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Trains from Nottingham to
Cardiff Queen Street

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Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street by train

Planning a train journey from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 12 mins, covering approximately 132 miles (213 kilometres). With roughly 21 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 £39.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Departure Station

Nottingham

Frequency

21trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 44 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:00 / 00:15

Distance

132miles
(213 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£39.00

Travelling from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street by Train

Jump on a Train from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from Nottingham 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 12 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Nottingham, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 44 mins. With approximately 21 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 132-mile (213 km) route usually requires just one change, with GWR, East Midlands Railway, Transport for Wales, CrossCountry 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 £39.00, 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!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street

Curious about your trip from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The travel time between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 12 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 44 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street is 3hrs 44 mins.

How much does the train from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street cost?

Train ticket prices from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street can start from as little as £39.00 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 21 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:00, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:15.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street?

First class tickets on trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street?

Amenities on trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Nottingham 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.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Nottingham & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 21 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street?

GWR, East Midlands Railway, Transport for Wales and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Queen Street, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street on Monday 5th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Monday 5th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:49 Nottingham09:38 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesDerby
Birmingham New Street
Cardiff Central
9 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street start from as little as £39.00

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street start from £97.60 one way, or £99.00 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street are available for £135.20 one way, or £161.80 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Nottingham to Cardiff Queen Street is £17.00 & the average saving on this route is £17.00!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Nottingham Station

Welcome to Nottingham Train Station

Nottingham Train Station, a hub of connectivity in the heart of England, is an essential part of the city’s vibrant transport network. As the principal railway station in Nottingham, it serves as the nerve center for travelers heading to and from this historic city known for its rich heritage and cutting-edge innovations. Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional visitor, navigating this busy station can be a breeze when you know what to expect.

Facilities and Amenities

This buzzing station is more than just a gateway to your next destination. It's equipped with all the facilities you need for a comfortable and convenient journey. Nottingham Station hosts a well-staffed ticket office open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 7:15 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays. Travelers can also utilize ticket machines for a quicker, self-service option, including accessible machines for those who need them. The station supports smartcards and offers easy ticket collection services for online purchases.

For those who require assistance, Nottingham Station ensures easy and inclusive access with features like step-free access throughout, available lifts to all platforms, and numerous ramps. Help points and an information desk are ready to assist, making it easier for everyone to travel with confidence. The presence of CCTVs adds an extra layer of security to your trip.

When it comes to creature comforts, you'll find heated waiting rooms, accessible restrooms, including a baby changing facility, and a variety of cafes and vending machines for a quick snack or refreshment. There’s also a chance to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at the on-site shops. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi is not yet available, so be sure to download all your important details before you arrive.

Transport Connections for Seamless Travel

Getting to and from Nottingham Station is made simple with a range of transport options. Rail replacement buses conveniently operate from Carrington Street directly in front of the station, ensuring you're never stranded if regular services are suspended. For those looking to explore the city, local bus services connect the station to various parts of Nottingham, managed by a comprehensive network.

Nottingham is also part of the vibrant tram network known as the Nottingham Express Transit. Not to mention, there's through-ticketing available for seamless travel to East Midlands Airport, courtesy of the regular Skylink service operated by Nottingham City Transport. This makes your journey from the train station to the skies as smooth as possible.

Discover Popular Routes

Nottingham Train Station serves as a gateway to numerous exciting destinations. Fancy a quick trip to the bustling metropolis of London? Trains from Nottingham to London St Pancras International make that journey straightforward. If you're headed to scenic peak district locales or nearby cities like Sheffield or Leicester, Nottingham is the ideal starting point thanks to its robust rail connections.

Explore regional gems with ease by catching trains to local hotspots like Grantham, Lincoln, or Skegness. With a plethora of destinations accessible from Nottingham, from Birmingham New Street to the charming town of Hucknall, the opportunities for urban adventures and tranquil retreats are vast and varied.

A Closing Note: Your Journey Begins Here

With rich historical significance and modern amenities, Nottingham Train Station is more than a stop; it's a launching pad for discovery, innovation, and memory-making experiences. As you plan your rail travels, whether for business or pleasure, let Nottingham Station be your steadfast companion on the rails, ensuring your journey is pleasant and prompt. Find your ideal train ticket today and step into a realm of possibilities that await just beyond the platform.

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Queen Street Station

Exploring Cardiff Queen Street Train Station

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.

Facilities and Amenities

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.

Transport Connections

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.

Popular Destinations

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.

Closing Remarks

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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Nottingham