- Must visit
Leeds Art Gallery
Leeds’s principal art gallery shows British art, sculpture and changing exhibitions in an elegant central building.
Cheapest price
£44
Average price
£77
Fastest journey
5 h 15 m
Average duration
5 h 21 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
280 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Leeds is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Leeds will cost around £77 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £44.
Of the 7 trains that leave Cardiff for Leeds every day 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 280 km distance in an average of 5 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 15 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 27 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.










Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Leeds among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £14, and a train costs an average of £32.
Distance: 280 km
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£49 Average Price | £19 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 4h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 23m Average total duration 6h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg 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.
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Leeds trains for today, Friday 28 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G66712 · G01064 | On time 8:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h16 | 13:01 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38967+ C24909 | On time 8:55 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h53 | 13:48 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38967+ C24608 | On time 8:55 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h15 | 14:10 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G01067 | On time 9:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h18 | 14:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 0 changesdirect | |
G00869_G01067+ G15043 | On time 9:49 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h14 | 14:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38950+ G15955 | On time 9:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h55 | 14:48 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38950+ G16023 | On time 9:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h17 | 15:10 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G00941 · G01069 | On time 10:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h17 | 15:02 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G01069+ G15044 | Delayed 10:42 10:50Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h12 | 15:02 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38975+ G15953 | 10:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h55 | 15:48 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38975+ C24619 | On time 10:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h17 | 16:10 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G39032+ W34179+ C24619 | On time 11:23 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h47 | 16:10 Leeds station (LDS) | 2 changes | |
G00900 · G01073 | 11:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h18 | 16:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G01073+ W35182 | On time 11:50 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h13 | 16:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38953+ W85294 | On time 11:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h41 | 16:34 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G00947 · G01074 | 12:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h16 | 17:01 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G01074+ G15047 | On time 12:50 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h11 | 17:01 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38983+ G15948 | On time 12:55 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h52 | 17:47 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38983+ W85303 | On time 12:55 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h38 | 17:33 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G00905 · G01080 | On time 13:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h18 | 18:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G01080+ W35187 | Delayed 13:42 13:50Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h13 | 18:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38955+ G16244 | On time 13:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h39 | 18:32 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G00946 · G01082 | On time 14:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h16 | 19:01 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38991+ W85320 | On time 14:50 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h43 | 19:33 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G01082+ G15048 | Delayed 14:42 14:54Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h07 | 19:01 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G66797 · G01083 | On time 15:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h18 | 20:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38957+ C24929 | On time 15:51 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h57 | 20:48 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38957+ G16001 | On time 15:51 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h19 | 21:10 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G01083+ W35194 | Delayed 15:42 15:54Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h09 | 20:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G00921 · G00723 | On time 16:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h16 | 21:01 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G00723+ W35196 | Delayed 16:42 16:50Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h11 | 21:01 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38999+ G15949 | On time 16:55 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h14 | 22:09 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G66837 · G00730 | On time 17:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h18 | 22:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G00730+ W35200 | Delayed 17:42 17:50Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h13 | 22:03 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G38959+ C24656 | On time 17:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h17 | 23:10 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G66813 · G00735 | On time 18:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h54 | 23:39 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G39004+ C24657 | On time 18:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h25 | 0:18 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
Y62764+ C24661 | On time 20:10 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h07 | 1:17 Leeds station (LDS) | 1 change | |
G39013+ C24990+ G90053 | On time 21:26 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h59 | 4:25 Leeds station (LDS) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cardiff to Leeds run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £32 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 02:20, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 280 km distance in 4h 18m.
Distance 280 km |
Average train duration 4h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price £32 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 18m |
First train 2:20 |
Last train 23:35 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Leeds — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leeds trip today.
Leeds’s principal art gallery shows British art, sculpture and changing exhibitions in an elegant central building.
A major city museum with natural history, archaeology and local history displays suitable for all ages.
A large industrial museum in a former mill, covering textiles, engineering and Leeds’s manufacturing heritage.
A grand pedestrianised square framed by major buildings, often hosting events, markets and seasonal installations.
A lively regenerated waterfront with canalside walks, converted warehouses, public art and independent venues.
A handsome Victorian shopping arcade with mosaics and period detail, ideal for architecture and boutique browsing.
A Leeds speciality of white fish baked in cream and topped with mashed potato. It is tied to Victorian cookery in the city and wider West Yorkshire.
Classic Yorkshire pudding served as a savoury starter with onion gravy. It is a defining county dish commonly eaten in Leeds pubs and Sunday roasts.
Slow-cooked beef stew with root vegetables and herbs under a suet pastry lid. A hearty northern pub dish long associated with Yorkshire cooking.
Popular Indian restaurant serving classic curries and tandoori dishes in a smart, welcoming room. Well suited to Leeds' strong South Asian food scene.
Refined British tasting menus in an intimate, modern dining room. A strong choice for seasonal Yorkshire produce and a special-occasion meal.
Lively city-centre restaurant known for dry-aged steaks, burgers and cocktails. Stylish but relaxed, suited to a polished casual dinner.
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while public transport and everyday tourist costs stay fairly manageable.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Official public transport app
Leeds Bradford Airport -> Leeds Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Leeds 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 Leeds, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cardiff to Leeds trains use the Cardiff Central to Leeds station pair, with some services arriving at Burley Park. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Leeds train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: 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.
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
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 options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Leeds has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Caffè Nero, KFC, Leon, McDonald's, The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Pret a Manger, JD Wetherspoon, Delice de France
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located in the West Footbridge and South Concourse.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:45 - 23:59, Sun: 06:45 - 22:30. Information desks are located on the North Concourse near the Wellington Street entrance. Open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Luggage storage is located on the main concourse. Services provided by Excess Baggage Co, open daily from 08:00 until 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Leeds: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Leeds: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Leeds: There are elevators or level access to all platforms in the whole station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Center, The Queens Hotel, Leeds Marriott Hotel.
Burley Park is 2 km from Leeds city centre. Public transport options include:
Burley Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Burley Park.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Burley Park: Parking, Taxis.
Available at Burley Park: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Burley Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B station, Persons in wheelchairs can gain easy access onto both platforms. However to get onto the Harrogate bound platform you have to go a long way round it will take approx 5-7 minutes, 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 ticket machines note: Cards Only - No Cash Accepted, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Headingley is 3 km from Leeds city centre. Public transport options include:
Headingley has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Headingley.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Headingley: Parking.
Available at Headingley: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Headingley: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station. The conductor will carry out any assistance, please wait on the platform. This station has recently benefitted from the installation of lifts, level access to platform 1 with platform 2 being accessible using the lift and a short subway, 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, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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