- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Town-centre museum with local history, archaeology and changing exhibitions in a Victorian villa beside Bournemouth's gardens.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 16 Oct
Cheapest price on 16 Oct
£72
Average ticket price on 16 Oct
£87
Fastest journey on 16 Oct
3 h 31 m
Average journey duration on 16 Oct
3 h 40 m
Trains on 16 Oct
4
Distance
124 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Bournemouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Bournemouth will cost around £87 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £72.
Fast trains
On Fri 16 Oct, we found 4 trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 124 km distance in an average of 3 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 31 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 3 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.
9:303h31Cardiff13:01Bournemouth£721One-way0 changes- 8:273h34Cardiff12:01Bournemouth£741One-way0 changes
- 11:303h31Cardiff15:01Bournemouth£751One-way0 changes
- 4:074h03Cardiff8:10Bournemouth£1281One-way0 changes
- 11:303h31Cardiff15:01Bournemouth£751One-way0 changes
- 9:303h31Cardiff13:01Bournemouth£721One-way0 changes
- 8:273h34Cardiff12:01Bournemouth£741One-way0 changes
- 4:074h03Cardiff8:10Bournemouth£1281One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Bournemouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £41 but you can travel from only £13 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 124 km distance in 2h 46m.
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 £13
Distance 124 km |
Average train duration 3h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price £41 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 46m |
First train 5:07 |
Last train 21:20 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £13
Live departures
Cardiff to Bournemouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bournemouth trains for tomorrow, Friday 16 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:07 Cardiff | 4h03 | 8:10 Bournemouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:27 Cardiff | 3h34 | 12:01 Bournemouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:30 Cardiff | 3h31 | 13:01 Bournemouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:30 Cardiff | 3h31 | 15:01 Bournemouth | 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 Bournemouth trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or South Western Railway offer trains services from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Cardiff to Bournemouth trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Bournemouth from £13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 46m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£41
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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
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 56m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£64
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
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£64
South Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Bournemouth
Things to do in Bournemouth
Discover the best of Bournemouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bournemouth trip today.
- Recommended
Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
Small local museum on Hengistbury Head covering archaeology, wildlife and the headland's long human history in a scenic coastal setting.
The Gallery at The Library
Free gallery inside Bournemouth Library showing contemporary art exhibitions, talks and touring displays in a central location.
- Must visit
Bournemouth Beach
Historic pier and broad sandy beach at the town's heart, ideal for classic seaside walks, swimming and views along the bay.
- Must visit
Lower Gardens
Landscaped Victorian gardens running through the centre, popular for gentle walks, seasonal events and a green route to the seafront.
- Must visit
Hengistbury Head
Headland nature reserve with walking trails, harbour views, heathland and archaeology, popular for longer coastal walks and birdwatching.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Crab
Fresh crab landed on the Dorset coast, prized for sweet meat and often served simply dressed to showcase local seafood traditions.
- Gluten-free
Lyme Bay Scallops
Hand-dived scallops from nearby Lyme Bay, a South Coast speciality valued for freshness and the region’s strong shellfish heritage.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Blue Vinny
Traditional Dorset Blue Vinny cheese with a firm, crumbly texture and robust flavour, long associated with Dorset farming and cheesemaking.
The Dining Room at The Nici
Refined dining room in a historic hotel, serving modern British cooking in an elegant setting overlooking the gardens.
WestBeach
Established seafood spot on West Cliff, popular for fish dishes, sea views and a smart but approachable atmosphere.
The Lych Gate Tavern
Traditional pub near the town centre serving local ales and classic British meals in a historic, characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside resort. Hotels rise in summer, but dining and local buses are usually cheaper than in London or Bath.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafés.
Morebus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city centre
Bournemouth Railway Station -> Bournemouth Town Centre (The Square)
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
Best option: Morebus service to Bournemouth Town Centre
- Price
- £3.00
- Duration
- 10 min
- Use the Morebus app or tap on with the same contactless card to get Zone A Dayrider pricing. Paper Dayrider tickets cost more.
- Bournemouth’s main urban buses are operated by Morebus. Bournemouth Railway Station is about a 10-minute walk or short bus ride from The Square.
Best day trips from Bournemouth by train
The most popular day trips by train from Bournemouth are London, Southampton, Winchester, Portsmouth and Salisbury. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Bournemouth on Omio.
Day trip from Bournemouth to London by train
Why visit London for the day?
London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.
How to get from Bournemouth to London by train?
There are 29 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 151 km distance in 1h 43m.
Day trip from Bournemouth to Southampton by train
Why visit Southampton for the day?
Southampton is a maritime city on England’s south coast, known for its ocean liner history and links to the Titanic. Medieval walls and museums stand near a busy waterfront and modern shopping centre, giving it a lively yet practical feel.
How to get from Bournemouth to Southampton by train?
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 26m.
Day trip from Bournemouth to Winchester by train
Why visit Winchester for the day?
Winchester is a historic Hampshire city known for its cathedral, medieval streets and links to King Alfred the Great. Once an Anglo-Saxon capital, it feels compact, walkable and quietly elegant.
How to get from Bournemouth to Winchester by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 45m.
Day trip from Bournemouth to Portsmouth by train
Why visit Portsmouth for the day?
Portsmouth is a waterfront city on England’s south coast, known for its naval heritage and historic dockyard. Its island setting, working harbour and seafront give it a distinctly maritime character, with Old Portsmouth adding older streets and pubs.
How to get from Bournemouth to Portsmouth by train?
The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 56 km distance in 1h 11m.
Day trip from Bournemouth to Salisbury by train
Why visit Salisbury for the day?
Salisbury is best known for its magnificent cathedral and its well-preserved medieval centre. The city feels compact and traditional, with historic streets, a lively market square and easy links to nearby Stonehenge.
How to get from Bournemouth to Salisbury by train?
The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 23:16. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 57m.
FAQs: Cardiff to Bournemouth train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £41, while the average price tends to be around £87.
The train journey from Cardiff to Bournemouth covers a distance of 124 km and takes approximately 2h 46m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Bournemouth is 124 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Bournemouth leaves at 5:07.
The last train from Cardiff to Bournemouth departs at 21:20.
Trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Bournemouth is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Bournemouth station (BMH).
Booking trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth 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 to Bournemouth offers a pleasant mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the River Severn, rolling hills, and coastal scenery as you approach Bournemouth.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Bournemouth.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Bournemouth
Most Cardiff to Bournemouth trains use the Cardiff Central to Bournemouth station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth
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.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · £2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which Bournemouth station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Bournemouth arrive at Bournemouth. Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre.
BournemouthBournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth from Bournemouth city centre
Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · £2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · £2 · every ~74 min
Bournemouth train station facilities and services
Bournemouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bournemouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bournemouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bournemouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bournemouth: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bournemouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bournemouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. Level access to both sides of station from separate entrances. Long and steep ramped subway between platforms - up to 1:8 gradient Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Bournemouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bournemouth and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Bournemouth
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