Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Cardiff Central? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 58 mins, covering approximately 132 miles (212 kilometres). With roughly 30 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 Waterloo East |
Frequency | 30trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 30 mins |
Changes | 4-4no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 00:16 / 23:04 |
Distance | 132miles (212 km) |
1 Routes | Via London Charing Cross & Lewisham & London Bridge & London Paddington |
2 Train Operators | Southeastern, GWR |
Prices | from£28.00 |
Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Cardiff Central – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Cardiff Central? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!
Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 58 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 30 mins. With approximately 30 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 132-mile (212 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southeastern, 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 Waterloo East and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 58 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 30 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Cardiff Central is 3hrs 30 mins.
Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East 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 Waterloo East and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 30 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:16, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:04.
First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Cardiff Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East 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 Waterloo East 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.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Cardiff Central. However, there are 30 possible journeys which require a change.
Southeastern and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Cardiff Central.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East 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 | |
| 09:21 London Waterloo East | 13:16 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 55 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:04 London Waterloo East | 13:35 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:32 London Waterloo East | 14:07 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 35 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:02 London Waterloo East | 14:36 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 34 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:32 London Waterloo East | 15:09 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 37 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:02 London Waterloo East | 15:34 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 32 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:32 London Waterloo East | 16:08 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 36 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:02 London Waterloo East | 16:36 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 34 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:32 London Waterloo East | 17:06 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 34 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:51 London Waterloo East | 17:35 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 44 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:32 London Waterloo East | 18:05 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 33 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:02 London Waterloo East | 18:37 Cardiff Central | 4 changes | London Charing Cross Lewisham London Bridge London Paddington | 3 hrs 35 mins | Get Tickets | |
Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.
Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.
For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!
Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.
Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.
As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.
Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the 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.