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Trains from Rainham (Essex) to
Cathays

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Rainham (Essex) to Cathays by train

Considering a train trip from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays? The journey typically lasts around 4hrs 2 mins and spans about 145 miles (233 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 Cathays Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cathays

Departure Station

Rainham (Essex)

Frequency

30trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 40 mins

Changes

3-5no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:05 / 00:17

Distance

145miles
(233 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£27.00

Travelling from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 4hrs 2 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 40 mins. With approximately 30 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 145 miles (233 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like GWR, c2c, Elizabeth Line, Transport for Wales 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 Cathays!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Rainham (Essex) and Cathays

Curious about your trip from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays? 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 Cathays by train?

The travel time between Rainham (Essex) and Cathays by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 2 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 40 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays is 3hrs 40 mins.

How much does the train from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays cost?

Train ticket prices from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays 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 Cathays?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Rainham (Essex) and Cathays 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 Cathays?

First class tickets on trains between Rainham (Essex) and Cathays 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 Cathays?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays 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 Cathays. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cathays, 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 Cathays?

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

What train companies run services from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays?

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

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Rainham (Essex) and Cathays?

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

When are Rainham (Essex) to Cathays Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Rainham (Essex) to Cathays 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)05:30 Cathays5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
8 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
21:54 Rainham (Essex)08:02 Cathays4 changesLondon Fenchurch Street
London Euston
Birmingham New Street
Cardiff Central
10 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
23:53 Rainham (Essex)08:32 Cathays3 changesLondon Fenchurch Street
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
8 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Rainham (Essex) to Cathays 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 Cathays 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 Cathays 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 Cathays 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 Cathays Station

Exploring Cathays Train Station: A Gateway in Cardiff

Positioned within the dynamic city of Cardiff, Cathays station serves as a pivotal gateway for local commuters and travelers. Its strategic location near Cardiff University makes it an essential hub for students and visitors alike. As part of the wider UK rail network, Cathays provides efficient services that connect you effortlessly to an array of destinations within and beyond Wales. Whether you're catching a train to Cardiff Central for a city-center adventure or heading out to scenic Barry Island, Cathays station is your dependable departure point.

Facilities and Services at Cathays Station

At Cathays, convenience is a priority. The station offers a ticket office open during weekdays from 06:30 to 19:30. On Saturdays, hours are reduced, yet adequate for a casual weekend jaunt. Automated ticket machines ensure ease of access outside these hours, and with the ability to collect tickets purchased online, your journey begins with minimal fuss. For those concerned with accessibility, the platform configuration may pose challenges with the absence of step-free access across platforms. However, helpful station staff and facilities like induction loops and customer help points are in place to ensure assistance is readily available. CCTV coverage adds an extra layer of security for all travelers.

Travel Connections Beyond the Tracks

Navigating beyond the rails is easy at Cathays. The rail replacement bus stop and regular local buses are conveniently located on Park Place, making it simple to plan an onward journey. Though Cathays does not provide ongoing taxi or cycle hire services directly, Cardiff's robust network of public transport ensures you're never far from your next connection.

Ticketing, Shopping, and Comfort at the Station

While the station facilitates efficient ticketing, it misses amenities like shopping outlets, refreshment stands, and public Wi-Fi. Planning ahead by grabbing refreshments prior to arrival could be essential. For cyclists, safe bicycle storage with CCTV ensures your bicycles remain secure during extended visits. Though amenities such as a waiting room are lacking, available seating areas ensure a comfortable stopover.

Popular Routes from Cathays Station

Cathays is your starting point for an array of adventures. Why not explore Barry’s picturesque seaside or immerse yourself in Swansea’s vibrant culture? For those interested in urban exploration, a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street offers central city excitement. Here are a few key routes to consider: take the scenic journey from Cathays to Barry Island or revel in the academic and cultural offerings just a train ride away, such as from Cathays to Cardiff Central.

Wrapping Up Your Journey from Cathays

Cathays train station is more than just a stop—it's the beginning of a journey, connecting you not only to Cardiff's rich offerings but also to broader locations across the UK. While it may lack some comforts, its strategic placement and robust connections ensure an efficient travel experience. Next time you're planning to venture from Cardiff, consider joining the many passengers who choose Cathays as their travel companion. Grab your tickets with ease, embark on an adventure, and explore the myriad of possibilities this charming station opens up.

With a plethora of destinations at your fingertips and the convenience of ticket purchases and travel updates at your disposal, Cathays station stands as a testament to efficient rail travel in the UK. Remember, wherever your journey takes you next, a smooth start begins with planning and an open mind. Happy travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Rainham (Essex)