- Recommended
Cynon Valley Museum
Town museum in Cynon Valley Museum sharing Aberdare's industrial, social and sporting history through local collections and displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Aberdare
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 03 Nov
- Cheapest price on 03 Nov
- £6
- Average ticket price on 03 Nov
- £6
- Fastest journey on 03 Nov
- 1 h 5 m
- Average journey duration on 03 Nov
- 1 h 5 m
- Trains on 03 Nov
- 1
- Distance
- 32 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Aberdare is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Aberdare will cost around £6 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £6.
Fast trains
On Tue 03 Nov, we found 1 trains from Cardiff to Aberdare, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 32 km distance in an average of 1 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 5 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.
9:42 1h05 Cardiff 10:47 Aberdare £6 1 One-way 0 changes
9:42 1h05 Cardiff 10:47 Aberdare £6 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Aberdare
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Aberdare run on average 11 times per day, taking around 1h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:23, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 32 km distance in 57m.
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
Distance 32 km |
Average train duration 1h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 57m |
First train 5:23 |
Last train 23:15 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Aberdare trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Aberdare.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Aberdare can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £6.
The train journey from Cardiff to Aberdare covers a distance of 32 km and takes approximately 57m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Aberdare is 32 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Aberdare leaves at 5:23.
The last train from Cardiff to Aberdare departs at 23:15.
Trains from Cardiff to Aberdare run approximately 11 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Aberdare. The service operates 11 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
Live departures
Cardiff to Aberdare train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Aberdare trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 3 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:42 Cardiff | 1h05 | 10:47 Aberdare | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Aberdare trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales operates all trains services from Cardiff to Aberdare.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Aberdare.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Aberdare.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Aberdare.
Train companies: Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Aberdare trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Aberdare from £6. 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 Transport for Wales Duration
57m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£6
Transport for Wales frequency
11 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Aberdare
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Aberdare.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Aberdare.
Complete guide to Aberdare
Things to do in Aberdare
Discover the best of Aberdare — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Aberdare trip today.
Aberdare Library Gallery
Public art gallery and library venue in Aberdare Park with rotating exhibitions, local art and a fine nineteenth-century setting.
Hirwaun Village Museum
Museum rooms at Hirwaun history centre presenting local heritage, chapel life and the area's iron and coal communities.
- Recommended
Aberdare Park
Large Victorian public park with formal gardens, lake, bandstand and seasonal events, ideal for a relaxed walk near the centre.
- Recommended
Dare Valley Country Park
Country park of woodland, reservoir views and marked trails on the edge of town, popular for walking and outdoor recreation.
Canon Street
Main shopping and civic street through central Aberdare, useful for seeing the town's historic commercial frontage and daily life.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Cakes
Welsh cakes are griddled currant cakes spiced lightly and eaten warm with sugar. A beloved everyday Welsh treat found across the Valleys.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Cawl is a traditional Welsh broth of lamb or beef with leeks, potatoes and root vegetables. It is a classic comforting meal in South Wales.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
Glamorgan sausage is a Welsh meat-free sausage made with Caerphilly cheese, leeks and breadcrumbs. It is one of Wales’s best known regional specialities.
The Pickled Peppercorn
Friendly café in Aberdare town centre known for breakfasts, lunches and homemade bakes in a relaxed, casual setting.
Jharna Indian Restaurant
Popular local Indian restaurant offering curries, tandoori dishes and attentive service in a smart but welcoming setting.
The Bute Arms
Traditional pub and restaurant serving grills, classic British dishes and drinks in a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Budget-friendly by UK standards, with lower hotel, dining and local transport costs than larger tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-3.80 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafés do not require tips.
Plan your visit to Aberdare
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Aberdare.
The train journey from Cardiff to Aberdare offers scenic views of the Welsh valleys, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes, making it a pleasant and visually appealing trip.
FAQs: Cardiff to Aberdare train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Aberdare 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 Aberdare, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Aberdare in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Aberdare.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Aberdare
Most Cardiff to Aberdare trains use the Cardiff Central to Aberdare station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Aberdare 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 Aberdare
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
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.
FairwaterFairwater station, Pwllmelin Road, Fairwater, South Glamorgan, CF5 3QE
City-centre transport
Getting to Fairwater from Cardiff city centre
Fairwater is 4 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Central - Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil - Aberdare, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 9m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus62, 63, 64 · 28m · £4 · every ~8 min
101, 102 · 31m · £2 · every ~2 min
Fairwater train station facilities and services
Fairwater has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Fairwater.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Fairwater: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Fairwater: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Fairwater: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access is available to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) via a long moderately shallow ramp from Pwllmelin Road. Step free access is available to Platform 2 (to Radyr) via a long moderately shallow ramp from Fairwater Road. Both platforms are connected via a footbridge with steps, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: This machine does not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
City-centre transport
Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · £1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cathays train station facilities and services
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which Aberdare station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Aberdare arrive at Aberdare. Aberdare is 1 km from Aberdare city centre.
AberdareAberdare CF44 8EL, UK+44 333 321 1202
City-centre transport
Getting to Aberdare from Aberdare city centre
Bus89, 8, 11, 172, 9 · 11m · £2 · every ~10 min
Aberdare train station facilities and services
Aberdare has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Dining, ATM, Accessibility and WC.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Aberdare.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Aberdare. ATMs are available at Aberdare.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aberdare: WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aberdare.
Train stations for Cardiff to Aberdare
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Aberdare, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Aberdare is Cardiff Central, and it arrives at Aberdare.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Aberdare
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Aberdare and Cardiff
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