Birmingham Moor Street Via Cardiff Central & Shrewsbury & Smethwick Galton Bridge Via Radyr & Cardiff Central & Birmingham New Street & Birmingham Moor Street |
3 Train Operators | West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry |
Prices | from£19.90 |
Hop on a Train from Cathays to Shirley – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cathays to Shirley 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 5hrs. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Shirley), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 11 mins. With roughly 19 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 85-mile (136 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, 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 £19.90 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 Shirley!
The travel time between Cathays and Shirley by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 11 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cathays to Shirley is 3hrs 11 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cathays to Shirley can start from as little as £19.90 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 Cathays and Shirley 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 06:08, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:59.
First class tickets on trains between Cathays and Shirley typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cathays and Shirley 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 Cathays and Shirley. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Shirley, 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 Cathays & Shirley. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.
West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Cathays and Shirley.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cathays and Shirley, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Thursday 12th June | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 06:08 Cathays | 09:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:08 Cathays | 10:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:08 Cathays | 11:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:08 Cathays | 12:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:08 Cathays | 13:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:08 Cathays | 14:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:08 Cathays | 15:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:08 Cathays | 16:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:08 Cathays | 17:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:08 Cathays | 18:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:08 Cathays | 19:56 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:08 Cathays | 20:43 Shirley | 3 changes | Cardiff Central Birmingham Moor Street | 3 hrs 35 mins | Get Tickets | |
Positioned within the dynamic city of Cardiff, Cathays station serves as a pivotal gateway for local commuters and travelers. Its strategic location near Cardiff University makes it an essential hub for students and visitors alike. As part of the wider UK rail network, Cathays provides efficient services that connect you effortlessly to an array of destinations within and beyond Wales. Whether you're catching a train to Cardiff Central for a city-center adventure or heading out to scenic Barry Island, Cathays station is your dependable departure point.
At Cathays, convenience is a priority. The station offers a ticket office open during weekdays from 06:30 to 19:30. On Saturdays, hours are reduced, yet adequate for a casual weekend jaunt. Automated ticket machines ensure ease of access outside these hours, and with the ability to collect tickets purchased online, your journey begins with minimal fuss. For those concerned with accessibility, the platform configuration may pose challenges with the absence of step-free access across platforms. However, helpful station staff and facilities like induction loops and customer help points are in place to ensure assistance is readily available. CCTV coverage adds an extra layer of security for all travelers.
Navigating beyond the rails is easy at Cathays. The rail replacement bus stop and regular local buses are conveniently located on Park Place, making it simple to plan an onward journey. Though Cathays does not provide ongoing taxi or cycle hire services directly, Cardiff's robust network of public transport ensures you're never far from your next connection.
While the station facilitates efficient ticketing, it misses amenities like shopping outlets, refreshment stands, and public Wi-Fi. Planning ahead by grabbing refreshments prior to arrival could be essential. For cyclists, safe bicycle storage with CCTV ensures your bicycles remain secure during extended visits. Though amenities such as a waiting room are lacking, available seating areas ensure a comfortable stopover.
Cathays is your starting point for an array of adventures. Why not explore Barry’s picturesque seaside or immerse yourself in Swansea’s vibrant culture? For those interested in urban exploration, a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street offers central city excitement. Here are a few key routes to consider: take the scenic journey from Cathays to Barry Island or revel in the academic and cultural offerings just a train ride away, such as from Cathays to Cardiff Central.
Cathays train station is more than just a stop—it's the beginning of a journey, connecting you not only to Cardiff's rich offerings but also to broader locations across the UK. While it may lack some comforts, its strategic placement and robust connections ensure an efficient travel experience. Next time you're planning to venture from Cardiff, consider joining the many passengers who choose Cathays as their travel companion. Grab your tickets with ease, embark on an adventure, and explore the myriad of possibilities this charming station opens up.
With a plethora of destinations at your fingertips and the convenience of ticket purchases and travel updates at your disposal, Cathays station stands as a testament to efficient rail travel in the UK. Remember, wherever your journey takes you next, a smooth start begins with planning and an open mind. Happy travels!
Positioned in the heart of Shirley, this station is a gateway to a host of destinations in the UK. Whether you're a regular commuter or planning a rural escape, Shirley Train Station offers both convenience and a warm welcome. With its modest size but sufficient facilities, it's the kind of station that makes travel easy and fuss-free.
Shirley Train Station offers a range of essential facilities to make your journey comfortable. The ticket office is open from Monday to Friday, 6:30 am to 12:00 pm, with extended hours until 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. While ticket machines are available for ease, the station lacks accessible ticket machines. However, rest assured you can collect tickets conveniently from the office.
Accessible features at Shirley include step-free access to all platforms, making it a category A station for accessibility. Though there are no waiting rooms, there is a seating area and available toilets on Platform 1. These include accessible toilets operated by a RADAR key, obtainable from station staff during their hours.
Travelling beyond Shirley is simple with several onward travel options. Should rail replacement services be necessary, they depart from the station entrance. For those preferring taxis, local services like Shirley (SRL) Station A to B, Senator, and Able are available for hire. Additionally, the station is well-connected by buses, allowing easy exploration of the surrounding area.
Whether you're stepping out for a day trip or heading to work, Shirley Station is your starting point. Find convenient links like Shirley to Birmingham Moor Street and Birmingham Snow Hill. For a scenic escape, consider taking the train to Stratford-Upon-Avon. Other popular routes include trips to Jewellery Quarter, University (Birmingham), and London Marylebone.
Whether it's a bustling city or a quiet town, Shirley provides the launchpad to numerous adventures throughout the UK. Despite the absence of some amenities like shops, as well as Wi-Fi, the station's core functions remain robust. Shirley Train Station proves itself to be a reliable, well-placed facility for both routine and exploratory travel. Ready to embark on your next journey? Start by securing your tickets from Shirley. Happy travels!