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Trains from Rainham (Essex) to
Cardiff Queen Street

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Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street by train

Considering a train trip from Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street? The journey typically lasts around 3hrs 52 mins and spans about 144 miles (232 kilometres). With approximately 30 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 £27.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Departure Station

Rainham (Essex)

Frequency

30trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 24 mins

Changes

3-5no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:05 / 00:17

Distance

144miles
(232 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£27.00

Travelling from Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street by Train

Embark on a train journey from Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 3hrs 52 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 24 mins. With approximately 30 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 144 miles (232 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like c2c, Transport for Wales, GWR, Elizabeth Line 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 £27.00, 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 Queen Street!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street

Curious about your trip from Rainham (Essex) 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 Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The travel time between Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street 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 24 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street is 3hrs 24 mins.

How much does the train from Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street cost?

Train ticket prices from Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street can start from as little as £27.00 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 Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 30 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:05, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:17.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street?

First class tickets on trains between Rainham (Essex) 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 Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Rainham (Essex) 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 Rainham (Essex) 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 Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Rainham (Essex) & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 30 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street?

c2c, Transport for Wales, GWR and Elizabeth Line are the main train operating companies running services between Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Rainham (Essex) and Cardiff Queen Street?

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

When are Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street on Tuesday 6th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 6th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
21:21 Rainham (Essex)05:28 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
8 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
23:53 Rainham (Essex)08:22 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesLondon Fenchurch Street
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
8 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Rainham (Essex) 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 Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street start from as little as £27.00

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 Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street start from £100.30 one way, or £101.30 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 Rainham (Essex) to Cardiff Queen Street are available for £149.50 one way, or £299.00 return

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 Rainham (Essex) Station

Discovering Rainham (Essex) Train Station

Rainham (Essex) train station serves as a gateway to convenience and exploration in the vibrant county of Essex. Whether commuting to the capital or exploring more tranquil destinations, this station offers a range of amenities and services to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Within easy reach of London, Rainham (Essex) presents a perfect starting point for adventures or daily commutes.

Station Facilities and Services

Rainham (Essex) station prioritizes passenger comfort with a number of useful facilities. Ticketing is seamless with electronic ticket machines and the added convenience of collecting pre-purchased tickets. The ticket office operates on weekdays from 06:15 to 09:50—ideal for early morning travelers. Accessibility is a notable feature; the station proudly offers step-free access across its premises. There are five accessible parking spaces to ensure easy access for those with mobility challenges. Induction loops and accessible toilets located on Platform 2 cater to the needs of all travelers.

Though lacking a waiting room or onsite shops, Platform 2 features refreshment facilities for that caffeine kick pre-journey, and free public Wi-Fi keeps you connected on the go. While there's no ATM machine, secure bicycle storage with CCTV protection is available for cyclists. Safety is prioritized with CCTV monitoring throughout the site.

Onward Travel Connections

Need onward travel information at Rainham (Essex)? There's a wealth of options at your fingertips. Rail replacement services commence from Bus Stop N at the station's entrance, ensuring a backup plan during train service disruptions. Despite the absence of a dedicated taxi rank, detailed bus service information is available to assist in planning the next leg of your journey. This ease of coordination makes the station a hub not just for starting but also extending your travels.

Exciting Travel Destinations

The station acts as a portal to numerous thrilling destinations across the UK. For city explorers, a journey from Rainham (Essex) to iconic locations like West Ham and London Fenchurch Street is easily accessible. For those seeking leisure, consider heading to Grays or the coastal gems like Southend Central. The station's connections provide countless possibilities for both routine travels and spontaneous adventures.

Enhancing Your Travel Experience

Rainham (Essex) train station doesn't just facilitate travel; it enhances it. With an eye on convenience and accessibility, this station ensures your journey is as pleasant and efficient as possible. As a traveler, you can focus on the excitement of the destination rather than the logistics, thanks to the thoughtful features and services offered here. Whether you're a daily commuter, a first-time visitor, or a seasoned traveler, the station stands ready to meet your needs—and perhaps surprise you with how straightforward and enjoyable rail travel can be.

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 Rainham (Essex)