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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Inverness
Showing times and prices for 22 Nov
Cheapest price
£365
Average price
£371
Fastest journey
10 h 45 m
Average duration
10 h 56 m
Trains per day
3
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 £371 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £365.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cardiff for Inverness 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 670 km distance in an average of 10 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 45 m .
The slowest trains will take 11 h 13 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.
08:1910h45
Cardiff19:04Inverness
£3651One-way
0 changes
04:4911h13
Cardiff16:02Inverness
£3711One-way
0 changes
10:5310h50
Cardiff21:43Inverness
£3751One-way
0 changes
08:1910h45
Cardiff19:04Inverness
£3651One-way
0 changes
10:5310h50
Cardiff21:43Inverness
£3751One-way
0 changes
04:4911h13
Cardiff16:02Inverness
£3711One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Inverness
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £45. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 10h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £45, and a train costs an average of £281.
Distance: 670 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£361 Average Price | £73 Average Price Cheapest |
11h 3m Average total duration Fastest 10h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 0m Average total duration 17h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cardiff to Inverness train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Inverness trains for today, Friday 21 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 06:17
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:53 Cardiff | 10h30 | 20:23 Inverness | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:53 Cardiff | 10h50 | 21:43 Inverness | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 22 November | |||||
| 04:49 Cardiff | 11h13 | 16:02 Inverness | 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 Inverness 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.
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22 Nov
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23 Nov
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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 10h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £281 but you can travel from only £45 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:12, the last at 14:50. The fastest train covers the 670 km distance in 10h 14m.
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 £45
Distance 670 km |
Average train duration 10h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price £281 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 10h 14m |
First train 04:12 |
Last train 14:50 |
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 £45
Train companies: Caledonian Sleeper, LNER, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Inverness trainsCaledonian Sleeper, LNER, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Inverness from £45. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
LNER
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 Duration
10h 14m
Cheapest Price
£365
LNER 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
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
13h 13m
Cheapest Price
£365
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 17m
Cheapest Price
£413
Cross Country frequency
1 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 16m
Cheapest Price
£421
first_great_western frequency
1 a day
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 16m
Cheapest Price
£226
Transport for Wales frequency
3 a day
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.
Three to four days in Inverness is ideal for exploring the city's highlights, including the historic Inverness Castle, the picturesque River Ness, and nearby attractions like Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield.
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.
A day trip from Cardiff to Inverness is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 14m and covers 670 km. Trains run 4 times per day.
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.
In Inverness, you can explore local history and art at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, enjoy performances at Eden Court Theatre, and take a scenic walk through Ness Islands. Discover the historic Caledonian Canal by boat or on foot, and explore the natural beauty of Merkinch Local Nature Reserve. Visit best sights like Inverness Castle for panoramic views, the famous Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield with its visitor centre, the impressive Inverness Cathedral, and the ancient Clava Cairns.
To get from Cardiff to Inverness, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Inverness can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £281, while the average price tends to be around £361.
The train distance from Cardiff to Inverness is 670 km.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Inverness is by coach, costing approximately £45.
The train journey from Cardiff to Inverness covers a distance of 670 km and takes approximately 10h 14m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Inverness is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Inverness station (INV).
The first train from Cardiff to Inverness leaves at 4:12.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Inverness.
The last train from Cardiff to Inverness departs at 14:50.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Inverness.
Trains from Cardiff to Inverness run approximately 4 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Inverness.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Inverness.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Inverness
Cardiff
Inverness
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Queen Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Queen Street for your trip from Cardiff to Inverness.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
The major train station for arrivals in Inverness is Inverness. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Inverness for your journey to Inverness from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 20:30 Saturday 06:30 - 18:30 Sunday 09:15 - 20:20
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Concourse. The National key toilets are located on the Concourse; these toilets are operated by a radar key. Available between 0630 and 1930
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transport options for Inverness
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
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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