- Must visit
M Shed
Large harbourside museum covering Bristol’s people, industry and global links, with varied galleries and family-friendly displays.
Cheapest price
£20
Average price
£20
Fastest journey
46 m
Average duration
47 m
Trains per day
14
Distance
41 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Bristol is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Bristol will cost around £20 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £20.
Of the 14 trains that leave Cardiff for Bristol every day 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 41 km distance in an average of 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 46 m .
The slowest trains will take 47 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.
W35012
Y41674
C00852
Y41671
Y41668
C00852
C00850
W35012
W34991
W34979Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £4. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 1h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £4, and a train costs an average of £8.
Distance: 41 km
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
£20 Average Price | £6 Average Price Cheapest |
1h 58m Average total duration 1h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 42m Average total duration Fastest 1h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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.
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bristol trains for today, Saturday 22 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W35158 · C47779 | On time 5:14 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h26 | 6:40 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 change | |
W34965 | On time 6:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h48 | 7:18 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35165 · C47829 | On time 6:48 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h11 | 7:59 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 change | |
W35168+ G01129 | On time 7:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 8:08 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 change | |
C42254 | On time 7:27 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 8:17 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42436 | On time 7:58 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h53 | 8:51 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42256 | On time 8:27 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 9:17 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42437 | On time 9:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h53 | 9:53 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42258 | On time 9:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h47 | 10:17 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42438 | On time 10:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h52 | 10:52 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42259 | On time 10:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h48 | 11:18 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42440 | On time 10:58 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h52 | 11:50 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42261 | On time 11:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h48 | 12:18 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42441 | On time 12:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 12:51 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42262 | On time 12:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h48 | 13:18 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42442 | On time 13:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h52 | 13:52 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42264 | On time 13:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h48 | 14:18 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42443 | On time 14:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h53 | 14:53 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42266 | On time 14:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h49 | 15:19 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
W35191+ W29878 | On time 14:41 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h55 | 15:36 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 1 change | |
C42444 | On time 14:59 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 15:50 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42267 | On time 15:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h48 | 16:18 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42445 | On time 15:58 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h55 | 16:53 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42269 | On time 16:27 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 17:17 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42446 | On time 16:58 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h54 | 17:52 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42271 | On time 17:27 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 18:17 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
Y41685 | On time 17:58 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h52 | 18:50 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42273 | On time 18:27 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 19:17 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42447 | On time 19:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 19:50 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42275 | On time 19:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h47 | 20:17 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
Y41691 | On time 19:54 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h48 | 20:42 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42277 | On time 20:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h45 | 21:15 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42448 | On time 21:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 21:50 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
G66474 | On time 21:35 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h49 | 22:24 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
C42449 | On time 22:01 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 22:52 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
Y41875 | On time 22:47 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h56 | 23:43 Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cardiff to Bristol run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 but you can travel from only £4 by coach.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 45m.
Distance 41 km |
Average train duration 1h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 45m |
First train 0:30 |
Last train 23:49 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Bristol — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bristol trip today.
Large harbourside museum covering Bristol’s people, industry and global links, with varied galleries and family-friendly displays.
City museum and art gallery with natural history, archaeology, applied art and paintings in a grand central building.
Former passenger liner turned museum ship, where visitors explore restored decks and learn about transatlantic travel and engineering.
Lively floating harbour area with waterside walks, museums, boats and year-round city views, ideal for first-time visitors.
Elegant Georgian square with lawns and paths, useful as a calm stop between the old city, harbour and nearby cultural sights.
Colourful hillside neighbourhood famed for street art, independent character and broad views over the city from nearby green spaces.
A cider from apples grown in the surrounding West Country. Bristol’s long cider-trading history makes it a classic local drink to try in pubs and cider houses.
A rich cheese from Somerset, often eaten across Bristol in sandwiches, ploughman’s lunches and pub dishes. It is one of the region’s best-known traditional foods.
A traditional bun flavoured with dried fruit, spice and candied peel, linked to Bristol since the 18th century. It is a distinctive local teatime bake.
Long-running St Nicholas Market favourite serving pitta sandwiches packed with falafel, salad and sauces in a casual setting.
Elegant modern British dining in Clifton, with tasting menus and polished service in an intimate setting.
Lively harbourside restaurant known for excellent steaks, burgers and strong cocktails in a smart but relaxed room.
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, but more than many smaller cities. Buses are reasonable; central attractions and cafés can add up.
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafés: rounding up is enough. Taxis: round up or tip about 10% for good service.
Official public transport app
Bristol Temple Meads -> Bristol Bus & Coach Station
Travelling from Cardiff to Bristol is a breeze, with between 2 to 4 direct trains departing from Cardiff up until 1:00 p.m. All service arrive in less than an hour and trains include a variety of services including air conditioning and toilets
There are two train companies travelling between Cardiff and Bristol. Great Western Rail provides the majority of routes, with Crosscountry offering a limited amount of journeys throughout the day.
All trains running from Cardiff to Bristol are direct routes with no changes or layovers required. All services should arrive in Bristol between 48 and 52 minutes after departure.
The first train departing from Cardiff to Bristol leaves at 6:29 a.m. and the last departs at 13:00 p.m, with no evening routes available. Trains usually depart 4 time per hour up until the last departure time, however, passengers should note that several hours feature only 1 or 2 booking options.
Great Western Rail offers a variety of facilities including power outlets, Wifi, media, AC, toilets, luggage and bicycle space, and seat reservation. However, please note there are no refreshments services available. Crosscountry do offer a refreshment service and the majority of the same services, however, they do not offer Wifi or seat reservation.
Departure Station: Trains from Cardiff to Bristol depart from Cardiff central station and the station itself is located within the heart of the city and is easily accessible by taxi or bus.
Arrival Station: All trains from Cardiff to Bristol terminate in Bristol Temple Meads station. Buses depart regularly from outside the station. You can also take the scenic route and choose to take the river ferry to the city centre. The journey takes roughly 45 minutes and comes highly recommended as a way for newcomers to take in the sights of the city.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Bristol 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 Bristol, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cardiff to Bristol trains use the Cardiff Central to Bristol Temple Meads station pair, with some services arriving at Bristol, Airport. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Bristol train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
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 options are available at Cathays.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
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 options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Bristol Temple Meads 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, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.
Bristol, Airport is 11 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
Bristol, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Dexters, Brunel Bar & Kitchen
Free. ATMs are available in the airport terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Bristol, Airport. Information desks are located in the main terminal.
Luggage storage is available at Bristol, Airport. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bristol, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bristol, Airport: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport, Holiday Inn Bristol Airport, Winford Manor Hotel.
Montpelier is 1 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
Montpelier has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Montpelier.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Montpelier: Parking.
Available at Montpelier: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Montpelier: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to the platform, Accessible taxis: No, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need