Planning a train journey from London Waterloo to Cardiff Central? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 24 mins, covering approximately 132 miles (212 kilometres). With roughly 41 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 |
Frequency | 41trains per day |
Journey Time | from2hrs 45 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:26 / 00:05 |
Distance | 132miles (212 km) |
4 Routes | Via Reading Via Basingstoke & Reading Via Guildford & Reading Via Clapham Junction & Reading |
3 Train Operators | CrossCountry, South Western Railway, GWR |
Prices | from£28.00 |
Jump on a Train from London Waterloo to Cardiff Central – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from London Waterloo to Cardiff Central? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!
Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 24 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo, the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 45 mins. With approximately 41 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 132-mile (212 km) route usually requires just one change, with CrossCountry, South Western Railway, 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 and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 24 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 45 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo to Cardiff Central is 2hrs 45 mins.
Train ticket prices from London Waterloo 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 and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 41 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:26, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:05.
First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo and Cardiff Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between London Waterloo 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 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 & Cardiff Central. However, there are 41 possible journeys which require a change.
CrossCountry, South Western Railway and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo and Cardiff Central.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo 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 | |
| 13:05 London Waterloo | 16:08 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Basingstoke Reading | 3 hrs 3 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:50 London Waterloo | 16:36 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Basingstoke Reading | 2 hrs 46 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:05 London Waterloo | 17:06 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Basingstoke Reading | 3 hrs 1 min | Get Tickets | |
| 14:20 London Waterloo | 17:35 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Reading | 3 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:30 London Waterloo | 17:35 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Guildford Reading | 3 hrs 5 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:20 London Waterloo | 18:37 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Reading | 3 hrs 17 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:30 London Waterloo | 18:37 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Guildford Reading | 3 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:05 London Waterloo | 19:10 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Basingstoke Reading | 3 hrs 5 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:20 London Waterloo | 19:35 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Reading | 3 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:30 London Waterloo | 19:35 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Guildford Reading | 3 hrs 5 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:05 London Waterloo | 20:14 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Basingstoke Reading | 3 hrs 9 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:35 London Waterloo | 20:38 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Basingstoke Reading | 3 hrs 3 mins | Get Tickets | |
Nestled in the heart of London, Waterloo Station stands as a bustling epicenter for commuters and travelers alike, serving as the beating heart of UK's rail network. From the breath-taking grandeur of its architecture to its vibrant hustle and bustle, it's a place where the world feels like it's at your fingertips. Beyond the picturesque platforms, London Waterloo isn't just about catching a train; it's an experience that embraces convenience, accessibility, and variety.
London Waterloo Station is replete with facilities designed to make your journey smooth and hassle-free. Its ticket office operates from 5:30 AM to 11:15 PM during weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly adjusted times on Sundays. For those who prefer to plan their travels in advance, ticket machines are available on the main concourse, making online ticket collection straightforward and accessible. Moreover, there's an induction loop system making communication easy for the hearing impaired.
Accessibility is one of the key strengths of Waterloo Station, with step-free access available throughout. The station is ably equipped to cater to the needs of all passengers, featuring accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and seating areas to ensure comfort. Help points, dedicated staff assistance, and an extensive customer service offering guarantee that you’re never without support.
Beyond travel, the station's main concourse presents a generous selection of shopping and dining options. From seated dining experiences to convenient takeaways, the station has every palate covered. A mix of shops, including a pharmacy, clothing stores, and more, ensure that whatever last-minute essentials you may need, you’ll find them on hand.
Moving beyond the platforms, London Waterloo Station acts as a dynamic node connecting you with London and beyond. With a dedicated taxi rank and a close-knit relationship with London's extensive bus and Underground services, getting around is both straightforward and efficient. Waterloo Underground station is served by several lines, including the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines making your planning effortless.
For those looking to explore the city on two wheels, Santander Cycle hire bikes are available nearby. The station's proximity to the South Bank makes it an inviting starting point for a leisurely stroll or cycle along the riverside for a touch of culture and picturesque views.
If you're planning a journey, London Waterloo connects you with an array of popular destinations. Whether it’s a quick trip to nearby Clapham Junction, a family day out to Wimbledon, or a scenic journey further afield to Southampton Central, the station offers a gateway to adventure.
The list of travel options is extensive, with trips to Guildford, Richmond, and Basingstoke providing just a glimpse of the destinations accessible from Waterloo.
London Waterloo isn’t just a station; it’s a launchpad for discovery and experience. Whether you're on a daily commute or embarking on a new journey, the station's unparalleled facilities and connectivity ensure that every trip is a pleasure. As you step into this vibrant hub, you become part of a tradition of travel and exploration, stretching back over a century and continuing to evolve with the city around it.
So, whether you are buying tickets online or from the station, you can be assured of a seamless experience at London Waterloo. It’s not just where journeys end and begin, but where memories are made and adventures are born. Come, explore; the world from London Waterloo awaits you!
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.