Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) train with CrossCountry

Fri 18 Sept
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CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
West Midlands Trains
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
West Midlands Trains
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC)

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept

Cheapest price on 18 Sept

£65

Average ticket price on 18 Sept

£108

Fastest journey on 18 Sept

3 h 5 m

Average journey duration on 18 Sept

3 h 22 m

Trains on 18 Sept

6

Distance

177 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) will cost around £108 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £65.

Fast trains

To travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) you need to make at least one change.

  • Great Western RailwayG15046+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+West Midlands TrainsY80886
    12:183h19
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    15:37Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    £651One-way
    2 changes
  • Great Western RailwayG15045+CrossCountryG00865+West Midlands TrainsY80883
    11:183h46
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    15:04Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    £1061One-way
    2 changes
  • CrossCountryG00900+Avanti West CoastW33972
    11:453h31
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    15:16Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    £1061One-way
    1 change
  • Great Western RailwayG15045+CrossCountryG00865+West Midlands TrainsY80883 · C18016
    11:183h30
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    14:48Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    £1061One-way
    3 changes
  • Great Western RailwayW35182+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34103
    11:503h24
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    15:14Milton Keynes Central (MKC)
    £1311One-way
    2 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £27 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £27, while a train costs an average of £87.

Distance: 177 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Driving

£87

Average Price

£27

Average Price

Cheapest

£35

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 40m

Average total duration

5h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 3m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) is a coach with an average price of £27.

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC):

A coach is £59 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) costing on average £87.

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) is by train with an average journey time of 3h 14m.

Other travel options to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) take longer:

Coach takes on average 5h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Milton Keynes Central (MKC) including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around £87 compared to roughly £35 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-51.21. The journey takes 3h 14m versus 3h 3m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Great Western Railway8:38 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h29
12:07 Milton Keynes Central (MKC)0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) 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.

Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept

Why should you book Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway and more offer trains services from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £46 but you can travel from only £20 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:53, the last at 13:20. The fastest train covers the 177 km distance in 2h 38m.

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 £20
Distance
177 km
Average train duration
3h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
£46
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
2h 38m
First train
4:53
Last train
13:20
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Thu
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 £20

Train companies: CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) trainsCrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Milton Keynes Central (MKC) from £20. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 38m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£46
CrossCountry frequency
3 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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£97
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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 Transport for Wales Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£67
Transport for Wales frequency
1 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

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£49
Great Western Railway frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

FAQs: Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) 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 Milton Keynes Central (MKC), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £46, while the average price tends to be around £87.
The train journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) covers a distance of 177 km and takes approximately 2h 38m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) is 177 km.
The first train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) leaves at 4:53.
The last train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) departs at 13:20.
Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) run approximately 9 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).
To get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC), you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) is by coach, costing approximately £20.
Booking trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cardiff Central to Milton Keynes Central offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque landscapes of South Wales and the English countryside, though it's not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
A day trip from Cardiff Central to Milton Keynes Central is not feasible, as the journey duration is 2h 38m. Trains operate 8 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC).

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff Central (CDF) and Milton Keynes Central (MKC)

Most Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) trains use the Cardiff Central to Milton Keynes Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff Central (CDF) and Milton Keynes Central (MKC) train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Milton Keynes
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre

Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · £2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Central train station facilities and services

Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.

More options for your journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC)

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

Most popular trains to and from Milton Keynes Central (MKC) and Cardiff Central (CDF)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomCardiff Central (CDF) to Milton Keynes Central (MKC) train

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