- Recommended
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum
A city-centre museum with Roman and social history displays, local artefacts and changing exhibitions that introduce Doncaster's past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Doncaster
Showing times and prices for 31 Jul
Cheapest price
£78
Average price
£78
Fastest journey
4 h 10 m
Average duration
4 h 10 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
266 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster will cost around £78 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £78.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cardiff for Doncaster every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 266 km distance in an average of 4 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 10 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 10 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.
9:454h10Cardiff13:55Doncaster£781One-way0 changes
- 9:454h10Cardiff13:55Doncaster£781One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Cardiff to Doncaster
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Doncaster among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 5m. 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 £21, and a train costs an average of £38.
Distance: 266 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
£107 Average Price | £36 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 35m Average total duration Fastest 4h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 11m Average total duration 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg 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 Doncaster train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Doncaster trains for tomorrow, Friday 31 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:45 Cardiff | 4h10 | 13:55 Doncaster | 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 Doncaster 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.
Fri
31 Jul
31 Jul
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01 Aug
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02 Aug
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03 Aug
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06 Aug
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Why should you book Cardiff to Doncaster trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Doncaster.
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 Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Doncaster.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Doncaster.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Doncaster
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Doncaster run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £38 but you can travel from only £21 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 20:21. The fastest train covers the 266 km distance in 4h 1m.
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 £21
Distance 266 km |
Average train duration 4h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £38 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 1m |
First train 4:15 |
Last train 20:21 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 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 £21
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Cardiff to Doncaster trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Doncaster from £21. 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
4h 1m
Cheapest Price
£38
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
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
4h 43m
Cheapest Price
£163
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 1m
Cheapest Price
£214
Cross Country frequency
8 a day
Complete guide to Doncaster
Things to do in Doncaster
Discover the best of Doncaster — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Doncaster trip today.
- Recommended
South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum
An aviation museum at the former RAF airfield, featuring military aircraft, cockpit displays and volunteers sharing local flying history.
Doncaster Railway Heritage Centre
A working heritage railway site with station exhibits, historic rolling stock and a compact museum atmosphere for rail enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Potteric Carr Nature Reserve
A large wildlife reserve of lakes, hides and paths, ideal for birdwatching, easy walks and a quiet break near the city.
- Recommended
Doncaster Market
A historic market district with covered halls, independent traders and a lively everyday atmosphere at the heart of Doncaster.
Sir Nigel Gresley Square
A broad civic square beside the markets and cultural venues, useful for events, people-watching and exploring the town centre.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Tea Loaf
A rich fruit loaf from nearby Yorkshire, packed with currants and peel. Traditionally served sliced with butter and closely associated with South Yorkshire tea tables.
Yorkshire Oatcake
A sturdy South Yorkshire oatcake cooked like a pancake and eaten with savoury fillings. It reflects the region’s long mining and working-class food traditions.
Bread Cake
A soft white bread cake from South Yorkshire, often filled with bacon, sausages or chips. It is a local staple and a familiar part of everyday eating in Doncaster.
Restaurant 1924
Refined British dining in a smart country-house setting at Bawtry Hall, with tasting menus and polished service.
Movida Tapas Restaurant
Stylish steakhouse and grill in central Doncaster, known for quality cuts, cocktails and a lively modern atmosphere.
La Boca
Popular tapas restaurant with a buzzy atmosphere, serving Spanish small plates and drinks in Doncaster town centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are often cheaper than in London, while local buses and everyday costs stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included, optional in cafés, and rounding up for taxis is common.
Travel South Yorkshire
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.30
To the city centre
Doncaster Station -> Doncaster Interchange, Doncaster
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Adult single bus fares in South Yorkshire are capped at £2.00 on participating services; check your operator before travel.
- Use the Travel South Yorkshire app for journey planning and live departures. Contactless payment availability varies by bus operator.
FAQs: Cardiff to Doncaster train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 Doncaster, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Doncaster can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £38, while the average price tends to be around £107.
The train journey from Cardiff to Doncaster covers a distance of 266 km and takes approximately 4h 1m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Doncaster is 266 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Doncaster leaves at 4:15.
The last train from Cardiff to Doncaster departs at 20:21.
Trains from Cardiff to Doncaster run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Doncaster.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Doncaster.
To get from Cardiff to Doncaster, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Doncaster.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Doncaster is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Doncaster station (DON).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Doncaster is by coach, costing approximately £21.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Doncaster 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 Doncaster offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Passengers can enjoy views of the Welsh countryside, passing towns, and glimpses of the Peak District as they approach Doncaster.
A day trip from Cardiff to Doncaster is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 1m. However, trains run 4 times per day. The distance is 266 km.
In Doncaster, you can explore Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, a beautifully preserved Victorian country house with stunning gardens. Enjoy birdwatching and walking trails at Potteric Carr Nature Reserve, or have fun at The Dome, a leisure complex with swimming pools and ice skating. Discover local history at Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery, or visit Boston Park Farm for family-friendly encounters with animals and a maize maze. For the best sights, visit Conisbrough Castle for panoramic views, Yorkshire Wildlife Park for exotic animals, and Doncaster Racecourse for major horse racing events. Explore Cusworth Hall with its museum and gardens, and learn about aviation at the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum.
A two to three-day visit in Doncaster is ideal to explore its main attractions, including the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster Racecourse, and the historic Mansion House.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Doncaster.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Doncaster
Most Cardiff to Doncaster trains use the Cardiff Central to Doncaster station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Doncaster 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 Doncaster
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 Doncaster station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Doncaster arrive at Doncaster. Doncaster is from Doncaster city centre.
DoncasterDoncaster station, Station Court, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN1 1PE
City-centre transport
Getting to Doncaster from Doncaster city centre
Bus399 · 3m · £4
384, 387, 388, 384A, 385A, 387A · 5m · every ~18 min
Doncaster train station facilities and services
Doncaster has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Doncaster.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Doncaster. ATMs are available at Doncaster.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Doncaster.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Doncaster: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Doncaster: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Doncaster: 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 public telephones: Phones are low level but not text, Accessible taxis: Advance booking not required, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: , 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 Doncaster
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Doncaster and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Doncaster
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