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Trains from Swanley to
Cardiff Bay

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Swanley to Cardiff Bay by train

Considering a train trip from Swanley to Cardiff Bay? The journey typically lasts around 4hrs 16 mins and spans about 143 miles (231 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 £29.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Swanley to Cardiff Bay Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Bay

Departure Station

Swanley

Frequency

30trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 48 mins

Changes

4-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:35 / 00:21

Distance

143miles
(231 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£29.00

Travelling from Swanley to Cardiff Bay by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 4hrs 16 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 48 mins. With approximately 30 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 143 miles (231 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like GWR, Transport for Wales, Southeastern 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 Bay!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Swanley and Cardiff Bay

Curious about your trip from Swanley to Cardiff Bay? 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 Swanley and Cardiff Bay by train?

The travel time between Swanley and Cardiff Bay by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 16 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 48 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Swanley and Cardiff Bay by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Swanley to Cardiff Bay is 3hrs 48 mins.

How much does the train from Swanley to Cardiff Bay cost?

Train ticket prices from Swanley to Cardiff Bay 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 Swanley and Cardiff Bay?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Swanley and Cardiff Bay 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 04:35, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:21.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Swanley and Cardiff Bay?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Swanley and Cardiff Bay?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Swanley to Cardiff Bay by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Swanley and Cardiff Bay. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Bay, 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 Swanley to Cardiff Bay?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Swanley & Cardiff Bay. However, there are 30 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Swanley to Cardiff Bay?

GWR, Transport for Wales and Southeastern are the main train operating companies running services between Swanley and Cardiff Bay.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Swanley and Cardiff Bay?

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

When are Swanley to Cardiff Bay Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Swanley to Cardiff Bay on Monday 4th August 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 4th August
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
13:48 Swanley17:36 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Bridge
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
3 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
14:05 Swanley18:06 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
4 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
14:49 Swanley18:36 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
3 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
15:05 Swanley19:06 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
4 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
15:49 Swanley19:36 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
3 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
16:05 Swanley20:06 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
4 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
16:49 Swanley20:54 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
4 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
17:19 Swanley21:06 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
3 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
17:49 Swanley21:24 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
3 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
18:05 Swanley22:06 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
4 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
19:05 Swanley23:24 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
4 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
20:49 Swanley06:36 Cardiff Bay4 changesLondon Victoria
London Paddington
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
9 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Swanley to Cardiff Bay 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 Swanley to Cardiff Bay 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 Swanley to Cardiff Bay start from £107.30 one way, or £108.30 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 Swanley to Cardiff Bay are available for £86.40 one way, or £107.40 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 Swanley Station

Discover Swanley Train Station: Your Gateway to Adventure

Looking for a convenient and accessible station that connects you to bustling London and beyond? Look no further than Swanley Train Station. Located in the quaint town of Swanley, this station serves as a commute hub for many while offering a gateway to numerous exciting destinations. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first rail journey, the station's amenities and connections have something for everyone.

Facilities and Services at Swanley Station

Swanley Train Station offers a range of facilities to make your journey as smooth and hassle-free as possible. The ticket office is open throughout the week, equipped with ticket machines including options for online purchases. Accessibility is a priority, with step-free access available via the main entrance from Station Approach Road and lifts to all platforms. It is worth noting that step-free access is limited on the Everest Place side, but provisions such as a ramp for train access and accessible toilets are in place to help those with mobility challenges.

If you require assistance, staff are on hand across the week from early mornings to late evening. The station holds a Secure Station accreditation, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all passengers. For additional comfort, seating areas are available even though there are no waiting rooms. Meanwhile, refreshment kiosks and smartcard services ensure you have all you need for your travel.

Onward Travel Options

Not only does Swanley Station offer reliable rail services, it also connects you seamlessly to a variety of onward travel options. You can find extensive bus information to plan your onward journey, available in a printable format here. In the event of rail service disruptions, the rail replacement services are conveniently located in the main car park outside the booking hall.

Explore Popular Routes

Ready to explore the vibrant city life or nearby towns? Trains from Swanley make it easy to visit London, connecting you to major city destinations such as London Victoria, London Bridge, and the iconic London Charing Cross. The journey options don’t stop there; consider heading to rustic and historical towns like Rochester and Sevenoaks.

Swanley also offers direct trains to Maidstone East and Chatham, making it ideal for both leisure trips and regular commutes. With such amazing places within easy reach, Swanley Train Station truly serves as your launchpad to adventure.

Final Thoughts

For a stress-free, convenient, and cost-effective travel experience, Swanley Train Station has everything you need. Whether you're commuting to the heart of London or planning an escape to the serene countryside, this station is the ideal starting point. Don't miss out – book your tickets today and let Swanley Train Station propel you on a memorable journey.

Enjoy your travels and safe journey!

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Bay Station

Explore Cardiff Bay Train Station: Your Gateway to Adventure

Looking to explore the beautiful Cardiff Bay area or need a convenient station for your daily commute? Cardiff Bay Train Station is a hub poised to cater to every traveler, whether you're visiting for leisure or business. Although a smaller station, it offers essential services to kickstart your journey with ease.

Facilities at Cardiff Bay Station

While Cardiff Bay Train Station may not boast extensive amenities, it does efficiently cover the key necessities for travelers. You won't find a ticket office but don’t fret! Ticket machines are there to facilitate collection of pre-purchased tickets, accept both cash and cards, and are accessible for all travelers, including those who use wheelchairs. Notably, the station provides step-free access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, maintaining its 'Category A' accessibility status.

For those curious about smart travel, Cardiff Bay does not issue smartcards, but validators are available for use. And should you need assistance, a help point is there, alongside departure and arrival screens, ensuring you’re kept in the loop about train statuses. Be sure to take advantage of the assistance service, which permits bookings up to two hours before your trip starts. Whenever needed, contacting the Transport for Wales Customer Relations team is a few clicks away.

Getting There and Away: Transport Connections

Effortlessly commute in and out of Cardiff Bay with the station’s array of transport links. A strategically placed rail replacement bus stop awaits on Bute Street, and bus services are conveniently available right outside the station. If you fancy cycling over public transport, Nextbike/Ovo bike sharing has you covered, with docking stations ready at Lloyd George Avenue for exploring the city on two wheels.

Travel Inspiration: Destinations from Cardiff Bay

Cardiff Bay is more than just a starting point; it’s a gateway to numerous popular destinations throughout Wales. Plan a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street for shopping or head towards Cardiff Central for further connections. Delight in a scenic ride to Barry Island, or join the cultural festivities in Swansea. Whether for work or pleasure, hopping on a train from Cardiff Bay will take you anywhere you need to go with ease.

Wrap Up Your Cardiff Journey

While it may not resemble the grand European stations with vast facilities, Cardiff Bay Train Station still holds its charm. Simple, efficient, and conveniently located, it stands ready to cater to your travel needs without hassle. So, plan your trip, grab your tickets, and let Cardiff Bay Train Station be your gateway to exploring the vibrant scenes and serene landscapes of Wales.

Need more detailed travel information or want to organize your tickets beforehand? Visit National Rail's official website for a seamless experience.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Swanley