Planning a train journey from London Waterloo to Cathays? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 55 mins, covering approximately 131 miles (212 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.
Arrival Station | Cathays |
|---|---|
Departure Station | London Waterloo |
Frequency | 51trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 32 mins |
Changes | 2-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:26 / 00:05 |
Distance | 131miles (212 km) |
3 Routes | Via Reading & Cardiff Central Via Guildford & Reading & Cardiff Central Via Clapham Junction & Reading & Cardiff Central |
4 Train Operators | South Western Railway, Transport for Wales, GWR, CrossCountry |
Prices | from£31.00 |
Jump on a Train from London Waterloo to Cathays – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from London Waterloo to Cathays? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!
Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 55 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 32 mins. With approximately 51 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 131-mile (212 km) route usually requires just one change, with South Western Railway, Transport for Wales, GWR, CrossCountry 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!
The travel time between London Waterloo and Cathays by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 55 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 32 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo to Cathays is 3hrs 32 mins.
Train ticket prices from London Waterloo 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo and Cathays 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 00:05.
First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo and Cathays typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between London Waterloo and Cathays 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 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.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo & Cathays. However, there are 51 possible journeys which require a change.
South Western Railway, Transport for Wales, GWR and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo and Cathays.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo and Cathays, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Thursday 1st May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 21:45 London Waterloo | 05:30 Cathays | 3 changes | Guildford Reading Cardiff Central | 7 hrs 45 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:20 London Waterloo | 08:32 Cathays | 2 changes | Reading Cardiff Central | 9 hrs 12 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:57 London Waterloo | 09:02 Cathays | 3 changes | Clapham Junction Reading Cardiff Central | 9 hrs 5 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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!