A train trip from Cradley Heath to Cathays takes about 4hrs 11 mins on average, covering roughly 82 miles (132 kilometres). With around 18 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 £30.40, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Cathays |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cradley Heath |
Frequency | 18trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 15 mins |
Changes | 3-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:52 / 23:40 |
Distance | 82miles (132 km) |
4 Routes | Via Droitwich Spa & Hereford & Cardiff Central Via Smethwick Galton Bridge & Birmingham New Street & Cardiff Central Via Worcester Shrub Hill & Hereford & Cardiff Central Via Smethwick Galton Bridge & Shrewsbury & Cardiff Central |
4 Train Operators | CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, GWR, West Midlands Trains |
Prices | from£30.40 |
Hop on a Train from Cradley Heath to Cathays – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cradley Heath to Cathays 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 11 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cathays), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 15 mins. With roughly 18 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 82-mile (132 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, GWR, West Midlands Trains, 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 £30.40 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 Cathays!
The travel time between Cradley Heath and Cathays by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 11 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 15 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cradley Heath to Cathays is 3hrs 15 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cradley Heath to Cathays can start from as little as £30.40 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Cradley Heath and Cathays vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 18 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:52, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:40.
First class tickets on trains between Cradley Heath and Cathays typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cradley Heath and Cathays 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 Cradley Heath and Cathays. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cathays, 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 Cradley Heath & Cathays. However, there are 18 possible journeys which require a change.
CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, GWR and West Midlands Trains are the main train operating companies running services between Cradley Heath and Cathays.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cradley Heath and Cathays, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Wednesday 30th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 13:25 Cradley Heath | 16:32 Cathays | 4 changes | Smethwick Galton Bridge Birmingham New Street Bristol Parkway Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:52 Cradley Heath | 17:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Droitwich Spa Hereford Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 10 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:25 Cradley Heath | 17:32 Cathays | 4 changes | Smethwick Galton Bridge Birmingham New Street Bristol Parkway Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:52 Cradley Heath | 18:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Droitwich Spa Hereford Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 10 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:25 Cradley Heath | 18:32 Cathays | 4 changes | Smethwick Galton Bridge Birmingham New Street Bristol Parkway Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:37 Cradley Heath | 19:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Smethwick Galton Bridge Birmingham New Street Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 25 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:25 Cradley Heath | 19:32 Cathays | 4 changes | Smethwick Galton Bridge Birmingham New Street Bristol Parkway Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:52 Cradley Heath | 20:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Droitwich Spa Hereford Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 10 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:25 Cradley Heath | 20:32 Cathays | 3 changes | Smethwick Galton Bridge Birmingham New Street Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:52 Cradley Heath | 21:08 Cathays | 3 changes | Droitwich Spa Hereford Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 16 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:25 Cradley Heath | 21:32 Cathays | 4 changes | Smethwick Galton Bridge Birmingham New Street Bristol Parkway Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:52 Cradley Heath | 22:07 Cathays | 3 changes | Worcester Shrub Hill Hereford Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
Cradley Heath Train Station, nestled in the heart of the West Midlands, serves as a key hub for commuters and travelers alike. Its strategic location offers easy access to surrounding areas, making it a sought-after choice for those looking to explore the region or travel further afield. If you're planning a rail trip starting from Cradley Heath, you're in for a seamless experience, complete with various ticketing options, essential amenities, and convenient transport links that ensure your journey is as stress-free as possible.
The station operates efficiently with a ticket office available from early morning until late evening Monday through Saturday, and slightly reduced hours on Sunday. You'll find ticket machines on-site for convenient purchasing and collection of tickets bought online. An added layer of reassurance is provided by the Secure Station Scheme accreditation, which emphasizes safety.
Accessibility at Cradley Heath Station is well-considered with step-free access to all platforms. However, be mindful as some access points may involve long or steep ramps, with inter-platform access requiring a street crossing. There's also a ramp available for train access, ensuring passengers with mobility impairments are supported in their travel.
For those driving to the station, you'll be pleased to know there are 255 car parking spaces, opening 24 hours and operated by Transport for West Midlands, with 12 dedicated accessible spaces. While the station lacks an ATM, shops, and refreshment facilities, for anyone cycling, there are 26 bicycle storage spaces equipped with CCTV for peace of mind.
When arriving or departing from Cradley Heath, local transport options extend beyond the railway. There are reliable taxi services including Royal (01384 411777) and Skyline (01384 633333), ready to whisk you to your next destination. Additionally, should your journey require it, rail replacement services conveniently operate at the bus stop on Forge Lane, directly in front of the station entrance. In terms of bus services, the station provides printable journey plans to help ease your onward travel.
Cradley Heath connects to numerous exciting destinations. Whether you're heading to Birmingham Moor Street or Birmingham Snow Hill, you're covered. Want to explore beyond the busy city? Take a train to picturesque locations such as Kidderminster or Worcester Shrub Hill. If further afield travel interests you, hop on a train to London's Marylebone or Coventry. For those in search of cultural spots, head to University (Birmingham) or check out the artistic Jewellery Quarter.
Cradley Heath Train Station may not boast the most extensive set of amenities, but what it offers is more than enough to ensure a comfortable, safe, and efficient travel experience. From ease of ticketing to smooth accessibility, it stands as a reliable starting point for your adventures across the UK. So, why not embark on your next journey from Cradley Heath? Whether it’s a quick commute or a leisurely exploration, the train station poised at Cradley Heath promises to set the perfect beginning to a memorable travel experience.
If you're ready to say yes to the adventure that awaits you, consider booking your tickets today. An entire network of rail connections lies at your fingertips, offering a gateway to inspire your curiosity and exploration.
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!