Planning a train journey from Manchester Victoria to Cardiff Queen Street? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 50 mins, covering approximately 144 miles (231 kilometres). With roughly 40 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 Queen Street |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Manchester Victoria |
Frequency | 40trains per day |
Journey Time | from4hrs 12 mins |
Changes | 2-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:43 / 23:52 |
Distance | 144miles (231 km) |
7 Routes | Via Salford Crescent & Manchester Piccadilly & Cardiff Central Via Chester & Cardiff Central Via Manchester Piccadilly & Cardiff Central Via Manchester Piccadilly & Bristol Parkway & Cardiff Central Via Manchester Piccadilly & Crewe & Cardiff Central Via Chester & Shrewsbury & Cardiff Central Via Newton-Le-Willows & Chester & Cardiff Central |
5 Train Operators | Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR |
Prices | from£31.60 |
Jump on a Train from Manchester Victoria to Cardiff Queen Street – It's Quicker Than You Expect!
Considering a train trip from Manchester Victoria 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 50 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Victoria, the quickest trains can get you there in just 4hrs 12 mins. With approximately 40 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 144-mile (231 km) route usually requires just one change, with Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR 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 Queen Street!
The travel time between Manchester Victoria and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 50 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 12 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Victoria to Cardiff Queen Street is 4hrs 12 mins.
Train ticket prices from Manchester Victoria to Cardiff Queen Street 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 Victoria and Cardiff Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 40 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:43, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:52.
First class tickets on trains between Manchester Victoria and Cardiff Queen Street typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Manchester Victoria 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 Victoria 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 Victoria & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 40 possible journeys which require a change.
Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Victoria and Cardiff Queen Street.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Victoria and Cardiff Queen Street, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Tuesday 6th May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 06:40 Manchester Victoria | 11:00 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:06 Manchester Victoria | 11:30 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Chester Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 24 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:40 Manchester Victoria | 11:52 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 12 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:43 Manchester Victoria | 11:52 Cardiff Queen Street | 3 changes | Salford Crescent Manchester Piccadilly Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 9 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:40 Manchester Victoria | 12:52 Cardiff Queen Street | 3 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Bristol Parkway Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 12 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:40 Manchester Victoria | 12:56 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 16 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:45 Manchester Victoria | 12:56 Cardiff Queen Street | 3 changes | Salford Crescent Manchester Piccadilly Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 11 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:06 Manchester Victoria | 13:26 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Chester Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:40 Manchester Victoria | 14:00 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:43 Manchester Victoria | 14:00 Cardiff Queen Street | 3 changes | Salford Crescent Manchester Piccadilly Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 17 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:40 Manchester Victoria | 14:52 Cardiff Queen Street | 3 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Bristol Parkway Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 12 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:40 Manchester Victoria | 14:56 Cardiff Queen Street | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Cardiff Central | 4 hrs 16 mins | Get Tickets | |
Heading to Manchester and considering Manchester Victoria Station as your travel hub? You're in good company. This bustling station is a key player in the UK's rail network, serving not only as a gateway to exploring the vibrant city of Manchester but also a starting point for exciting travel adventures across the UK. Let's dive deep into what Manchester Victoria has to offer, so you can hit the ground running—or should we say, rolling down the tracks!
Manchester Victoria Station is equipped with various facilities to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience. Passengers can easily buy or collect tickets thanks to its well-staffed ticket office, which operates from 06:30-22:00 on weekdays and extends to 22:15 on Sundays. For those in a hurry, ticket machines are readily available, and they include accessible options for all passengers.
Step-free access throughout the station makes movement easy, with lifts between platforms and ramps connecting to the Manchester Metrolink. Despite the absence of waiting rooms, the station provides a sufficient seating area, along with accessible amenities like baby-changing facilities integrated within the accessible toilets. However, some might miss the absence of an ATM or a first-class lounge.
Manchester Victoria doesn't fall short on refreshment options; a large café adorned with seating options is complemented by various coffee and news outlets. Furthermore, the station takes security seriously, with CCTV cameras installed throughout.
Transitioning from train to other modes of transport? You're covered! Right at the station's main entrance, a Rail Replacement Service pick-up point ensures smooth bus transfers. Manchester's buzzing bus network is accessible through services operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach', with routes easily browsable online. The Metroshuttle service offers free city center travel, connecting key spots daily from 07:00-19:00.
Trams are another option, with the Metrolink tram network ferrying passengers around Manchester. Whether it’s a quick jaunt to Manchester Piccadilly or a trip north to Bury, the trams have got you covered. While bicycle hire isn't available at the station, cyclists will find 38 cycle stands by platform 3, monitored by CCTV for added peace of mind.
Curious where you might meander? Manchester Victoria is a gateway to a multitude of destinations. Fancy heading east? Trains regularly zip to Leeds or continue all the way to York. For those with a Beatles tune in their heads, Liverpool Lime Street is just a ticket away. Northerly adventures beckon with routes to Newcastle and Wigan Wallgate. Not to forget the scenic routes to charming towns like Rochdale or Hebden Bridge, each offering its unique charm and history.
Search for more travel ideas and plan your next journey by checking the train schedules and enjoy the rich countryside views or the lively urban landscapes en route to your destination.
As you consider your rail journey from Manchester Victoria, remember that this station isn't merely a stop on the map—it's your portal to exploring both the iconic and the hidden gems of the UK. With comprehensive facilities, easily accessible transport options, and routes to suit a variety of travel whims, this station serves as an inviting starting point. Prepare to dive into the heart of Manchester, its pulse resonating from the tracks and beyond. So why wait? Embrace your next adventure and book your train tickets today!
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!