Planning a train journey from Manchester Stations to Cardiff Central? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 52 mins, covering approximately 144 miles (232 kilometres). With roughly 22 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 £31.60, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.
Arrival Station | Cardiff Central |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Manchester Stations |
Frequency | 22trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 8 mins |
Changes | 015 direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:11 / 00:29 |
Distance | 144miles (232 km) |
5 Routes | Via Crewe & Newport (South Wales) Direct Via Bristol Parkway Via Crewe Via Crewe & Shrewsbury |
4 Train Operators | Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR, Northern Rail |
Prices | from£31.60 |
Jump on a Train from Manchester Stations to Cardiff Central – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from Manchester Stations to Cardiff Central? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!
Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 52 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Stations, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 8 mins. With approximately 22 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 144-mile (232 km) route usually requires just one change, with Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR, 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 £31.60, 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 Stations and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 52 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 8 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Stations to Cardiff Central is 3hrs 8 mins.
Train ticket prices from Manchester Stations to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £31.60 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 Stations and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 22 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 Stations and Cardiff Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Manchester Stations 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 Stations 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.
Yes! There are usually around 15 direct services per day from Manchester Stations to Cardiff Central
Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Stations and Cardiff Central.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Stations and Cardiff Central, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Friday 25th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 05:11 Manchester Piccadilly | 08:38 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | Crewe Newport (South Wales) | 3 hrs 27 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 06:27 Manchester Piccadilly | 09:47 Cardiff Central | Direct | 3 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 07:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 10:49 Cardiff Central | Direct | 3 hrs 19 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 08:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 11:38 Cardiff Central | Direct | 3 hrs 8 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 09:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 12:36 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 33 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 12:45 Cardiff Central | Direct | 3 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 10:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 13:49 Cardiff Central | Direct | 3 hrs 19 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 11:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 14:36 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 33 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 14:44 Cardiff Central | Direct | 3 hrs 14 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 12:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 15:43 Cardiff Central | Direct | 3 hrs 13 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 13:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 16:46 Cardiff Central | Direct | 3 hrs 16 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 14:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 17:35 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 32 mins | Get Tickets | |
The following stations are part of this group. Click a station for more information.
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.