Planning a train journey from London Paddington to Cardiff Central? The trip usually takes about 2hrs 26 mins, covering approximately 129 miles (208 kilometres). With roughly 34 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £28.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.
Arrival Station | Cardiff Central |
|---|---|
Departure Station | London Paddington |
Frequency | 34trains per day |
Journey Time | from1hrs 43 mins |
Changes | 031 direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:23 / 00:07 |
Distance | 129miles (208 km) |
4 Routes | Direct Via Bristol Temple Meads Via Ealing Broadway & Reading Via Farringdon & Reading |
3 Train Operators | CrossCountry, Elizabeth Line, GWR |
Prices | from£28.00 |
Jump on a Train from London Paddington to Cardiff Central – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from London Paddington to Cardiff Central? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!
Typically, the trip takes about 2hrs 26 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Paddington, the quickest trains can get you there in just 1hrs 43 mins. With approximately 34 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 129-mile (208 km) route usually requires just one change, with CrossCountry, Elizabeth Line, GWR providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!
The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £28.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.
Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Cardiff Central!
The travel time between London Paddington and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 26 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 43 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from London Paddington to Cardiff Central is 1hrs 43 mins.
Train ticket prices from London Paddington to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £28.00 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 London Paddington and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 34 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:23, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:07.
First class tickets on trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Central 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 London Paddington 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.
Yes! There are usually around 31 direct services per day from London Paddington to Cardiff Central
CrossCountry, Elizabeth Line and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between London Paddington and Cardiff Central.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Central, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Friday 25th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 05:23 London Paddington | 08:05 Cardiff Central | Direct | 2 hrs 42 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 06:48 London Paddington | 08:38 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 50 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 07:12 London Paddington | 09:08 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 56 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 07:48 London Paddington | 09:35 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 47 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 08:18 London Paddington | 10:09 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 51 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 08:48 London Paddington | 10:37 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 09:18 London Paddington | 11:07 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 09:48 London Paddington | 11:40 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 10:15 London Paddington | 12:10 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 55 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 10:48 London Paddington | 12:36 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 11:16 London Paddington | 13:16 Cardiff Central | Direct | 2 hrs | Get Tickets | ||
| 11:48 London Paddington | 13:35 Cardiff Central | Direct | 1 hrs 47 mins | Get Tickets | ||
London Paddington Station, a cornerstone of the UK's rail network, is not just a transit hub but a symbol of connectivity and progress. Designed by the renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this bustling station straddles the old and the new, pairing Victorian ironwork with modern conveniences. Whether you're a daily commuter, a globetrotter, or simply passing through, Paddington is more than just a point A; it’s your gateway to adventures, both near and far. Curious travelers can embark on journeys to places like the historic city of Bath or the industrial heritage of Bristol Temple Meads right from this vibrant station.
From ticketing to travel tips, Paddington’s services ensure your trip runs smoothly. Ticket offices operate extensive hours, from 06:10 to 22:15 on weekdays and 07:00 to 22:15 on Sundays, featuring ticket machines equipped for accessibility. For those who’ve purchased tickets online, worry not—you can easily retrieve them at any of the ticket machines on site. Should you require assistance, helpful staff are on duty throughout the station, ready to guide you to departure screens or handle luggage storage. Indeed, with its storied walls echoing the chatter of journeys remembered, Paddington also ensures security thanks to its comprehensive CCTV coverage.
Facilities catering to diverse needs include ramp access to trains and step-free navigation throughout the station, as well as waiting rooms and seating areas conveniently scattered around. A little pause before the next train? Check out waiting rooms open until 22:00, or the exclusive First Class lounge. While automated services make transactions seamless, human touchpoints like customer help points offer a reassuring presence for your queries. Several food outlets are ready to satisfy your cravings, whether it’s a quick coffee or a nutritious meal. Shopping options abound, from news agents to high-street shops, making sure you can grab both travel essentials and treats.
Paddington Station is just as connected outside its walls. The famous London Underground seamlessly integrates with Paddington, connecting you through the Bakerloo, Hammersmith & City, Circle, and, soon, the Elizabeth lines. If taxis are more your speed, you'll find ranks just outside, perfect for whisking you away to London’s iconic landmarks. For cyclists, while there are no bicycle storage facilities at Paddington, you can quickly rent a cycle at a nearby docking station.
The station serves as a conduit to not just Central London but the entire country. If you're heading out locally, hop on a train to places like Tottenham Court Road or Bond Street. For longer journeys, catch a ride to Reading or all the way to Bristol Temple Meads. Looking for leisure? A trip to the natural beauty of Oxford offers a breath of fresh air amongst the dreaming spires.
London Paddington is more than a station; it’s your launchpad to new experiences and memorable adventures. With every train that leaves its platforms, Paddington paves the way to the next chapter of your story. So whether you're commuting for business, on a leisure trip, or setting off on an epic journey across the UK, this vibrant station is here to make your travels simple and stress-free. And remember, no matter where your travels take you, the station's friendly staff and comprehensive facilities are always on hand to aid your journey.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.