A train trip from Gretna Green to Cathays takes about 9hrs 37 mins on average, covering roughly 243 miles (391 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.
Arrival Station | Cathays |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Gretna Green |
Frequency | 11trains per day |
Journey Time | from7hrs 23 mins |
Changes | 4-4no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:21 / 23:45 |
Distance | 243miles (391 km) |
1 Routes | Via Carlisle & Preston (Lancs) & Crewe & Cardiff Central |
4 Train Operators | Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, ScotRail |
Prices | from£59.00 |
Hop on a Train from Gretna Green to Cathays – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Gretna Green 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 9hrs 37 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 7hrs 23 mins. With roughly 11 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 243-mile (391 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, ScotRail, 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 Cathays!
The travel time between Gretna Green and Cathays by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 9hrs 37 mins & the fastest journey takes 7hrs 23 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Gretna Green to Cathays is 7hrs 23 mins.
Train ticket prices from Gretna Green to Cathays 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Gretna Green and Cathays 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.
First class tickets on trains between Gretna Green and Cathays typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green & Cathays. However, there are 11 possible journeys which require a change.
Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales and ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between Gretna Green and Cathays.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Gretna Green and Cathays, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Saturday 3rd May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 05:09 Gretna Green | 14:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Carlisle Preston (Lancs) Crewe Cardiff Central | 8 hrs 53 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 06:46 Gretna Green | 15:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Carlisle Preston (Lancs) Crewe Cardiff Central | 8 hrs 16 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:57 Gretna Green | 16:02 Cathays | 4 changes | Carlisle Preston (Lancs) Crewe Cardiff Central | 8 hrs 5 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:40 Gretna Green | 17:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Carlisle Crewe Cardiff Central | 8 hrs 22 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:44 Gretna Green | 18:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Carlisle Crewe Cardiff Central | 7 hrs 18 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:53 Gretna Green | 19:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Carlisle Crewe Cardiff Central | 7 hrs 9 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:41 Gretna Green | 20:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Carlisle Crewe Cardiff Central | 7 hrs 21 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:40 Gretna Green | 22:06 Cathays | 3 changes | Carlisle Crewe Cardiff Central | 7 hrs 26 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:52 Gretna Green | 23:49 Cathays | 3 changes | Carlisle Crewe Cardiff Central | 7 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!