Planning a train journey from Manchester Airport to Cardiff Central? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 39 mins, covering approximately 136 miles (219 kilometres). With roughly 20 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 £29.10, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.
Arrival Station | Cardiff Central |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Manchester Airport |
Frequency | 20trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 34 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:48 / 00:06 |
Distance | 136miles (219 km) |
4 Routes | Via Manchester Piccadilly & Crewe Via Crewe Via Manchester Piccadilly Via Manchester Piccadilly & Birmingham New Street |
5 Train Operators | Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast |
Prices | from£29.10 |
Jump on a Train from Manchester Airport to Cardiff Central – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from Manchester Airport to Cardiff Central? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!
Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 39 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Airport, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 34 mins. With approximately 20 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 136-mile (219 km) route usually requires just one change, with Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast 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 £29.10, 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 Manchester Airport and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 39 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 34 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Airport to Cardiff Central is 3hrs 34 mins.
Train ticket prices from Manchester Airport to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £29.10 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 Manchester Airport and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 20 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:48, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:06.
First class tickets on trains between Manchester Airport and Cardiff Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Manchester Airport 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 Manchester Airport 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 Manchester Airport & Cardiff Central. However, there are 20 possible journeys which require a change.
Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Airport and Cardiff Central.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Airport and Cardiff Central, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Wednesday 30th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 17:04 Manchester Airport | 20:54 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 50 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:04 Manchester Airport | 21:52 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 19:04 Manchester Airport | 23:04 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs | Get Tickets | |
| 20:04 Manchester Airport | 00:21 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 17 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:04 Manchester Airport | 01:33 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Crewe | 4 hrs 29 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:32 Manchester Airport | 07:24 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Birmingham New Street | 9 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 22:48 Manchester Airport | 07:50 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Crewe | 9 hrs 2 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:46 Manchester Airport | 08:44 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Crewe | 8 hrs 58 mins | Get Tickets | |
For both the wanderlust-laden traveler and the business commuter, Manchester Airport train station is a pivotal gateway in the UK’s vast rail network. Sitting comfortably within the airport complex, it provides easy access to Manchester's bustling city and beyond, simplifying the journey for those flying in or out.
The station’s strategic location makes it a favored stop for passengers transitioning between air and rail, offering smooth connections to major cities across the UK.
The amenities at Manchester Airport station are designed to ensure a smooth and pleasant travel experience. Ticket purchasing is convenient, with a ticket office open from 06:30 to 22:30 daily and multiple ticket machines available for swift service. Smartcards can also be issued at this station although validators are not present. Accessibility is a core focus, with step-free access throughout, plus accessible ticket machines and toilets.
For those with disabilities or requiring extra support, staff assistance is readily available. If you're feeling peckish, head to platforms 2 and 3 where you'll find shops and refreshment facilities. Warm waiting rooms provide comfort during chilly moments, and you can stay connected with public Wi-Fi access across the station.
Manchester Airport station isn’t just about the trains. It's well-linked with other transport modes to smoothly transition you to your next destination. The taxi rank is conveniently located right outside the station, offering a quick transfer option. For those interested in buses, you can find more information on your options to plan your onward journey here.
If you’re keen to explore on four wheels, car hire services are available right within the airport terminal, making it simple to hit the road and discover more of the UK’s picturesque landscapes.
From Manchester Airport station, a tapestry of train routes stretches out, connecting you to some of the most vibrant and historic spots in the north. Catch a train to Manchester Piccadilly and dive into a city pulsating with cultural activity. Or, why not head to Liverpool Lime Street and lose yourself in the birthplace of the Beatles? For those who appreciate the blend of history and modernity, a journey to Leeds is but a ticket away.
For practical day trips or business appointments, catch a train to local stops like Manchester Oxford Road or Deansgate. Whether your destination is York, Chester, or Blackpool North, train travel from Manchester Airport station offers both versatility and convenience.
As a key transport hub, Manchester Airport train station offers much more than just transit; it is a portal into adventure, convenience, and the opportunity to connect with the world beyond. Whether you’re coming or going, for business or leisure, the station’s facilities and extensive travel connections make it a friendly and efficient beginning or end to your journey. So, grab yourself a ticket today and let the rails take you on your next adventure!
Bon voyage!
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.