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Trains from London Waterloo to
Cardiff Queen Street

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London Waterloo to Cardiff Queen Street by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo to Cardiff Queen Street? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 44 mins, covering approximately 131 miles (211 kilometres). With roughly 51 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 to Cardiff Queen Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Departure Station

London Waterloo

Frequency

51trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 25 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:26 / 01:00

Distance

131miles
(211 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.00

Travelling from London Waterloo to Cardiff Queen Street by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 44 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 25 mins. With approximately 51 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 131-mile (211 km) route usually requires just one change, with GWR, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, South Western Railway 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 Waterloo and Cardiff Queen Street

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

The travel time between London Waterloo and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 44 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 25 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo to Cardiff Queen Street is 3hrs 25 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo 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 Waterloo and Cardiff Queen Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo and Cardiff Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 51 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:26, and the last train of the day leaves at 01:00.

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

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo 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 Waterloo and Cardiff Queen Street?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo to Cardiff Queen Street?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 51 possible journeys which require a change.

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

GWR, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry and South Western Railway are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo and Cardiff Queen Street.

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

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo 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 Waterloo to Cardiff Queen Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo to Cardiff Queen Street on Sunday 4th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Sunday 4th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:38 London Waterloo08:21 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesReading
Cardiff Central
8 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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.

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 Station

London Waterloo Train Station: A Hub of Vibrancy and Connectivity

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.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo

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.

Shopping, Dining, and More

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.

Getting to and From Waterloo: Transport Options

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.

Destinations to Explore from London Waterloo

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.

Conclusion: Beyond the Commute

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!

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 Waterloo