A train trip from Chelmsford to Cardiff Bay takes about 4hrs 4 mins on average, covering roughly 157 miles (253 kilometres). With around 30 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 £29.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Cardiff Bay |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Chelmsford |
Frequency | 30trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 33 mins |
Changes | 4-4no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:11 / 23:55 |
Distance | 157miles (253 km) |
2 Routes | Via London Liverpool Street & London Paddington & Cardiff Central & Cardiff Queen Street Via Stratford (London) & London Paddington & Cardiff Central & Cardiff Queen Street |
4 Train Operators | GWR, Elizabeth Line, Abellio Greater Anglia, Transport for Wales |
Prices | from£29.00 |
Hop on a Train from Chelmsford to Cardiff Bay – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Chelmsford to Cardiff Bay 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 4 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cardiff Bay), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 33 mins. With roughly 30 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 157-mile (253 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of GWR, Elizabeth Line, Abellio Greater Anglia, 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 £29.00 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 Bay!
The travel time between Chelmsford and Cardiff Bay by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 4 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 33 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Chelmsford to Cardiff Bay is 3hrs 33 mins.
Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Cardiff Bay can start from as little as £29.00 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Chelmsford and Cardiff Bay vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 30 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:11, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:55.
First class tickets on trains between Chelmsford and Cardiff Bay typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Chelmsford and Cardiff Bay 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 Chelmsford and Cardiff Bay. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Bay, 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 Chelmsford & Cardiff Bay. However, there are 30 possible journeys which require a change.
GWR, Elizabeth Line, Abellio Greater Anglia and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Chelmsford and Cardiff Bay.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Chelmsford and Cardiff Bay, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Thursday 1st May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 08:34 Chelmsford | 12:06 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | Stratford (London) London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 32 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:43 Chelmsford | 12:36 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | London Liverpool Street London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 53 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:27 Chelmsford | 13:06 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | London Liverpool Street London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 39 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:55 Chelmsford | 13:54 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | Stratford (London) London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:25 Chelmsford | 14:06 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | London Liverpool Street London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:55 Chelmsford | 14:36 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | Stratford (London) London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:25 Chelmsford | 15:06 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | London Liverpool Street London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:55 Chelmsford | 15:36 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | London Liverpool Street London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:25 Chelmsford | 15:54 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | London Liverpool Street London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 29 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:55 Chelmsford | 16:36 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | Stratford (London) London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:25 Chelmsford | 17:06 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | London Liverpool Street London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:55 Chelmsford | 17:36 Cardiff Bay | 4 changes | London Liverpool Street London Paddington Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
Nestled in the bustling heart of Essex, Chelmsford train station is a hub of activity and a vital gateway for travelers venturing in and out of London. For daily commuters and occasional travelers alike, Chelmsford offers an inviting blend of efficiency and convenience. Whether you're heading to the capital or exploring the scenic beauty of Essex, Chelmsford station ensures your journey is comfortable and hassle-free.
Chelmsford train station offers a myriad of facilities to meet the diverse needs of its passengers. With a ticket office open from 5:50 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 7 AM to 11 PM on Sundays, you have plenty of opportunity to grab or collect your tickets. For added convenience, ticket machines are available around the clock. Chelmsford station has taken steps to ensure accessibility for all, offering step-free access, accessible ticket machines, and toilets. CCTV coverage ensures safety, while its commitment to passenger comfort is evident in its waiting rooms, open from 5 AM to 11 PM throughout the week.
When it comes to shopping and dining, you're never short of options at Chelmsford. Grab a coffee from Coffee Link, savor a sushi roll at Ume Garden’s Sushi & Bento, or refresh yourself with a snack from one of the vending machines. If you’re in the mood for something familiar, Costa Coffee and Puccino's Deli are ready to serve you. There is even an ATM available to handle any last-minute cash needs!
Transport links at Chelmsford are carefully designed to ensure seamless travel. When railway services are disrupted, rail replacement buses conveniently pick up and drop off at the bus stops on Victoria Road at the station entrance. The local bus service network is quite efficient, covering Chelmsford and nearby towns and can be further explored at FirstGroup. Plus, a PLUSBUS extension to your train ticket guarantees unlimited bus travel in town at discounted rates.
Taxis are readily available from the rank just outside the station for those preferring private conveyance while the cycling community may take advantage of the extensive bicycle storage facilities with 960 spaces and sheltered, CCTV-monitored secure options available.
Chelmsford’s strategic location makes it an attractive starting point for your travels. Among the most popular destinations are trips to London Liverpool Street, Colchester, and Billericay. You can also explore routes to Ipswich, Southend Victoria, and even head further north to Norwich.
Whether you're embarking on a short commute or a leisurely journey across East Anglia, Chelmsford train station provides a haven of accessibility, amenities, and connectivity. With its array of services and connections, you're in capable hands from the moment you step through its doors. Consider Chelmsford as your launch pad to adventure—where will it take you today?
Looking to explore the beautiful Cardiff Bay area or need a convenient station for your daily commute? Cardiff Bay Train Station is a hub poised to cater to every traveler, whether you're visiting for leisure or business. Although a smaller station, it offers essential services to kickstart your journey with ease.
While Cardiff Bay Train Station may not boast extensive amenities, it does efficiently cover the key necessities for travelers. You won't find a ticket office but don’t fret! Ticket machines are there to facilitate collection of pre-purchased tickets, accept both cash and cards, and are accessible for all travelers, including those who use wheelchairs. Notably, the station provides step-free access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, maintaining its 'Category A' accessibility status.
For those curious about smart travel, Cardiff Bay does not issue smartcards, but validators are available for use. And should you need assistance, a help point is there, alongside departure and arrival screens, ensuring you’re kept in the loop about train statuses. Be sure to take advantage of the assistance service, which permits bookings up to two hours before your trip starts. Whenever needed, contacting the Transport for Wales Customer Relations team is a few clicks away.
Effortlessly commute in and out of Cardiff Bay with the station’s array of transport links. A strategically placed rail replacement bus stop awaits on Bute Street, and bus services are conveniently available right outside the station. If you fancy cycling over public transport, Nextbike/Ovo bike sharing has you covered, with docking stations ready at Lloyd George Avenue for exploring the city on two wheels.
Cardiff Bay is more than just a starting point; it’s a gateway to numerous popular destinations throughout Wales. Plan a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street for shopping or head towards Cardiff Central for further connections. Delight in a scenic ride to Barry Island, or join the cultural festivities in Swansea. Whether for work or pleasure, hopping on a train from Cardiff Bay will take you anywhere you need to go with ease.
While it may not resemble the grand European stations with vast facilities, Cardiff Bay Train Station still holds its charm. Simple, efficient, and conveniently located, it stands ready to cater to your travel needs without hassle. So, plan your trip, grab your tickets, and let Cardiff Bay Train Station be your gateway to exploring the vibrant scenes and serene landscapes of Wales.
Need more detailed travel information or want to organize your tickets beforehand? Visit National Rail's official website for a seamless experience.