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Trains from Southend Central to
Cardiff Queen Street

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Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street by train

Considering a train trip from Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street? The journey typically lasts around 4hrs 23 mins and spans about 167 miles (268 kilometres). With approximately 27 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 £29.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Departure Station

Southend Central

Frequency

27trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 49 mins

Changes

3-5no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:34 / 00:45

Distance

167miles
(268 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£29.00

Travelling from Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 4hrs 23 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 49 mins. With approximately 27 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 167 miles (268 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like c2c, Transport for Wales, Elizabeth Line, GWR 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 £29.00, 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 Southend Central and Cardiff Queen Street

Curious about your trip from Southend Central 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 Southend Central and Cardiff Queen Street by train?

The travel time between Southend Central and Cardiff Queen Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 23 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 49 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street is 3hrs 49 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street can start from as little as £29.00 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 Southend Central and Cardiff Queen Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Southend Central and Cardiff Queen Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 27 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:34, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:45.

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

First class tickets on trains between Southend Central 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 Southend Central and Cardiff Queen Street?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Southend Central 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 Southend Central 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 Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Southend Central & Cardiff Queen Street. However, there are 27 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street?

c2c, Transport for Wales, Elizabeth Line and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Southend Central and Cardiff Queen Street.

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

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

When are Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street on Saturday 3rd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Saturday 3rd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
04:34 Southend Central08:51 Cardiff Queen Street3 changesLondon Fenchurch Street
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
05:48 Southend Central09:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
06:48 Southend Central10:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
07:48 Southend Central11:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
08:48 Southend Central12:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
09:48 Southend Central13:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
10:18 Southend Central14:30 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 12 mins Get Tickets
10:48 Southend Central14:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
11:48 Southend Central15:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
12:48 Southend Central16:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
13:48 Southend Central17:51 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
14:18 Southend Central18:21 Cardiff Queen Street5 changesWest Ham
Stratford (London)
Farringdon
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Southend Central 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 Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street start from as little as £29.00

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 Southend Central to Cardiff Queen Street start from £108.40 one way, or £109.40 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 Southend Central 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 Southend Central Station

Discover Southend Central Train Station

Welcome to Southend Central, a bustling train station serving the vibrant seaside town of Southend-on-Sea, Essex. From the scenic beachside views to the charming town center, Southend Central is your gateway to not only a refreshing day at the beach but also convenient journeys across the UK. This station is an essential hub for locals and visitors alike, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm.

Facilities and Amenities

At Southend Central, purchasing tickets is a breeze with a ticket office open Monday through Sunday and accessible ticket machines available for those on the move. Smartcard validators are on site, though smartcards aren't issued at the station, ensuring ease of access for all travelers. For any questions or concerns, the staff at the ticket office is ready to assist during broad hours throughout the week.

Accessibility is taken seriously at Southend Central. There are induction loops for the hard of hearing, ramps for train access, and CCTV for safety. While there is no waiting room, seating areas are dotted around the station. Accessible toilets are available on Platforms 3 and 4, along with baby-changing facilities.

Travel Connections

Southend Central is well-connected with varied onward travel options. If your journey requires a bus, catch the rail replacement services at Clifftown Road near The Last Public House. For air travel, Southend Airport is just a train ride away from nearby Southend Victoria station. While accessible taxis are not directly available at the station, you can find taxis in the nearby town centre, ensuring a smooth transition from rail to road.

Popular Destinations

Looking for inspiration on where to travel from Southend Central? Journey to the heart of the capital with a train from Southend Central to London Fenchurch Street. Explore nearby towns such as Benfleet, or head towards Barking for more urban adventures. If the sea breeze calls, the short train trip to Westcliff offers another perspective of the lovely coastline.

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For the Practical Traveler

Whether you’re a commuter or a casual traveler, Southend Central has your basic needs covered with shops, refreshment facilities, and ATM machines conveniently located. With a National Car Parks Ltd-operated car park that's open 24/7, travelers can park with peace of mind, although space for disabled parking is limited. Plus, bicycle storage facilities encourage eco-friendly travel.

Plan Your Journey

Southend Central station is more than just a stopping point; it’s your launchpad to explore the best of Southend-on-Sea and beyond. With excellent rail connectivity, extensive facilities, and customer-friendly services, Southend Central makes your journey smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or travel regularly to the capital, you'll find everything you need with a smile.

Ready to plan your trip? Purchase your tickets today and start your adventure from Southend Central, where convenience meets exploration.

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 Southend Central