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Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Cardiff to Lancaster
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Lancaster among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £34. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £34, and a train costs an average of £58.
Distance: 289 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£80 Average Price | £54 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 41m Average total duration Fastest 4h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 33m Average total duration 7h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cardiff to Lancaster train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Lancaster trains for today, Friday 28 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 01:07
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:53 Cardiff | 5h10 | 12:03 Lancaster | 0 changesdirect | |
| 09:53 Cardiff | 4h57 | 14:50 Lancaster | 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 Lancaster 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Lancaster
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Lancaster run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £58 but you can travel from only £34 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 20:58. The fastest train covers the 289 km distance in 4h 31m.
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 £34
Distance 289 km |
Average train duration 4h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price £58 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 31m |
First train 04:15 |
Last train 20:58 |
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 £34
Train companies: Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast from Cardiff to Lancaster trainsTransport for Wales, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Cardiff and Lancaster from £34. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 57m
Cheapest Price
£39
Transport for Wales frequency
4 a day
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
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 14m
Cheapest Price
£51
Avanti West Coast 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
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
FAQs: Cardiff to Lancaster train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Lancaster 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 Lancaster, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
To fully explore Lancaster, including its historical attractions, museums, and nearby countryside, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Lancaster in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
A day trip from Cardiff to Lancaster is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 31m one way. However, there are 5 train trips per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Lancaster is 289 km.
To get from Cardiff to Lancaster, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Lancaster can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £58, while the average price tends to be around £80.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Lancaster is by coach, costing approximately £34.
The train journey from Cardiff to Lancaster covers a distance of 289 km and takes approximately 4h 31m. Trains run 5 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Lancaster leaves at 4:15.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Lancaster is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Lancaster station (LAN).
The last train from Cardiff to Lancaster departs at 20:58.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Lancaster.
Trains from Cardiff to Lancaster run approximately 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Lancaster.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Lancaster.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Lancaster.
The train journey from Cardiff to Lancaster offers scenic views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of the coast, making it a pleasant and picturesque route.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Lancaster
Cardiff
Lancaster
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cathays. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cathays for your trip from Cardiff to Lancaster.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibility
WCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation 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)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
7 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Rhymney) via a ramp with a steep gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Cardiff) via Clos Llysfaen and a ramp with a shallow gradient. Access between the platforms is via a footbridge
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- 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
Public transport options for Lisvane & Thornhill
- Onward travel information: Visit Cardiff Bus (routes 85 and 86) for more details.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait on Cherry Orchard Road adjacent to station car park entrance
The major train station for arrivals in Lancaster is Lancaster. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lancaster for your journey to Lancaster from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 19:45 Saturday 05:15 - 19:45 Sunday 09:30 - 20:00
Distance to city center
2 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Lifts to All Platforms, accessible via taking the right hand entrance to the over bridge from the ticket office.
- 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 National key toilets are located on Platforms 3 and 4; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Yes, located platform 4/5 and platform 3
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 1 (south end)120 Stands Platform 3 (middle) 16 Platform 4 (North End), 12 Stands Platform 5, 40 Stands
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Lancaster
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stop outside the station rear entrance adjacent to platform 3.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Lancaster
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lancaster and Cardiff
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