This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from Cheltenham Spa to
Cardiff Central

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central by train

A train trip from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central takes about 1hrs 17 mins on average, covering roughly 54 miles (88 kilometres). With around 50 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 £5.30, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Central

Departure Station

Cheltenham Spa

Frequency

50trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 8 mins

Changes

030 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:38 / 23:46

Distance

54miles
(88 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£5.30

Travelling from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central by Train

Hop on a Train from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Cheltenham Spa 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 1hrs 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 1hrs 8 mins. With roughly 50 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 54-mile (88 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of CrossCountry, GWR, 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 £5.30 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 Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central

Curious about your trip from Cheltenham Spa 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 Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central by train?

The travel time between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 17 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 8 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central is 1hrs 8 mins.

How much does the train from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £5.30 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 Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 50 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:38, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:46.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central?

First class tickets on trains between Cheltenham Spa 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 Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Cheltenham Spa 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 Cheltenham Spa 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 Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central?

Yes! There are usually around 30 direct services per day from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central

What train companies run services from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central?

CrossCountry, GWR and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central?

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

When are Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cheltenham Spa 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
05:38 Cheltenham Spa06:58 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
06:06 Cheltenham Spa07:24 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
06:41 Cheltenham Spa07:57 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
07:43 Cheltenham Spa08:59 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
08:15 Cheltenham Spa09:25 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
08:26 Cheltenham Spa09:35 Cardiff Central1 changeBristol Parkway
1 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
08:40 Cheltenham Spa10:00 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
08:52 Cheltenham Spa10:09 Cardiff Central1 changeBristol Parkway
1 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
09:15 Cheltenham Spa10:25 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
09:40 Cheltenham Spa10:59 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
09:52 Cheltenham Spa11:07 Cardiff Central1 changeBristol Parkway
1 hrs 15 mins Get Tickets
10:15 Cheltenham Spa11:25 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cheltenham Spa 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 Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central start from as little as £5.30

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 Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Central are available for £23.70 one way, or £24.60 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 Cheltenham Spa Station

Exploring Cheltenham Spa Train Station: A Gateway to Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham Spa train station stands as a bustling hub, seamlessly connecting travelers to various destinations across the UK. Whether you're embarking on a journey to the vibrant streets of London Paddington or the historic charm of Bath Spa, Cheltenham Spa station offers an array of facilities to ensure a convenient and pleasant travel experience.

A Hub of Facilities and Amenities

Cheltenham Spa is equipped with a robust ticketing service, featuring both manned ticket offices and machines for purchasing and collecting tickets with ease. The ticket office is open from 06:15 to 20:15 on weekdays, slightly altering times over the weekend. Furthermore, smartcards can be issued at this station, though they lack on-site validators.

Accessibility is made a priority at this station, with step-free access to platforms via ramps, and there are provisions for customers needing extra assistance with a dedicated help point. For those carrying heavy luggage, it's important to note that there isn’t a luggage storage facility available. However, customer service staff are on hand from 05:00 to 01:00 daily to assist whenever needed.

Parking is handled by APCOA Parking, offering 286 spaces, 17 of which are wheelchair-accessible. Though the car park is monitored, it doesn't feature CCTV. The rates are reasonable and include a variety of payment plans to suit different needs. Meanwhile, cyclists can benefit from 134 cycle storage spaces and hire services offered by Compass Holidays.

Seamless Connectivity Beyond the Platform

Cheltenham Spa station serves as a critical intersection for various modes of transport besides trains, easing the transition from rail to other transport forms. In case of rail service disruptions, a replacement service is available just in front of the station. Taxis are conveniently stationed at the entrance, though an accessible taxi requires a staff member's help to arrange.

For avid cyclists, bike hire is operational on the platform, offering excellent routes and experiences through Compass Holidays. While those keen on exploring surroundings can access local bus services, with comprehensive onwards travel information available to download in a printable format.

Where to Next? Popular Train Journeys from Cheltenham Spa

Cheltenham Spa provides excellent connectivity for those seeking inspiration for their next adventure. From here, popular train routes include travels to vibrant cities such as London Paddington, or head north to bustling Birmingham New Street. Holidaymakers can venture towards the idyllic Bath Spa, or those with a bit of wanderlust can enjoy the diverse culture of Cardiff Central. Even destinations like Bristol Temple Meads and Gloucester are easily reached from this well-connected station.

Your Cheltenham Spa Experience Awaits

With its convenient location and extensive facilities, Cheltenham Spa train station is more than just a departure point—it's a starting line for countless journeys, each filled with potential and promise. Whether you’re a seasoned commuter or a first-time visitor, this station ensures a smooth start to your travel experience. So why wait? Plan your visit, book your tickets, and step into your next adventure from Cheltenham Spa station, where every journey begins with comfort and convenience.

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 Cheltenham Spa