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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Cathays

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London Waterloo East to Cathays by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Cathays? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 38 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 £31.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Cathays Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cathays

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

30trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs

Changes

5-5no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:30 / 00:03

Distance

132miles
(212 km)

1 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.00

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Cathays by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Cathays – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Cathays? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 38 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 4hrs. With approximately 30 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 132-mile (212 km) route usually requires just one change, with Transport for Wales, GWR, Southeastern 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 Cathays!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Cathays

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Cathays? 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 Waterloo East and Cathays by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Cathays by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 38 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Cathays by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Cathays is 4hrs.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Cathays cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Cathays 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 Waterloo East and Cathays?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Cathays 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 00:30, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:03.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Cathays?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Cathays typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Cathays?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Cathays can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Cathays by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo East 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.

Is it possible to take a direct train from London Waterloo East to Cathays?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Cathays. However, there are 30 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Cathays?

Transport for Wales, GWR and Southeastern are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Cathays.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Cathays?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Cathays, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are London Waterloo East to Cathays Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Cathays on Saturday 3rd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Saturday 3rd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
19:02 London Waterloo East23:07 Cathays5 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Cathays 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 Waterloo East to Cathays 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 Waterloo East to Cathays start from £57.60 one way, or £99.00 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 Waterloo East to Cathays 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.

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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

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.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

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!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

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.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

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.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

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.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

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!

Everything you need to know about Cathays Station

Exploring Cathays Train Station: A Gateway in Cardiff

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.

Facilities and Services at Cathays Station

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.

Travel Connections Beyond the Tracks

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.

Ticketing, Shopping, and Comfort at the Station

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.

Popular Routes from Cathays Station

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.

Wrapping Up Your Journey from Cathays

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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East