Bradford to Cardiff train with Transport for Wales

Sat 29 Nov
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Northern Rail (3)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
1,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Northern Rail (3)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bradford to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for 30 Nov

Cheapest price

£66

Average price

£69

Fastest journey

5 h 7 m

Average duration

5 h 55 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

275 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bradford to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bradford to Cardiff will cost around £69 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £66.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Bradford for Cardiff every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 275 km distance in an average of 5 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 7 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 43 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

Transport for Wales
08:395h10
Bradford
13:49Cardiff
£661One-way
0 changes
Transport for Wales
09:256h31
Bradford
15:56Cardiff
£701One-way
0 changes
Transport for Wales
10:395h07
Bradford
15:46Cardiff
£701One-way
0 changes
Transport for Wales
08:136h43
Bradford
14:56Cardiff
£701One-way
0 changes
Transport for Wales
09:526h04
Bradford
15:56Cardiff
£711One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Bradford to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Bradford to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £18, and a train costs an average of £37.

Distance: 275 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

£71

Average Price

£33

Average Price

Cheapest

4h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 30m

Average total duration

7h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Bradford to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Bradford to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Sunday 30 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 23:44
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
transport_for_wales08:13 Bradford
6h43
14:56 Cardiff0 changesdirect
transport_for_wales08:39 Bradford
5h10
13:49 Cardiff0 changesdirect
transport_for_wales09:25 Bradford
6h31
15:56 Cardiff0 changesdirect
transport_for_wales09:52 Bradford
6h04
15:56 Cardiff0 changesdirect
transport_for_wales10:39 Bradford
5h07
15:46 Cardiff0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bradford to Cardiff by train or coach

Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sun
30 Nov
Mon
01 Dec
Tue
02 Dec
Wed
03 Dec
Thu
04 Dec
Fri
05 Dec
Sat
06 Dec

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bradford to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bradford to Cardiff run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £37 but you can travel from only £18 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 275 km distance in 5h 2m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £18
Distance
275 km
Average train duration
4h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
£37
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
5h 2m
First train
04:08
Last train
23:40
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £18

Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Northern Rail (3) from Bradford to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Northern Rail (3) trains will get you between Bradford and Cardiff from £18. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
£37
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 2m
Cheapest Price
£71
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Northern Rail (3)

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
£97
Northern Rail (3) frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

FAQs: Bradford to Cardiff train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bradford to Cardiff by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Two to three days are ideal to explore Cardiff's main attractions, including Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff, and the revitalised Cardiff Bay area.
A day trip from Bradford to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 2m each way. Trains run 4 times per day, covering a distance of 275 km.
The cost of a train ticket from Bradford to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £37, while the average price tends to be around £71.
In Cardiff, you can enjoy performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city centre, take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay, and have an adventurous day at Cardiff International White Water. Visit Cardiff Market for shopping and dining, discover Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore Cardiff Bay's attractions, enjoy the National Museum Cardiff's collections, and relax in Bute Park.
The train journey from Bradford to Cardiff offers varied scenery, passing through the picturesque Pennines and the lush landscapes of the Midlands, providing travellers with a mix of urban and rural views along the way.
Booking trains from Bradford to Cardiff in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cheapest way to get from Bradford to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £18.
The train journey from Bradford to Cardiff covers a distance of 275 km and takes approximately 5h 2m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Bradford to Cardiff is 275 km.
The train station in Bradford that goes to Cardiff is Bradford Interchange (BDI), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The last train from Bradford to Cardiff departs at 23:40.
The first train from Bradford to Cardiff leaves at 4:08.
There is no night train service from Bradford to Cardiff.
Trains from Bradford to Cardiff run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bradford to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Bradford to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bradford to Cardiff.
To get from Bradford to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Bradford and Cardiff

Bradford
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Bradford is Bradford Forster Square. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bradford Forster Square for your trip from Bradford to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Saturday 06:10 - 19:00 Friday 06:10 - 20:00 Sunday 08:45 - 18:00
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category A Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station Scooter Friendly Station - There is level access to all the platforms and ramps are available. Lift available 06:00 - 19:00 Monday to Saturday, 09:00 - 18:00 Sunday, however there is an alternative accessible route without having to use lift.
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key.
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Bradford Forster Square
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at station front on St Blaise Way adjacent to service bus stop (25702).
Amenities at train station
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:00 - 20:15 Sunday 08:00 - 20:15
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category A Station, Scooter Friendly Station - There is level access to all the platforms and a wheelchair is available if pre-booked via 0800 138 5560, or by asking for help at the Station Supervisors office next to platform 1. There are also escalators and lifts available from the bus station below up to the rail station. Please note that escalators and lifts are not operated by Northern or Network Rail.
  • Accessible public telephones: in the interchange
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Toilets and accessible toilets are available at the bus and coach Interchange next to the rail station.
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Bradford Interchange
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at parcels bay adjacent to Platform 1, through the red gate.
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category B station, Station is unstaffed. However no problems for disabled or wheelchair users as the access to the platforms is via the road and a ramp. Step free access from car park to platforms
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Frizinghall
  • Onward travel information: There is a bus stop close to the station. Busline 0871 200 2233
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport will pick up/drop off by the car park entrance on Frizinghall Road
  • Metro: 0113 245 7676

More options for your journey from Bradford to Cardiff

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Cardiff Bradford to Cardiff train

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