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Trains from Macclesfield to
Cardiff Queen Street

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Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street by train

Planning a train journey from Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 33 mins, covering approximately 130 miles (210 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 £41.40, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Departure Station

Macclesfield

Frequency

30trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 54 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:53 / 00:30

Distance

130miles
(210 km)

6 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£41.40

Travelling from Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 33 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Macclesfield, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 54 mins. With approximately 30 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 130-mile (210 km) route usually requires just one change, with Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Northern Rail 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 £41.40, 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 Macclesfield and Cardiff Queen Street

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

The travel time between Macclesfield and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 33 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 54 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street is 3hrs 54 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street can start from as little as £41.40 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 Macclesfield and Cardiff Queen Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Macclesfield and Cardiff Queen Street 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 06:53, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:30.

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

First class tickets on trains between Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield and Cardiff Queen Street?

Amenities on trains between Macclesfield and Cardiff Queen Street can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Macclesfield & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 30 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street?

Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Macclesfield and Cardiff Queen Street.

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

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Macclesfield and Cardiff Queen Street, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street on Thursday 1st May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 1st May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:47 Macclesfield10:38 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesBirmingham New Street
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
06:53 Macclesfield10:38 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesNuneaton
Birmingham New Street
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
07:06 Macclesfield11:00 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesStockport
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
07:08 Macclesfield11:00 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesKidsgrove
Crewe
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
07:26 Macclesfield11:15 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesCheltenham Spa
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
07:46 Macclesfield11:22 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesBirmingham New Street
Bristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
08:26 Macclesfield11:52 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesBristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
08:46 Macclesfield12:22 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesBirmingham New Street
Bristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
09:26 Macclesfield12:52 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesBristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
09:46 Macclesfield13:30 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesBirmingham New Street
Bristol Parkway
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
10:18 Macclesfield14:00 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesKidsgrove
Crewe
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
10:26 Macclesfield14:15 Cardiff Queen Street2 changesCheltenham Spa
Cardiff Central
3 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street start from as little as £41.40

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.

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 Macclesfield to Cardiff Queen Street are available for £88.50 one way

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 Macclesfield Station

Welcome to Macclesfield Train Station

Macclesfield Train Station, a significant gateway in the bustling railway network of the United Kingdom, provides seamless connections to various destinations across the country. Whether you're embarking on a business trip or planning a leisurely getaway, this station offers a range of services designed to facilitate your journey. From well-maintained platform facilities to convenient transport links, Macclesfield Station ensures a smooth and efficient travel experience for all passengers.

Facilities and Amenities

At Macclesfield Station, convenience is a priority. The station features a ticket office with generous opening hours, ensuring that you can secure your tickets with ease. Available from Monday to Sunday with varied timings, the office ensures no journey starts without a ticket in hand. For those who prefer a faster option, ticket machines are available and accessible, including options for collecting tickets bought online.

The station prides itself on being accessible to all. Step-free access is available throughout, allowing ease of movement around the station, and supported by facilities such as ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets. While there are no smartcard facilities, the station does provide seating areas, heated waiting rooms, and helpful staff ready to assist from early morning until late night.

Shops and Services

While waiting for your train, enjoy a variety of refreshment facilities available on the premises, although you'll need to look elsewhere for currency exchange or cash machines. Cyclists can take advantage of plentiful bicycle storage, complete with CCTV for added security. And for digital needs, public Wi-Fi is at your fingertips to keep you connected throughout your journey.

Onward Travel Options

Macclesfield Train Station offers a range of onward travel options. For those in need of a taxi, a rank is conveniently located in the station's lower car park area. If you're planning to continue your journey via bus, all necessary information can be accessed in a printable format to make your onward planning seamless.

For trips requiring a rail replacement service, pickup and drop-off are conveniently located on the station's forecourt, ensuring minimal disruption to your travel plans. The station caters to diverse transport modes, promising flexibility as you travel to and from this vibrant hub.

Popular Routes from Macclesfield

Macclesfield serves as a strategic starting point for numerous journeys. Frequent trains whisk passengers to Manchester Piccadilly, offering effortless connectivity to the city. Further afield, London Euston is also a popular destination, allowing travelers to access the heart of the UK's capital. If you're heading to Stockport or Stoke-On-Trent, services operate frequently from the station's platforms.

For those exploring central England, A journey to Birmingham New Street offers a direct route to the Midlands. Additionally, local services facilitate travel to neighboring towns such as Congleton and Crewe. Expanding your horizons, you might consider a comfortable train ride to Leeds or Liverpool Lime Street. With so many destinations at your disposal, the next great adventure is only a ticket away.

Final Thoughts

Macclesfield Train Station stands as not just a point of departure and arrival but as a facilitator of experiences. The combination of modern amenities, attentive assistance, and robust connectivity makes it a preferred station for many travelers across the UK. Whether it's the daily commute or an exciting vacation, Macclesfield Station is dedicated to getting you where you need to go efficiently and comfortably.

So why wait? Plan your journey today and let Macclesfield Station be the companion for your travel ambitions. Book your tickets now and experience the ease and convenience of rail travel from Macclesfield at its finest.

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 Macclesfield