- Must visit
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Main local museum covering Highland history, archaeology, Jacobite stories and natural heritage. A strong introduction to Inverness and the region.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Inverness
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 07 Oct
Cheapest price on 07 Oct
£359
Average ticket price on 07 Oct
£359
Fastest journey on 07 Oct
10 h 15 m
Average journey duration on 07 Oct
10 h 30 m
Trains on 07 Oct
4
Distance
670 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Inverness will cost around £359 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £359.
Fast trains
To travel from Cardiff to Inverness you need to make at least 2 changes.
Y14753+
L87282+
G3895311:5310h49Cardiff Central (CDF)22:42Inverness station (INV)£3591One-way2 changes- C14686+
C01372+G38975+
W8519110:5310h30Cardiff Central (CDF)21:23Inverness station (INV)£3591One-way3 changes - C14687+W85201+G38983+W3429212:5510h24Cardiff Central (CDF)23:19Inverness station (INV)£3591One-way3 changes
G80228+G38949+W342869:5310h15Cardiff Central (CDF)20:08Inverness station (INV)£3591One-way2 changes
- G80228+G38949+W342869:5310h15Cardiff Central (CDF)20:08Inverness station (INV)£3591One-way2 changes
- C14687+W85201+G38983+W3429212:5510h24Cardiff Central (CDF)23:19Inverness station (INV)£3591One-way3 changes
- C14686+C01372+G38975+W8519110:5310h30Cardiff Central (CDF)21:23Inverness station (INV)£3591One-way3 changes
- Y14753+L87282+G3895311:5310h49Cardiff Central (CDF)22:42Inverness station (INV)£3591One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Inverness run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £114 but you can travel from only £63 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 14:50. The fastest train covers the 670 km distance in 9h 7m.
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 £63
Distance 670 km |
Average train duration 9h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price £114 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 9h 7m |
First train 4:15 |
Last train 14:50 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 £63
Live departures
Cardiff to Inverness train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Inverness trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G80228+G38949+W34286 | 9:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 10h15 | 20:08 Inverness station (INV) | 2 changes | |
| C14686+C01372+G38975+W85191 | 10:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 10h30 | 21:23 Inverness station (INV) | 3 changes | |
| Y14753+L87282+G38953 | 11:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 10h49 | 22:42 Inverness station (INV) | 2 changes | |
| C14687+W34292+W85201+G38983 | 12:55 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 10h24 | 23:19 Inverness station (INV) | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Inverness trains with Omio?
London North Eastern Railway as well as Scotrail or Lumo offer trains services from Cardiff to Inverness.
Omio is the only official third party seller for London North Eastern Railway tickets.
Why book with Omio vs London North Eastern Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for London North Eastern Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail or Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Inverness.
- 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 London North Eastern Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Inverness.
Train companies: Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway, Lumo from Cardiff to Inverness trainsScotrail, London North Eastern Railway, Lumo trains will get you between Cardiff and Inverness from £63. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
9h 20m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£192
Scotrail frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
9h 7m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£114
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
9h 19m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£151
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Inverness
Things to do in Inverness
Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.
- Recommended
The Highlanders' Museum
Small military museum at Fort George with regimental collections, uniforms and medals. Best for visitors interested in Highland army history.
Highland Archive Centre
Community museum in a former church telling the story of Highland life through local artefacts, archives and changing displays near central Inverness.
- Must visit
Ness Islands
Tree-lined riverside walk linking islands, bridges and paths on the River Ness. Popular for gentle walks, views and a peaceful break near the centre.
- Recommended
Ness Walk
Attractive promenade along the River Ness with mature trees, historic buildings and access to the cathedral, theatre and city centre walks.
- Recommended
Muirtown Locks
Canal-side walking area south-west of the city where boats pass through locks. It offers easy waterside views and a different side of Inverness.
- Vegetarian
Scottish Porridge
Classic Highland porridge made with oats, water or milk, and salt. A staple breakfast in the Highlands, prized for warmth and simplicity.
- Gluten-free
Black Isle Smoked Salmon
Cured salmon from the nearby Black Isle, often lightly smoked. It showcases the region’s excellent fish and traditional smoking methods.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet and spice, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s most famous traditional dish.
MacGregor's Bar
Well-known traditional venue for haggis, pies and Scottish comfort food, with a lively, informal feel in the city centre.
The Mustard Seed
Popular modern bistro serving Scottish seafood, steaks and classics in a relaxed central setting by the River Ness.
Rocpool Restaurant
Stylish restaurant focused on local Highland produce, including venison, beef and seafood, with a smart but welcoming atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: accommodation can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are similar to other regional tourist cities.
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
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafés do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Inverness Airport -> Inverness Bus Station, Inverness
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses in Inverness. You can also buy mobile tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Inverness bus fares are currently capped at £2 single on included Highlands services. Check the operator before travel if you are using a non-Stagecoach or council-run route.
Best day trips from Inverness by train
The most popular day trips by train from Inverness are Aviemore, Nairn, Elgin, Keith and Carrbridge. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Inverness on Omio.
Day trip from Inverness to Aviemore by train
Why visit Aviemore for the day?
Aviemore is a Highland town in the Cairngorms National Park, known for mountain scenery and outdoor activities. Its modern resort character makes it a base for walking, cycling and winter snowsports.
How to get from Inverness to Aviemore by train?
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 22:40. The fastest train covers the 40 km distance in 33m.
Day trip from Inverness to Nairn by train
How to get from Inverness to Nairn by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:13, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 23 km distance in 18m.
Day trip from Inverness to Elgin by train
Why visit Elgin for the day?
Elgin is the historic centre of Moray, best known for the ruins of Elgin Cathedral and its links to Scotch whisky. Its compact centre, old stone buildings and nearby countryside give it a calm north-east Scottish character.
How to get from Inverness to Elgin by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 23:29. The fastest train covers the 56 km distance in 41m.
Day trip from Inverness to Keith by train
How to get from Inverness to Keith by train?
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 23:09. The fastest train covers the 76 km distance in 1h 3m.
Day trip from Inverness to Carrbridge by train
How to get from Inverness to Carrbridge by train?
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 22:48. The fastest train covers the 33 km distance in 36m.
FAQs: Cardiff to Inverness train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Inverness 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 Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Inverness can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £114, while the average price tends to be around £183.
The train journey from Cardiff to Inverness covers a distance of 670 km and takes approximately 9h 7m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Inverness is 670 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Inverness leaves at 4:15.
The last train from Cardiff to Inverness departs at 14:50.
Trains from Cardiff to Inverness run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Inverness.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Inverness.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Inverness.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Inverness is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Inverness station (INV).
Booking trains from Cardiff to Inverness 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 Inverness offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the beautiful landscapes of Wales and the Scottish Highlands, showcasing rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and charming towns.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Inverness.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Inverness
Most Cardiff to Inverness trains use the Cardiff Central to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Inverness 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 Inverness
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 Inverness station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Inverness arrive at Inverness. Inverness is from Inverness city centre.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), 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 Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3, 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.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Inverness
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Inverness and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Inverness
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