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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for 04 Dec
Cheapest price
£39
Average price
£55
Fastest journey
3 h 40 m
Average duration
3 h 46 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
240 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Cambridge will cost around £55 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £39.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cardiff for Cambridge every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 3 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 53 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.
04:075h01
Cardiff09:08Cambridge
£391One-way
0 changes
09:503h40
Cardiff13:30Cambridge
£471One-way
0 changes
08:493h41
Cardiff12:30Cambridge
£611One-way
0 changes
08:193h41
Cardiff12:00Cambridge
£621One-way
0 changes
10:183h53
Cardiff14:11Cambridge
£661One-way
0 changes
09:503h40
Cardiff13:30Cambridge
£471One-way
0 changes
08:493h41
Cardiff12:30Cambridge
£611One-way
0 changes
08:193h41
Cardiff12:00Cambridge
£621One-way
0 changes
07:373h53
Cardiff11:30Cambridge
£821One-way
0 changes
10:183h53
Cardiff14:11Cambridge
£661One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Cardiff to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 4m. 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 £12, and a train costs an average of £35.
Distance: 240 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£69 Average Price | £28 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 34m Average total duration Fastest 4h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 52m Average total duration 6h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg 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 Cambridge train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Cambridge trains for today, Wednesday 3 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 02:17
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
P08477+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ Y30276 | On time 08:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h42 | 12:00 Cambridge station (CBG) | 2 changes | |
| P08478+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Y30281 | On time 08:37 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h53 | 12:30 Cambridge station (CBG) | 2 changes | |
 C23366 · C23330 | On time 08:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h21 | 14:06 Cambridge station (CBG) | 1 change | |
| P08479+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Y30286 | On time 09:19 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h41 | 13:00 Cambridge station (CBG) | 2 changes | |
| C23399_C23661 · C01402 | On time 09:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h20 | 15:05 Cambridge station (CBG) | 1 change | |
| P08480+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Y30291 | On time 09:49 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h41 | 13:30 Cambridge station (CBG) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Cambridge by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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.
Thu
04 Dec
04 Dec
Fri
05 Dec
05 Dec
Sat
06 Dec
06 Dec
Sun
07 Dec
07 Dec
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08 Dec
08 Dec
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10 Dec
10 Dec
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Cambridge run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 240 km distance in 3h 37m.
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 £12
Distance 240 km |
Average train duration 4h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 37m |
First train 04:08 |
Last train 21:20 |
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 £12
Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, first_great_western from Cardiff to Cambridge trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Cambridge from £12. 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 37m
Cheapest Price
£35
Great Western Rail frequency
5 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 Duration
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
£135
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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 17m
Cheapest Price
£171
first_great_western frequency
25 a day
FAQs: Cardiff to Cambridge train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The train journey from Cardiff to Cambridge offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of the Welsh countryside, the Severn Estuary, and charming English villages, making parts of the trip quite picturesque.
Two to three days in Cambridge allows you to explore its historic university, enjoy punting on the River Cam, visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, and stroll around the city's beautiful gardens and colleges.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £69.
A day trip from Cardiff to Cambridge is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 37m. Trains run 6 times per day. The distance is 240 km.
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views of the colleges and bridges, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square for local produce and crafts, attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, or take a guided walking tour to discover the city's rich history. Some of the best sights include King's College Chapel, The Fitzwilliam Museum, The Backs, Trinity College, and the Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Cambridge in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Cambridge is by coach, costing approximately £12.
The train distance from Cardiff to Cambridge is 240 km.
The train journey from Cardiff to Cambridge covers a distance of 240 km and takes approximately 3h 37m. Trains run 6 per day.
The last train from Cardiff to Cambridge departs at 21:20.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Cambridge.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Cambridge is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Cambridge station (CBG).
The first train from Cardiff to Cambridge leaves at 4:08.
Trains from Cardiff to Cambridge run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Cambridge.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Cambridge.
To get from Cardiff to Cambridge, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Cambridge
Cardiff
Cambridge
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your trip from Cardiff to Cambridge.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Lost and Found Office
Bike Parking
Bike 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 B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do 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 Birchgrove
- Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibility
HotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- 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.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Bay
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeBike ParkingBike 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
The major train station for arrivals in Cambridge is Cambridge. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge for your journey to Cambridge from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMAccessibility
WCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:10 - 23:00 Saturday 05:10 - 23:00 Sunday 07:00 - 22:55
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The accessible toilets are on platform 4
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Platforms 1, 4 and 7
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle point is by the Car Park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cambridge
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses depart from the front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Station foyer
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Waiting rooms are available on each platform
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Adjacent station building.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878
Public transport options for Cambridge North
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From bus stop on station forecourt.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cambridge and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Cambridge
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