- Recommended
Deva Roman Experience
Interactive museum exploring Roman Chester with artefacts, reconstructions and family-friendly displays that bring Deva’s military past to life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Chester
Showing times and prices for 24 Aug
Cheapest price
£44
Average price
£61
Fastest journey
2 h 57 m
Average duration
3 h 1 m
Trains per day
20
Distance
191 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Chester will cost around £61 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £44.
Fast trains
Of the 20 trains that leave Cardiff for Chester every day 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 191 km distance in an average of 3 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 57 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 2 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.
G38950+
W342569:533h13Cardiff Central (CDF)13:06Chester station (CTR)£441One-way1 change- G38957+W3427615:513h15Cardiff Central (CDF)19:06Chester station (CTR)£441One-way1 change
- G38991+W3390614:503h16Cardiff Central (CDF)18:06Chester station (CTR)£441One-way1 change
- G38955+W3392813:533h12Cardiff Central (CDF)17:05Chester station (CTR)£441One-way1 change
- G38983+W3421112:553h12Cardiff Central (CDF)16:07Chester station (CTR)£441One-way1 change
- G390279:232h57Cardiff Central (CDF)12:20Chester station (CTR)£611One-way0 changes
- G3903513:233h01Cardiff Central (CDF)16:24Chester station (CTR)£611One-way0 changes
- G3903211:233h02Cardiff Central (CDF)14:25Chester station (CTR)£671One-way0 changes
- V116805:193h02Cardiff Central (CDF)8:21Chester station (CTR)£501One-way0 changes
- G3903715:233h02Cardiff Central (CDF)18:25Chester station (CTR)£561One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Chester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Chester 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 3h 10m. 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 £24.
Distance: 191 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£46 Average Price | £18 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 6m Average total duration 4h 36m 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 Chester train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Chester trains for today, Sunday 23 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G38941 · G38365 | On time 8:42 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h14 | 11:56 Chester station (CTR) | 1 change | |
| G38965 · V29880 | On time 9:39 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h22 | 13:01 Chester station (CTR) | 1 change | |
| G39025 | On time 11:14 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h54 | 14:08 Chester station (CTR) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G38973 · G38426 | On time 11:48 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h39 | 15:27 Chester station (CTR) | 1 change | |
| G38973+W33122 | On time 11:48 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h18 | 15:06 Chester station (CTR) | 1 change | |
| G38978+W33298 | On time 12:52 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h14 | 16:06 Chester station (CTR) | 1 change | |
| Monday 24 August | |||||
| V11680 | 5:19 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h02 | 8:21 Chester station (CTR) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y62730 · G38352 | 5:48 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h33 | 9:21 Chester station (CTR) | 1 change | |
W34144 · C01304+ W35160+ G66987 | 5:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h14 | 10:07 Chester station (CTR) | 3 changes | |
| G38945+C01304 | 6:46 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h21 | 10:07 Chester station (CTR) | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Chester 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.
Mon
24 Aug
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25 Aug
25 Aug
Wed
26 Aug
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Thu
27 Aug
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Why should you book Cardiff to Chester trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Chester.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Chester.
- 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 Chester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Chester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Chester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Chester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Chester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:31, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 191 km distance in 2h 56m.
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 191 km |
Average train duration 3h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price £24 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 56m |
First train 3:31 |
Last train 23:00 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 4 days |
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: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Cardiff to Chester trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Chester from £12. 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 Duration
2h 56m
Cheapest Price
£24
Transport for Wales frequency
7 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
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
3h 59m
Cheapest Price
£96
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
Complete guide to Chester
Things to do in Chester
Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.
- Recommended
Cheshire Military Museum
Museum in a former mill on the River Dee, covering Chester’s social history, period rooms and local stories from Roman times onward.
- Recommended
Dewa Roman Experience
Museum inside Chester Castle tracing regional regiments through uniforms, medals and campaigns in a compact but informative setting.
- Must visit
Chester Rows
Chester’s two-level covered walkways lined with historic shopfronts, ideal for browsing architecture and experiencing the city’s character.
- Recommended
The Groves
Pleasant riverside promenade beside the Dee, popular for walks, boat views and access to bridges, green spaces and the old city centre.
- Recommended
Grosvenor Park
Victorian park near the river with broad lawns, mature trees, bandstand and a peaceful setting for a break from the busy city centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A crumbly local cheese from Cheshire, often served on bread or in recipes. It is one of England’s oldest recorded cheeses and closely tied to the county.
- Vegetarian
Cheshire Fruit Loaf
A traditional fruit loaf linked with nearby Cheshire and the North West, made with dried fruit and spice, often sliced and buttered for tea.
Steak And Kidney Pudding
A historic English pudding of suet pastry filled with meat and onion. It is a hearty regional comfort dish long found in Cheshire pubs and homes.
Upstairs At The Grill
Elegant restaurant focused on modern British cooking and tasting menus. A refined choice for a special meal in central Chester.
Jaunty Goat Coffee
Long-established local favourite for hearty breakfasts, lunches and baked goods. Relaxed café atmosphere in the centre of Chester.
Opera Grill
Well-known riverside and city-centre restaurant serving modern British food with steaks, grills and cocktails in a stylish but relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but tourist areas can feel pricey. Buses are reasonable, while central stays cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- /u00a32.00
- Day pass
- £2.50
To the city centre
Chester Railway Station -> Chester Bus Interchange, Chester
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Park & Ride tickets can be bought from the driver with cash or contactless card, and are also available in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Chester station has a RailLink bus from directly outside the station to the city centre. Park & Ride buses serve Chester Bus Interchange and Foregate Street.
FAQs: Cardiff to Chester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £46.
The train journey from Cardiff to Chester covers a distance of 191 km and takes approximately 2h 56m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Chester is 191 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Chester leaves at 3:31.
The last train from Cardiff to Chester departs at 23:00.
Trains from Cardiff to Chester run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Chester.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Chester. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales.
To get from Cardiff to Chester, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Chester.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Chester is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Chester station (CTR).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Chester is by coach, costing approximately £12.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Chester 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 Chester offers picturesque views, particularly as it passes through the rolling hills and countryside of Wales, providing a scenic experience for travellers.
A day trip from Cardiff to Chester is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 56m. Trains run 7 times per day. The distance is 191 km.
In Chester, you can visit Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, or explore the Grosvenor Museum for local history and art. Enjoy a walk or boat trip along the River Dee, or experience cultural offerings at Storyhouse. The Cheshire Military Museum provides insights into military history. Don't miss the stunning Chester Cathedral, the historical Chester Roman Amphitheatre, and the well-preserved Chester City Walls for panoramic views. The Eastgate Clock and The Rows offer iconic sights and unique shopping experiences.
A stay of two to three days in Chester is typically sufficient to explore its historic sites, such as Chester Cathedral, the Roman walls, and the Rows, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Chester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Chester
Most Cardiff to Chester trains use the Cardiff Central to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Chester 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 Chester
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.
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 · £0.90 · 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.
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 Chester station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Chester arrive at Chester. Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · £4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, 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 Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Chester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chester and Cardiff
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