Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Bay? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 30 mins, covering approximately 144 miles (232 kilometres). With roughly 17 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 £29.30, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.
Arrival Station | Cardiff Bay |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Manchester Piccadilly |
Frequency | 17trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 39 mins |
Changes | 2-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:05 / 00:29 |
Distance | 144miles (232 km) |
2 Routes | Via Crewe & Cardiff Central & Cardiff Queen Street Via Cardiff Central & Cardiff Queen Street |
3 Train Operators | Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast |
Prices | from£29.30 |
Jump on a Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Bay – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Bay? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!
Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 30 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Piccadilly, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 39 mins. With approximately 17 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 144-mile (232 km) route usually requires just one change, with Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, 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 £29.30, 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 Bay!
The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Bay by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 30 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 39 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Bay is 3hrs 39 mins.
Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Bay can start from as little as £29.30 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 Piccadilly and Cardiff Bay vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 17 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:05, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:29.
First class tickets on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Bay typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Bay 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 Piccadilly and Cardiff Bay. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Bay, 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 Piccadilly & Cardiff Bay. However, there are 17 possible journeys which require a change.
Northern Rail, Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Bay.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Bay, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Monday 4th August | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 07:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 11:24 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 12:06 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 39 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 13:06 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 39 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 14:24 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 15:06 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 39 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 16:06 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 39 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 17:24 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 18:06 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 39 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 19:24 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 20:06 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 39 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 21:24 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 22:25 Cardiff Bay | 2 changes | Cardiff Central Cardiff Queen Street | 3 hrs 58 mins | Get Tickets | |
Manchester Piccadilly is an iconic travel hub, bustling with energy and packed with features to smooth your journey. Serving millions of passengers each year, it stands as a crucial entry and exit point for both the city of Manchester and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a daily commuter or a tourist navigating the UK rail system, understanding the facilities and services at Manchester Piccadilly can enhance your travel experience significantly.
Manchester Piccadilly expertly caters to passenger needs with a variety of facilities. The ticket office operates diligently from as early as 4:30 am to 10:30 pm through the week, ensuring you can grab a ticket for those early morning travels. For those tech-savvy commuters, ticket machines are readily available and accessible, allowing smooth online ticket collection. The station is well-equipped for accessibility; offering step-free access, ramps, and tactile warning strips for the visually impaired make it a user-friendly place for all travelers.
The station boasts free public Wi-Fi, ATM machines, and a plethora of shops and dining options. Coffee lovers will appreciate the numerous kiosks, while those in need of essentials can visit the mini supermarkets and pharmacies located within the station. The station even went the extra mile to ensure comfort by providing lounges, including a 1st Class Lounge and an Assisted Travel Lounge, making it an amenable waiting experience.
Getting to and from Manchester Piccadilly is a breeze with its robust transport links. Metrolink trams connect you to key destinations like Bury, Rochdale, and Manchester Airport, among others. For those preferring buses, a network of frequent local services are operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach'. There's also a free bus service that runs every ten minutes around the city center—a convenient option for quick city hops.
The taxi rank located at the Fairfield Street exit offers service between 2 am to 5 am, giving you round-the-clock availability. If you're looking to explore the city on two wheels, Brompton bicycles are available for hire with two flexible tariffs. Additionally, if you're embarking on a flight, Manchester International Airport is just 9-10 miles away with several direct train services throughout the day. Car hire agents are also a short walk from the station, providing flexibility in travel.
If you have a penchant for exploring, Manchester Piccadilly serves as the starting point for many fascinating journeys. The station offers direct links to major destinations such as London Euston, Liverpool Lime Street, and Glasgow Central. Local routes include convenient trips to nearby spots like Stockport and Manchester Airport, ensuring you're never far from a new adventure.
Whether your travels stem from business, leisure, or curiosity, Manchester Piccadilly is more than just a train station—it's a gateway to new experiences and connections. Leveraging its exceptional facilities and detailed information will set you up for a successful journey, unlocking the vast and vibrant landscapes of the UK. Don't just arrive; embark on your journey with enthusiasm and ease from Manchester Piccadilly, where the rhythm of the railways meets the heartbeat of the city.
Looking to explore the beautiful Cardiff Bay area or need a convenient station for your daily commute? Cardiff Bay Train Station is a hub poised to cater to every traveler, whether you're visiting for leisure or business. Although a smaller station, it offers essential services to kickstart your journey with ease.
While Cardiff Bay Train Station may not boast extensive amenities, it does efficiently cover the key necessities for travelers. You won't find a ticket office but don’t fret! Ticket machines are there to facilitate collection of pre-purchased tickets, accept both cash and cards, and are accessible for all travelers, including those who use wheelchairs. Notably, the station provides step-free access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, maintaining its 'Category A' accessibility status.
For those curious about smart travel, Cardiff Bay does not issue smartcards, but validators are available for use. And should you need assistance, a help point is there, alongside departure and arrival screens, ensuring you’re kept in the loop about train statuses. Be sure to take advantage of the assistance service, which permits bookings up to two hours before your trip starts. Whenever needed, contacting the Transport for Wales Customer Relations team is a few clicks away.
Effortlessly commute in and out of Cardiff Bay with the station’s array of transport links. A strategically placed rail replacement bus stop awaits on Bute Street, and bus services are conveniently available right outside the station. If you fancy cycling over public transport, Nextbike/Ovo bike sharing has you covered, with docking stations ready at Lloyd George Avenue for exploring the city on two wheels.
Cardiff Bay is more than just a starting point; it’s a gateway to numerous popular destinations throughout Wales. Plan a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street for shopping or head towards Cardiff Central for further connections. Delight in a scenic ride to Barry Island, or join the cultural festivities in Swansea. Whether for work or pleasure, hopping on a train from Cardiff Bay will take you anywhere you need to go with ease.
While it may not resemble the grand European stations with vast facilities, Cardiff Bay Train Station still holds its charm. Simple, efficient, and conveniently located, it stands ready to cater to your travel needs without hassle. So, plan your trip, grab your tickets, and let Cardiff Bay Train Station be your gateway to exploring the vibrant scenes and serene landscapes of Wales.
Need more detailed travel information or want to organize your tickets beforehand? Visit National Rail's official website for a seamless experience.