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Trains from Gretna Green to
Cardiff Central

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Gretna Green to Cardiff Central by train

A train trip from Gretna Green to Cardiff Central takes about 9hrs 1 mins on average, covering roughly 243 miles (392 kilometres). With around 11 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 £59.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Gretna Green to Cardiff Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Central

Departure Station

Gretna Green

Frequency

11trains
per day

Journey Time

from7hrs 5 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:21 / 23:45

Distance

243miles
(392 km)

1 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£59.00

Travelling from Gretna Green to Cardiff Central by Train

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

Planning to travel from Gretna Green 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 9hrs 1 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 7hrs 5 mins. With roughly 11 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 243-mile (392 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, 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 £59.00 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 Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Gretna Green and Cardiff Central

Curious about your trip from Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green and Cardiff Central by train?

The travel time between Gretna Green and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 9hrs 1 mins & the fastest journey takes 7hrs 5 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Gretna Green and Cardiff Central by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Gretna Green to Cardiff Central is 7hrs 5 mins.

How much does the train from Gretna Green to Cardiff Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Gretna Green to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £59.00 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Gretna Green and Cardiff Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Gretna Green and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 11 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:21, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:45.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Gretna Green and Cardiff Central?

First class tickets on trains between Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green and Cardiff Central?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green to Cardiff Central?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Gretna Green & Cardiff Central. However, there are 11 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Gretna Green to Cardiff Central?

ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Gretna Green and Cardiff Central.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Gretna Green and Cardiff Central?

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

When are Gretna Green to Cardiff Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Gretna Green to Cardiff Central on Tuesday 29th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Tuesday 29th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
18:25 Gretna Green00:21 Cardiff Central2 changesCarlisle
Crewe
5 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
19:27 Gretna Green01:33 Cardiff Central2 changesCarlisle
Crewe
6 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
23:32 Gretna Green10:49 Cardiff Central3 changesCarlisle
Preston (Lancs)
Crewe
11 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green to Cardiff Central start from as little as £59.00

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.

Off Peak fares from Gretna Green to Cardiff Central start from £146.00 one way, or £208.60 return

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 Gretna Green to Cardiff Central are available for £152.40 one way, or £304.80 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 Gretna Green Station

Discover Gretna Green Train Station

Nestled in the village renowned for its romantic elopements, Gretna Green train station is a quaint and storied stop on the UK rail network. While the village itself boasts a rich history that dates back centuries—a beacon for lovers crossing the border—modern-day travelers will find an unassuming yet charming railway station that serves as a gateway to both local adventures and destinations further afield.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Gretna Green station is all about simplicity and maintaining a connection to its charming surroundings without the hustle of large urban stations. While this compact station does not have onsite ticket purchasing facilities or machines, it makes up for it with ease of use. There is no dedicated ticket office, but travelers can pre-purchase tickets online, ensuring a smooth travel experience. The presence of smartcard validators adds a touch of modern convenience for regular rail users. Additionally, despite being small, the station is partially accessible with step-free access available to both platforms, making it welcoming for passengers with reduced mobility.

Other amenities focus on the essentials. There are no refreshment facilities, shops, or ATMs, so plan accordingly before you arrive. For those needing transportation, the station provides clear options for taxis via Train Taxi services. Bus travel is supported through local services detailed at TravelLine Scotland’s website, offering flexibility for those exploring the surrounding areas.

Onward Travel Opportunities

Whether you're staying local or embarking on a longer journey, Gretna Green station serves as a springboard for all destinations. With the station's proximity to the Scottish border, exciting cities like Carlisle and Dumfries are a short ride away—a brief train journey from Gretna Green to Carlisle opens up a world of shops, museums, and the historic Carlisle Castle. Further afield, options are aplenty with direct trains reaching larger cities such as Glasgow and London. For an adventurous day trip, why not head from Gretna Green to Annan or enjoy the bustling streets of Glasgow Central?

For those thinking about proceeding to Edinburgh, train services are readily available, and you can find more details by visiting the dedicated page for Gretna Green to Edinburgh Waverley train times. When the journey calls for an English escape, services from Gretna Green can take you to iconic locations like Liverpool or Newcastle, making planning seamless with online booking options to help smooth out your travel itinerary.

The Charm of Gretna Green Awaits

While it may not be London's bustling King's Cross, Gretna Green station offers its own unique charm with historical significance and a peaceful setting. It stands as a fitting gateway for travelers keen to explore both historical intrigue and the diverse landscapes of England and Scotland. Its straightforward, no-frills approach is part of what makes traveling from here a pleasant experience. For those wishing to visit this historical nook, considering all travel options from Gretna Green to popular destinations like Manchester and Birmingham is as easy as a few clicks on an online ticket service.

In conclusion, Gretna Green station might be modest in structure, but it provides travelers with ample opportunities to delve into its romantic folklore while easily reaching some of the UK’s most vibrant cities. Whether you're lingering in the area or seeking broader horizons, there's a route from Gretna Green ready to whisk you away.

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 Gretna Green