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Trains from Rainford to
Cardiff Central

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Rainford to Cardiff Central by train

Considering a train trip from Rainford to Cardiff Central? The journey typically lasts around 4hrs 4 mins and spans about 142 miles (228 kilometres). With approximately 15 trains running each day, you're spoiled for choice when scheduling your travel. By booking your tickets in advance, you could secure fares starting from just £27.40, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Rainford to Cardiff Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Central

Departure Station

Rainford

Frequency

15trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 38 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

07:00 / 20:11

Distance

142miles
(228 km)

3 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£27.40

Travelling from Rainford to Cardiff Central by Train

Embark on a train journey from Rainford to Cardiff Central, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 4hrs 4 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 38 mins. With approximately 15 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 142 miles (228 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Merseyrail, Northern Rail offer comfortable seating with plenty of room for your luggage.

Here's the best part: by booking your tickets in advance, you can snag fares starting from only £27.40, offering a substantial saving over buying tickets at the last minute. For even more savings, consider traveling during Off-Peak times or using a Railcard.

Ready to secure those budget-friendly tickets? Use our Journey Planner to discover the latest deals and keep your travel costs down. Dive into more travel tips below or consult our timetable for up-to-date train schedules. All aboard for Cardiff Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Rainford and Cardiff Central

Curious about your trip from Rainford to Cardiff Central? 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 Rainford and Cardiff Central by train?

The travel time between Rainford and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 4 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 38 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Rainford and Cardiff Central by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Rainford to Cardiff Central is 3hrs 38 mins.

How much does the train from Rainford to Cardiff Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Rainford to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £27.40 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 Rainford and Cardiff Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Rainford and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 15 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 07:00, and the last train of the day leaves at 20:11.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Rainford and Cardiff Central?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Rainford and Cardiff Central?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Rainford to Cardiff Central by train?

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

Is it possible to take a direct train from Rainford to Cardiff Central?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Rainford & Cardiff Central. However, there are 15 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Rainford to Cardiff Central?

Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Merseyrail and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Rainford and Cardiff Central.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Rainford and Cardiff Central?

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

When are Rainford to Cardiff Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Rainford to Cardiff Central on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
10:00 Rainford13:49 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
3 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
10:54 Rainford14:44 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
3 hrs 50 mins Get Tickets
12:00 Rainford15:43 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
3 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
13:00 Rainford16:46 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
3 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
14:00 Rainford17:44 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
14:24 Rainford19:20 Cardiff Central3 changesHeadbolt Lane
Liverpool Central
Chester
4 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
14:46 Rainford19:27 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
16:00 Rainford19:44 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
16:57 Rainford20:54 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
3 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
18:00 Rainford21:52 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
3 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
18:52 Rainford23:00 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
4 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
19:52 Rainford01:33 Cardiff Central3 changesWigan North Western
Crewe
5 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Rainford to Cardiff Central 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 Rainford to Cardiff Central start from as little as £27.40

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.

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 Rainford to Cardiff Central are available for £100.10 one way

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

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

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 Rainford Station

Discovering Rainford Train Station

Travelers in the UK often seek convenient options to explore charming destinations, and Rainford train station is one such gateway for those exploring the northwestern region of England. Situated in the Merseyside area, Rainford station offers both residents and tourists a stepping stone into various attractive locations. As of late 2023, the station continues to serve as a vital transport hub, enhancing connectivity despite its modest offerings in terms of station amenities. Let's delve into what Rainford station has to offer and explore popular travel options from this quaint station.

Facilities at Rainford Train Station

Rainford station may not boast a plethora of amenities, but it covers the essentials for its passengers. Although there is no ticket office, travelers can easily get their tickets from machines placed at the station. These machines also support online ticket collection and are designed to be accessible. For passengers requiring additional support, induction loops are available, ensuring that travelers with hearing impairments can get information effectively.

The station offers step-free access, albeit with some limitations due to the steep ramps and uneven stone flooring. Assistance is offered on trains, with conductors available to help passengers board. For those who require more assistance prior to their journey, Passenger Assist can be arranged in advance. While there are no toilets or waiting rooms, there is a seating area for passengers waiting at the platform. It's important to note that there are no refreshment facilities, Wi-Fi, ATMs, or cycle storage at Rainford. Convenient free parking is available, enhancing the accessibility of the station for those driving in from nearby areas.

Travel Connections and Onward Journeys

Rainford station is well-connected through various transport links, making onward travel convenient. For unforeseen circumstances like rail maintenance or disruptions, the Rail Replacement Service operates from the bus stop outside the Junction Pub. While there are no local taxi services directly operating from the station, travellers can reference Northern Railway's dedicated taxi service webpage for options.

Local buses provide another layer of connectivity, with Busline providing information at 0871 200 2233. However, bicycle hire is unfortunately not available. Given these options, passengers can plan their journeys efficiently, taking advantage of the bus and taxi services when planning their travel itinerary from Rainford.

Popular Destinations from Rainford

There's a diverse selection of destinations accessible via train from Rainford that can allure different kinds of travelers. Those heading towards bustling urban centers can catch a train to Manchester Victoria or Liverpool Lime Street. For those preferring to explore neighboring areas, stations like Wigan Wallgate and Liverpool Central are popular choices. Rainford even connects to capital city stations like London Euston for those planning a more extensive journey.

The variety and regularity of these routes make Rainford a versatile starting point for both casual day trips and more extended travel plans across the UK.

Embarking on Your Journey from Rainford

Whether you’re planning a day trip to the vibrant streets of Manchester or an excursion to Liverpool's cultural heart, Rainford train station provides the connectivity you need. While the station lacks some facilities, its charm lies in its simplicity and its role as a bridge to wider travel opportunities. As you plot your journey, consider purchasing rail tickets in advance, which can be conveniently collected at the station itself. This way, you can enjoy your travels with ease, knowing your journey from Rainford has been plotted hassle-free.

In conclusion, Rainford train station is more than just a stop along the rails. It’s a gateway, a place that connects you to both local delights and major cities. With the British rail network at your service, the world - or at least a good part of the UK - can be your oyster.

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Central Station

Discover Cardiff Central Train Station

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.

Facilities and Amenities

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.

Connectivity and Travel Links

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!

Popular Destinations

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.

In Conclusion

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.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Rainford