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Trains from London Paddington to
Cardiff Queen Street

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London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street by train

Planning a train journey from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street? The trip usually takes about 2hrs 37 mins, covering approximately 128 miles (207 kilometres). With roughly 32 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 £31.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Departure Station

London Paddington

Frequency

32trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 57 mins

Changes

1-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:23 / 23:56

Distance

128miles
(207 km)

3 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.00

Travelling from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street by Train

Jump on a Train from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 2hrs 37 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Paddington, the quickest trains can get you there in just 1hrs 57 mins. With approximately 32 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 128-mile (207 km) route usually requires just one change, with Elizabeth Line, CrossCountry, GWR, Transport for Wales 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 £31.00, 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 Queen Street!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street

Curious about your trip from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street? 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 London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The travel time between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 37 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 57 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street is 1hrs 57 mins.

How much does the train from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street cost?

Train ticket prices from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 32 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:23, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:56.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street?

First class tickets on trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street?

Amenities on trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Queen Street, 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 London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Paddington & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 32 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street?

Elizabeth Line, CrossCountry, GWR and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Paddington and Cardiff Queen Street, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:23 London Paddington08:22 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
06:48 London Paddington08:52 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
07:12 London Paddington09:22 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
07:48 London Paddington09:52 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
08:18 London Paddington10:22 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
08:48 London Paddington10:52 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
09:18 London Paddington11:22 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
09:48 London Paddington11:52 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
10:15 London Paddington12:22 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
10:48 London Paddington12:52 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
11:16 London Paddington13:30 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
11:48 London Paddington13:52 Cardiff Queen Street1 changeCardiff Central
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street 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 London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street start from as little as £31.00

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 London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street start from £57.60 one way, or £98.80 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 London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street are available for £147.10 one way, or £294.20 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from London Paddington to Cardiff Queen Street is £131.40 & the average saving on this route is £66.00!

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 London Paddington Station

Welcome to London Paddington Station

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.

Facilities and Amenities at Paddington

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.

Travel and Connection to the City

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.

Popular Destinations from Paddington

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.

Final Thoughts

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.

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Queen Street Station

Exploring Cardiff Queen Street Train Station

Welcome to Cardiff Queen Street train station, a key hub in the heart of Wales' lively capital city. Whether you're a local commuter hopping between city stops or a visitor setting off to explore South Wales, Cardiff Queen Street offers all the essentials you might need for a smooth journey. Here, modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the traditional architecture of Cardiff’s bustling center.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Queen Street station is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and accessible travel experience. The ticket office operates from as early as 6 am on weekdays and has plenty of ticket machines available throughout the station. You can collect tickets bought online from these machines and they're easily accessible near the main entrance. The station offers step-free access across all platforms via lifts, making it highly accessible. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are conveniently located on Platform 4 for those traveling with little ones.

For those who might need extra assistance, staff is available to help from 05:15 to midnight on most days. Despite the lack of eateries or shops, the station offers public Wi-Fi so you can stay connected on the go. If cycling is your preferred mode to and from the station, you'll find ample cycle storage with CCTV coverage for peace of mind. Remember, the bustling streets of Cardiff offer numerous nearby cafes and shops to grab a bite or essentials before you catch your train.

Transport Connections

Getting to and from Cardiff Queen Street is a breeze with several options available. There are local bus services with limited offerings right outside the station on weekdays. During rail disruptions, replacement bus services are set up at bus stops nearby, ensuring you aren't left stranded. However, taxis aren't as readily accessible since there are no designated accessible taxi points or spaces.

Popular Destinations

From Cardiff Queen Street, you're well-positioned to explore various places quickly and conveniently. Head down to Cardiff Bay for stunning waterfront views or make your way to Cardiff Central, the city's flagship station. For a taste of local culture, a short ride to Pontypridd might be just what you're looking for.

Planning a longer journey? Don't miss the chance to visit Newport in South Wales or explore the charm of Caerphilly. With reliable connections, your journey starts here.

Closing Remarks

Cardiff Queen Street is more than just a connecting point—it's an invitation to explore the rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes Wales has to offer. Whether you're commuting for work or touring the sights, this station is your gateway to endless adventures. Travel happy and let Cardiff Queen Street set your journey in motion.

Ready to plan your trip? Dive into what's next and make the most of your travel experience from Cardiff Queen Street! Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Paddington