- Must visit
Museum of Making
Interactive museum in a restored mill exploring making, industry and design through hands-on galleries and working displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Derby
Showing times and prices for 11 Aug
Cheapest price
£36
Average price
£63
Fastest journey
2 h 45 m
Average duration
2 h 48 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Derby is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Derby will cost around £63 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £36.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cardiff for Derby every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 198 km distance in an average of 2 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 45 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 52 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.
11:452h45Cardiff14:30Derby£361One-way0 changes- 17:452h46Cardiff20:31Derby£431One-way0 changes
- 9:492h52Cardiff12:41Derby£1081One-way0 changes
- 11:452h45Cardiff14:30Derby£361One-way0 changes
- 17:452h46Cardiff20:31Derby£431One-way0 changes
- 9:492h52Cardiff12:41Derby£1081One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Derby
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Derby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 47m. 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 £16, and a train costs an average of £36.
Distance: 198 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£65 Average Price | £25 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 17m Average total duration Fastest 2h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 49m Average total duration 4h 19m 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 Derby train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Derby trains for today, Monday 10 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 11:31 Derby | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:45 Cardiff | 2h56 | 12:41 Derby | 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 Derby 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.
Tue
11 Aug
11 Aug
Wed
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13 Aug
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Fri
14 Aug
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Why should you book Cardiff to Derby trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Derby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Derby.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Derby.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Derby.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Derby.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Derby
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Derby run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £16 by coach.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 21:32. The fastest train covers the 198 km distance in 2h 45m.
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 £16
Distance 198 km |
Average train duration 2h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price £36 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 45m |
First train 5:14 |
Last train 21:32 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 £16
Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Derby trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Derby from £16. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 45m
Cheapest Price
£36
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest Price
£160
Cross Country frequency
7 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
£175
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
7 a day
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 6m
Cheapest Price
£130
Transport for Wales frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Derby
Things to do in Derby
Discover the best of Derby — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Derby trip today.
- Must visit
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
City museum and art gallery with collections on local history, archaeology, natural history and paintings by Joseph Wright.
- Recommended
QUAD
Independent contemporary art gallery in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter, showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Historic shopping and cultural quarter with independent businesses, heritage buildings and easy access to key city sights.
- Recommended
Derby Market Place
Revitalised city-centre square with water features, seating and event space, ideal for a pause between nearby attractions.
- Recommended
Markeaton Park
Large landscaped park with lakes, open lawns and riverside paths, popular for walks, picnics and seasonal events.
- Vegetarian
Derby Cob
A soft white bread roll unique to Derby, often filled with bacon, cheese or salad. It is a local bakery staple with a name strongly tied to the city.
- Gluten-free
Derbyshire Blue Cheese
A blue veined cow’s milk cheese traditionally made in Derbyshire. It is prized for its rich, mellow flavour and long connection to the county’s cheesemaking.
- Vegetarian
Derbyshire Oatcake
A crumbly, buttery oat biscuit from Derbyshire, traditionally baked on a griddle. It is a historic local bake often served with cheese or butter.
The Dining Room
Elegant modern British dining in a refined setting, known for carefully prepared tasting and seasonal menus in the city centre.
The Brunswick Inn
Well known Derby ale house and eatery serving British pub dishes, cobs and local beers in a characterful historic building.
Zest Restaurant
Smart yet relaxed restaurant serving Italian inspired dishes, steaks and seafood. Popular for polished service and central location.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is usual for good service. Round up or add £1-2 for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Ride
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.80
To the city centre
Derby Railway Station -> Derby Bus Station, Derby
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless payment is available across the Derby bus network, and adult fares may be capped for the day on participating services.
- Spectrum is the main multi-operator Derby day ticket, valid from 5am to midnight on most Arriva, trentbarton, Kinchbus, and Notts & Derby buses.
FAQs: Cardiff to Derby train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Derby 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 Derby, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Derby can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £65.
The train journey from Cardiff to Derby covers a distance of 198 km and takes approximately 2h 45m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Derby is 198 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Derby leaves at 5:14.
The last train from Cardiff to Derby departs at 21:32.
Trains from Cardiff to Derby run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Derby.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Derby. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
To get from Cardiff to Derby, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Derby.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Derby is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Derby station (DBY).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Derby is by coach, costing approximately £16.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Derby 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 Derby offers a mix of urban and countryside scenery, including views of the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Welsh and English countryside, particularly as the train passes through areas like the Brecon Beacons and along the River Severn.
A day trip from Cardiff to Derby is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 45m. Trains run 6 times per day for this 198 km journey.
For a well-rounded experience in Derby, two to three days are generally sufficient. This allows time to explore key attractions such as the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, the Derby Cathedral, and nearby Peak District for outdoor activities.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Derby.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Derby
Most Cardiff to Derby trains use the Cardiff Central to Derby station pair, with some services arriving at Spondon. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Derby 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 Derby
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.
Heath High LevelHeath High Level station, Heath Halt Road, Heath, Cardiff, CF23 5QT
City-centre transport
Getting to Heath High Level from Cardiff city centre
Heath High Level is 4 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPenarth - Coryton, Penarth - Caerphilly, Bridgend - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach · 4m · £0.90 · every ~13 min
Penarth - Coryton, Penarth - Caerphilly, Bridgend - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach · 8m · £2 · every ~13 min
Bus28, 29 · 23m · £2 · every ~6 min
Heath High Level train station facilities and services
Heath High Level has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Heath High Level.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heath High Level: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Heath High Level: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heath High Level: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. The station is not suitable for wheelchair or powered mobility scooter users. Platform 1 (to Rhymney) has a long, steep access ramp. Platform 2 (to Cardiff) is only accessible via 41 steps. Customers travelling from the Rhymney Valley are advised to alight at Cardiff Queen Street and return to Heath Low Level, 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.
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.
Which Derby station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Derby most often arrive at Derby. Some services arrive at Spondon, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Derby arrival station.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby from Derby city centre
Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · £2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Derby train station facilities and services
Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Derby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Derby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Derby.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Derby: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
SpondonSpondon station, Station Road, Spondon, Derbyshire, DE21 7RX
City-centre transport
Getting to Spondon from Derby city centre
Spondon is 4 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainMatlock - Cleethorpes, Matlock - Lincoln Central, Matlock - Nottingham, Derby - Nottingham, Crewe - Lincoln Central, Matlock - Market Rasen, Ambergate - Lincoln Central, Derby - Lincoln Central, Ambergate - Cleethorpes · 4m · £2 · every ~2 min
Bus20 · 19m · £4 · every ~6 min
20 · 39m · £2 · every ~6 min
Spondon train station facilities and services
Spondon has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Spondon.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Spondon: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Spondon: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Spondon: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. This station has a degree of step free access to the platform which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check for details. Level ramped access to both platforms from level crossing. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on IUP, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Derby
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Derby and Cardiff
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