A train trip from Folkestone West to Cathays takes about 4hrs 59 mins on average, covering roughly 189 miles (304 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 £31.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Cathays |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Folkestone West |
Frequency | 18trains per day |
Journey Time | from4hrs 6 mins |
Changes | 3-4no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:11 / 00:02 |
Distance | 189miles (304 km) |
4 Routes | Via Ashford International & London St Pancras International & London Paddington & Cardiff Central Via London St Pancras International & London Paddington & Cardiff Central Via London St Pancras International & Farringdon & London Paddington & Cardiff Central Via Folkestone Central & London St Pancras International & London Paddington & Cardiff Central |
5 Train Operators | Elizabeth Line, Transport for Wales, Thameslink, Southeastern, GWR |
Prices | from£31.00 |
Hop on a Train from Folkestone West to Cathays – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Folkestone West 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 59 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 4hrs 6 mins. With roughly 18 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 189-mile (304 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Elizabeth Line, Transport for Wales, Thameslink, Southeastern, 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 £31.00 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 Cathays!
The travel time between Folkestone West and Cathays by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 59 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 6 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Folkestone West to Cathays is 4hrs 6 mins.
Train ticket prices from Folkestone West to Cathays can start from as little as £31.00 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 Folkestone West 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 05:11, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:02.
First class tickets on trains between Folkestone West and Cathays typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Folkestone West 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 Folkestone West 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 Folkestone West & Cathays. However, there are 18 possible journeys which require a change.
Elizabeth Line, Transport for Wales, Thameslink, Southeastern and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Folkestone West and Cathays.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Folkestone West and Cathays, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Monday 28th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 15:53 Folkestone West | 20:02 Cathays | 3 changes | London St Pancras International London Paddington Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 9 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:08 Folkestone West | 20:32 Cathays | 4 changes | Ashford International London St Pancras International London Paddington Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 24 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:57 Folkestone West | 21:08 Cathays | 3 changes | London St Pancras International London Paddington Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 11 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:08 Folkestone West | 21:32 Cathays | 4 changes | Ashford International London St Pancras International London Paddington Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 24 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:01 Folkestone West | 22:07 Cathays | 3 changes | London St Pancras International London Paddington Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 6 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 19:03 Folkestone West | 23:07 Cathays | 4 changes | London St Pancras International Farringdon London Paddington Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 4 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:01 Folkestone West | 05:30 Cathays | 3 changes | London St Pancras International London Paddington Cardiff Central | 8 hrs 29 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:01 Folkestone West | 08:32 Cathays | 3 changes | London St Pancras International London Paddington Cardiff Central | 9 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:59 Folkestone West | 10:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Folkestone Central London St Pancras International London Paddington Cardiff Central | 10 hrs 3 mins | Get Tickets | |
Nestled in the historic town of Folkestone, Folkestone West Train Station serves as a vibrant gateway to both the stunning Kentish coastline and the gardens of England. Offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, this station ensures a smooth journey whether you're a daily commuter or an adventurous traveler seeking new destinations.
Folkestone West Train Station offers a range of facilities to ease your journey. For ticket purchases, there's a ticket office open during weekday and Saturday mornings. Outside these hours, the station provides ticket machines for your convenience, and tickets purchased online can also be collected at these machines. Accessibility is a key priority at Folkestone West, with step-free access to both platforms, although interchange between platforms requires a navigation via steep roads.
Supporting its passengers with various needs, the station offers accessible ticket machines located beside the entrance to platform 1, as well as an induction loop for those who require hearing assistance. For travelers requiring extra help, staff assistance is available during specified hours, and there are help points throughout the station.
While luggage storage isn't available, the station is secured with CCTV. Additional comforts include accessible toilets and baby changing facilities, albeit available only when staff are present. Refreshment facilities include a coffee kiosk to grab a quick pick-me-up during your travels. Plenty of bicycle storage is available, with sheltered spaces ensuring your bike stays dry.
Folkestone West Station offers robust transportation links, making it easy to continue your journey. Rail replacement services are stationed at platform 2, and with a click, you can find printable information for planning your onward journey by bus. Although there are no cycle hire facilities or available car rentals directly at the station, you can easily find taxis to navigate through Folkestone and beyond.
The station is ideally located, providing direct train services to various popular destinations. Whether you’re setting your sights on the capital with a train from Folkestone West to London St Pancras International or exploring more locally on a scenic ride to Dover Priory, the options are plentiful. The fast trains to Ashford International make international commuting a breeze, linking you to Eurostar services. If you fancy a visit to the historic city of Canterbury, hop on a train to Canterbury West and enjoy the sights.
Looking further afield? Consider heading to the bustling waterfront of Brighton, or even the scenic beaches of Broadstairs. Each destination is seamlessly connected to Folkestone West, making travel both convenient and delightful.
Folkestone West is a hub in its own right, offering every traveler an opportunity to craft unique and memorable adventures across the UK. Whether you're catching a high-speed train to the heart of London or meandering to the coastal jewels of Kent, Folkestone West serves as your perfect starting point. Ready to explore? Pack your bags, secure your tickets, and let your adventure begin from this charming station.
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!