1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Bedford
Showing times and prices for 30 Nov
Cheapest price
£66
Average price
£67
Fastest journey
3 h 34 m
Average duration
4 h 4 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
200 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Bedford will cost around £67 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £66.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Cardiff for Bedford every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 200 km distance in an average of 4 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 34 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 33 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.
09:204h33
Cardiff13:53Bedford
£661One-way
0 changes
11:203h34
Cardiff14:54Bedford
£681One-way
0 changes
11:203h34
Cardiff14:54Bedford
£681One-way
0 changes
09:204h33
Cardiff13:53Bedford
£661One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Bedford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Bedford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £35. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 8m. 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 £35, and a train costs an average of £61.
Distance: 200 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£73 Average Price | £43 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 38m Average total duration Fastest 3h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 41m Average total duration 5h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cardiff to Bedford train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bedford trains for tomorrow, Sunday 30 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 23:02
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:20 Cardiff | 4h33 | 13:53 Bedford | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:20 Cardiff | 3h34 | 14:54 Bedford | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Bedford 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
30 Nov
Mon
01 Dec
01 Dec
Tue
02 Dec
02 Dec
Wed
03 Dec
03 Dec
Thu
04 Dec
04 Dec
Fri
05 Dec
05 Dec
Sat
06 Dec
06 Dec
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Bedford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Bedford run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £61 but you can travel from only £35 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 200 km distance in 3h 34m.
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 £35
Distance 200 km |
Average train duration 3h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price £61 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 34m |
First train 02:15 |
Last train 21:30 |
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 £35
Train companies: Great Western Rail, first_great_western from Cardiff to Bedford trainsGreat Western Rail, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Bedford from £35. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Rail
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 Duration
3h 34m
Cheapest Price
£35
Great Western Rail 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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest Price
£184
first_great_western frequency
25 a day
FAQs: Cardiff to Bedford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Bedford 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 Bedford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
To fully explore Bedford's cultural sites, historical landmarks, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
A day trip from Cardiff to Bedford is not feasible due to the travel time of 3h 34m. Trains run 5 times per day.
The train journey from Cardiff to Bedford offers a mix of scenic views, including the rolling Welsh countryside, picturesque towns, and glimpses of the River Severn, providing an enjoyable visual experience for travellers.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Bedford is by coach, costing approximately £35.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Bedford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train distance from Cardiff to Bedford is 200 km.
The train journey from Cardiff to Bedford covers a distance of 200 km and takes approximately 3h 34m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Bedford is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Bedford station (BDM).
The last train from Cardiff to Bedford departs at 21:30.
The first train from Cardiff to Bedford leaves at 2:15.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Bedford.
Trains from Cardiff to Bedford run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Bedford.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Bedford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Bedford.
To get from Cardiff to Bedford, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Bedford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £61, while the average price tends to be around £73.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Bedford
Cardiff
Bedford
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cathays. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cathays for your trip from Cardiff to Bedford.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibility
WCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Public transport options for Fairwater
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the top of the ramp to the Cardiff bound platform on Fairwater Road
The major train station for arrivals in Bedford is Bedford. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bedford for your journey to Bedford from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 21:00 Saturday 05:45 - 21:00 Sunday 07:15 - 21:15
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is adjacent to the taxi rank at the front of the station.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting areas are available
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front right hand side and station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Parking
- Car Park: Bedford St Johns (Council Managed)
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Bedford St Johns
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from the Medbourne Road car park, by the path leading to the platform. Please check the direction of travel before boarding.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Bedford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bedford and Cardiff
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
