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Trains from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to
Cardiff Central

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Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central by train

A train trip from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central takes about 8hrs 17 mins on average, covering roughly 306 miles (493 kilometres). With around 16 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 £58.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Central

Departure Station

Charing Cross (Glasgow)

Frequency

16trains
per day

Journey Time

from7hrs

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:42 / 00:04

Distance

306miles
(493 km)

7 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£58.00

Travelling from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central by Train

Hop on a Train from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff 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 8hrs 17 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cardiff Central), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 7hrs. With roughly 16 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 306-mile (493 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, Caledonian Sleeper, 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 £58.00 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 Cardiff Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central

Curious about your trip from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff 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 Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central by train?

The travel time between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 8hrs 17 mins & the fastest journey takes 7hrs.

What's the fastest journey time between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central is 7hrs.

How much does the train from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £58.00 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 Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 16 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:42, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:04.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central?

First class tickets on trains between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central?

Amenities on trains between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff 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 Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Charing Cross (Glasgow) & Cardiff Central. However, there are 16 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central?

Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, Caledonian Sleeper and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Charing Cross (Glasgow) and Cardiff Central, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
09:37 Charing Cross (Glasgow)16:46 Cardiff Central2 changesHaymarket
Crewe
7 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
11:23 Charing Cross (Glasgow)17:44 Cardiff Central3 changesGlasgow Queen Street
Glasgow Central
Crewe
6 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
11:34 Charing Cross (Glasgow)19:27 Cardiff Central2 changesHaymarket
Birmingham New Street
7 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
13:34 Charing Cross (Glasgow)20:54 Cardiff Central2 changesHaymarket
Crewe
7 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
15:24 Charing Cross (Glasgow)21:52 Cardiff Central3 changesGlasgow Queen Street
Glasgow Central
Crewe
6 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
15:35 Charing Cross (Glasgow)23:00 Cardiff Central2 changesHaymarket
Crewe
7 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
16:58 Charing Cross (Glasgow)00:14 Cardiff Central3 changesGlasgow Queen Street
Glasgow Central
Crewe
7 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
17:48 Charing Cross (Glasgow)01:33 Cardiff Central3 changesGlasgow Queen Street
Haymarket
Crewe
7 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
19:34 Charing Cross (Glasgow)07:50 Cardiff Central3 changesPartick
Glasgow Central
Crewe
12 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
23:20 Charing Cross (Glasgow)09:58 Cardiff Central2 changesDalmuir
Crewe
10 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
23:50 Charing Cross (Glasgow)12:45 Cardiff Central3 changesGlasgow Central
Crewe
12 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
23:57 Charing Cross (Glasgow)14:44 Cardiff Central3 changesHyndland
Glasgow Central
Crewe
14 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff 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 Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central start from as little as £58.00

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 Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central start from £158.40 one way, or £226.40 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 Charing Cross (Glasgow) to Cardiff Central are available for £164.20 one way, or £328.40 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 Charing Cross (Glasgow) Station

Welcome to Charing Cross (Glasgow) Train Station

Charing Cross station in Glasgow, not to be mistaken with the central London counterpart, is a charming destination in its own right. As part of the bustling West End, this station is a gateway to some of Glasgow's beloved attractions and a hub for commuters and tourists alike. Navigating through its corridors, you'll find a variety of facilities designed to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Station Facilities

The station is equipped with a ticket office that operates from early morning until late evening, ensuring you can purchase your tickets conveniently. For those who prefer the self-service route, ticket machines are available, supporting online ticket collection. Accessibility is a priority here, with step-free access across the station, including both platforms. While there are no accessible toilets, accessible ticket machines and induction loops are in place to aid those with hearing impairments.

Help and Support

Customer support is readily available, with staff ready to assist from the ticket office or via the designated help points scattered across the station. Whether you have questions about your journey or need additional support, they're there to lend a hand. For digital inquiries, you can reach out through customer.relations@scotrail.co.uk. Lost property services are also available, providing a safe return for misplaced items.

Refreshments and Amenities

For those waiting for their next train, you can grab a cup of coffee at the café or pick up a newspaper from WHSmith. While the station lacks a currency exchange and 1st class lounge, the essentials are well covered with the presence of an ATM. Public Wi-Fi is not available, but pay phones are located within, catering to any necessary communications.

Onward Travel Options

Charing Cross offers excellent connections to various modes of transport. Should you need onward travel services, you can access the local bus services via Traveline Scotland or pick up a taxi with ease through TrainTaxi. Bicycle hires, such as Gear of Glasgow and NextBike, offer environmentally friendly ways to explore the city, conveniently located near the station.

Popular Destinations

From Charing Cross, you're well-placed for exploring not only Glasgow but beyond. Some popular train routes include journeys to vibrant neighborhoods like Partick or Bellgrove. If you're looking for a longer excursion, Edinburgh is just a scenic train ride away. Whatever your destination, Charing Cross opens a world of possibilities for travel and adventure.

Plan Your Visit

When planning your visit to Glasgow, Charing Cross station makes for a convenient starting point. Explore the nearby attractions, indulge in local cuisine, or simply soak in the vibrant culture of the area. With ample rail connections and facilities to ensure a comfortable experience, your journey from this station will be off to a great start.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're commuting daily or visiting Glasgow for the first time, Charing Cross station serves as a pivotal spot to begin your journey. With its offering of modern amenities and accessible options, your travel plans are made easier and more enjoyable. So why wait? Plan your next train trip and explore the marvels that Glasgow and its surroundings have to offer, all starting from Charing Cross.

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Central Station

Discover Cardiff Central Train Station

Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.

The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.

Connectivity and Travel Links

This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!

Popular Destinations

Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.

In Conclusion

Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Charing Cross (Glasgow)