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Trains from Cheltenham Spa to
Cardiff Queen Street

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Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street by train

A train trip from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street takes about 1hrs 49 mins on average, covering roughly 54 miles (87 kilometres). With around 22 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 £7.40, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Departure Station

Cheltenham Spa

Frequency

22trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 23 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:14 / 23:46

Distance

54miles
(87 km)

1 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£7.40

Travelling from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street 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 49 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cardiff Queen Street), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 1hrs 23 mins. With roughly 22 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 54-mile (87 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR, 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 £7.40 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 Queen Street!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Queen Street

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

The travel time between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 49 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 23 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street is 1hrs 23 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street can start from as little as £7.40 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 Queen Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 22 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:14, 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 Queen Street?

First class tickets on trains between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Queen Street 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 Queen Street?

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cheltenham Spa & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 22 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street?

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

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

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

When are Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street 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
05:38 Cheltenham Spa07:15 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
1 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
06:06 Cheltenham Spa07:38 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
1 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
06:41 Cheltenham Spa08:08 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
1 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
07:43 Cheltenham Spa09:15 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
1 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
08:15 Cheltenham Spa09:38 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
1 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
08:26 Cheltenham Spa09:52 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesBristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
1 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
08:40 Cheltenham Spa10:15 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
1 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
08:52 Cheltenham Spa10:22 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesBristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
1 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
09:15 Cheltenham Spa10:38 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
1 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
09:40 Cheltenham Spa11:15 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
1 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
09:52 Cheltenham Spa11:22 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesBristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
1 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
10:29 Cheltenham Spa11:52 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesBristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
1 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff Queen Street 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 Queen Street start from as little as £7.40

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 Queen Street 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 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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cheltenham Spa