- Must visit
Folkestone Artworks
An outdoor public art collection spread across the town, featuring permanent works by contemporary artists in everyday settings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Folkestone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £60
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £60
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 3 h 46 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 3 h 46 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 1
- Distance
- 307 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Folkestone will cost around £60 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £60.
Fast trains
On Mon 02 Nov, we found 1 trains from Cardiff to Folkestone, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 307 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 46 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 46 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.
11:13 3h46 Cardiff 14:59 Folkestone £60 1 One-way 0 changes
11:13 3h46 Cardiff 14:59 Folkestone £60 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Folkestone run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 but you can travel from only £17 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:38, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 307 km distance in 3h 0m.
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 £17
Distance 307 km |
Average train duration 3h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 0m |
First train 4:38 |
Last train 21:20 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 £17
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Folkestone trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Folkestone.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Folkestone can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £55.
The train journey from Cardiff to Folkestone covers a distance of 307 km and takes approximately 3h 0m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Folkestone is 307 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Folkestone leaves at 4:38.
The last train from Cardiff to Folkestone departs at 21:20.
Trains from Cardiff to Folkestone run approximately 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Folkestone.
Why should you book Cardiff to Folkestone trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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.
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Folkestone trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Folkestone from £17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
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 Great Western Railway Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£35
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Folkestone
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Folkestone.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Folkestone.
Complete guide to Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
A local history museum in the old town covering Folkestone's past, from seaside life to wartime and archaeology.
- Recommended
Folkestone Arts
A contemporary art venue in a former church, showing changing exhibitions by British and international artists.
- Must visit
The Leas
A broad clifftop promenade with sea views, gardens and major public artworks, ideal for a classic Folkestone walk.
- Must visit
Folkestone Harbour Arm
A revitalised waterfront pier and promenade popular for strolling, sea air, events and views across the harbour.
- Recommended
Creative Quarter
A creative quarter of lanes and workshops with independent shops, murals and regular cultural events in the old centre.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed from the Channel, usually simply grilled or pan-fried. It is a Kent coast classic prized for its sweet, delicate flesh.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Whitstable or Kent oysters are widely eaten along this coast, served raw with lemon. They reflect the long shellfish tradition of the Kent shoreline.
Kent Fish Stew
A rich fish stew from Kentish fishing communities, made with mixed local fish and shellfish in a savoury broth. It showcases the catch from nearby waters.
Marleys
Well-known bistro and wine bar in the old high street area, offering seasonal small plates and a cosy, contemporary setting.
Hatch
Popular independent café and brunch spot on the Harbour Arm, serving coffee, breakfasts and casual plates in a lively seaside atmosphere.
The Smokehouse
Long-established seafood smokehouse and deli near the harbour, known for smoked fish, shellfish and simple coastal meals.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: dining is manageable, but hotels in peak season can rise; local buses are reasonably priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares; cafés may use tip jars, but tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city centre
Folkestone Central -> Folkestone Town Centre
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Stagecoach runs Folkestone's local buses. Buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app before boarding for quicker travel.
- Folkestone Central is outside the core shopping area; allow about 10 min on foot to Bouverie Place and the town centre.
Plan your visit to Folkestone
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Folkestone.
The train journey from Cardiff to Folkestone offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the rolling countryside, picturesque towns, and occasional glimpses of the coast, providing a pleasant travel experience.
FAQs: Cardiff to Folkestone train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Folkestone in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Folkestone.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Folkestone
Most Cardiff to Folkestone trains use the Cardiff Central to Folkestone West station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Folkestone 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 Folkestone
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.
Which Folkestone station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Folkestone arrive at Folkestone West. Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · £1 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · £3 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. 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 details - Step Free access to Platform 1 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Train stations for Cardiff to Folkestone
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Folkestone, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Folkestone is Cardiff Central, and it arrives at Folkestone West.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Folkestone and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Folkestone
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