Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Queen Street? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 24 mins, covering approximately 143 miles (231 kilometres). With roughly 18 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 £28.30, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.
Arrival Station | Cardiff Queen Street |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Manchester Piccadilly |
Frequency | 18trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 21 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:11 / 00:29 |
Distance | 143miles (231 km) |
3 Routes | Via Crewe & Cardiff Central Via Cardiff Central Via Birmingham New Street & Cardiff Central |
3 Train Operators | CrossCountry, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales |
Prices | from£28.30 |
Jump on a Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Queen Street – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from Manchester Piccadilly 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 24 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Piccadilly, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 21 mins. With approximately 18 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 143-mile (231 km) route usually requires just one change, with CrossCountry, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales 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 £28.30, 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 Queen Street!
The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 24 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 21 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Queen Street is 3hrs 21 mins.
Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Queen Street can start from as little as £28.30 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 Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 18 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:11, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:29.
First class tickets on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Queen Street typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Queen Street 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 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.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Manchester Piccadilly & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 18 possible journeys which require a change.
CrossCountry, Northern Rail and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Queen Street.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Queen Street, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Friday 2nd May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 13:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 17:00 Cardiff Queen Street | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 30 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 17:52 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 17:56 Cardiff Queen Street | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 26 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 18:56 Cardiff Queen Street | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 26 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 19:55 Cardiff Queen Street | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 25 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 21:06 Cardiff Queen Street | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 36 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 22:05 Cardiff Queen Street | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 35 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 19:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 23:26 Cardiff Queen Street | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 3 hrs 56 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 05:30 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Crewe Cardiff Central | 8 hrs | Get Tickets | |
| 22:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 07:35 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Birmingham New Street Cardiff Central | 9 hrs 32 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:36 Manchester Piccadilly | 08:04 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Crewe Cardiff Central | 8 hrs 28 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:37 Manchester Piccadilly | 09:30 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Chester Cardiff Central | 9 hrs 53 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!