Cardiff to Lincoln train with CrossCountry

Fri 19 Dec
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Lincoln

Showing times and prices for 20 Dec

Cheapest price

£67

Average price

£99

Fastest journey

4 h 36 m

Average duration

4 h 46 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

264 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Lincoln is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Lincoln will cost around £99 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £67.

Fast trains

To travel from Cardiff to Lincoln you need to make at least one change.

CrossCountryC74969+East Midlands TrainsY12411
08:454h42
Cardiff Central (CDF)
13:27Lincoln Central (LCN)
£671One-way
1 change
CrossCountryC74998+East Midlands TrainsC51223
10:454h42
Cardiff Central (CDF)
15:27Lincoln Central (LCN)
£671One-way
1 change
Great Western RailL23179+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+LNERY11918+East Midlands TrainsY12588
08:515h06
Cardiff Central (CDF)
13:57Lincoln Central (LCN)
£931One-way
3 changes
Great Western RailL23180+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+LNERY11752
09:195h16
Cardiff Central (CDF)
14:35Lincoln Central (LCN)
£931One-way
2 changes
Great Western RailL23179+CrossCountryC75331+East Midlands TrainsY12411
08:514h36
Cardiff Central (CDF)
13:27Lincoln Central (LCN)
£1381One-way
2 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Lincoln

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Lincoln among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £26. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £26, and a train costs an average of £59.

Distance: 264 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

£91

Average Price

£38

Average Price

Cheapest

4h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 16m

Average total duration

5h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cardiff to Lincoln train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Lincoln trains for today, Friday 19 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 15:25
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
cross_countryC74997+east_midlands_railwayY12413
On time
10:45 Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h42
15:27 Lincoln Central (LCN)
1 change
great_westernP22800+assertis_tubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+london_north_eastern_railwayC41025+east_midlands_railwayY12594
On time
10:50 Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h07
15:57 Lincoln Central (LCN)
3 changes
great_westernP22800+cross_countryC75334+east_midlands_railwayY12413
On time
10:50 Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h37
15:27 Lincoln Central (LCN)
2 changes
cross_countryC74972+east_midlands_railwayY12414
On time
11:45 Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h42
16:27 Lincoln Central (LCN)
1 change
great_westernP22802+assertis_tubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+london_north_eastern_railwayC40764
On time
11:50 Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h45
16:35 Lincoln Central (LCN)
2 changes
great_westernP22802+cross_countryC75336+east_midlands_railwayY12414
On time
11:50 Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h37
16:27 Lincoln Central (LCN)
2 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Lincoln 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.

Sat
20 Dec
Sun
21 Dec
Mon
22 Dec
Tue
23 Dec
Wed
24 Dec
Thu
25 Dec
Fri
26 Dec

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Lincoln

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Lincoln run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £59 but you can travel from only £26 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 19:32. The fastest train covers the 264 km distance in 4h 40m.

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 £26
Distance
264 km
Average train duration
4h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
£59
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 40m
First train
05:07
Last train
19:32
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 £26

Train companies: CrossCountry from Cardiff to Lincoln trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Lincoln from £26. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
4h 40m
Cheapest Price
£59
CrossCountry frequency
4 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

FAQs: Cardiff to Lincoln train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Lincoln 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 Lincoln, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
To fully experience Lincoln, including its historical sites like Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle, as well as its vibrant cultural scene, a stay of approximately two to three days is recommended.
In Lincoln, you can explore the vibrant Brayford Waterfront with its array of restaurants and bars overlooking the marina. Take a guided tour of the historic Lincoln Castle, which houses one of the original copies of the Magna Carta and offers panoramic views of the city. Wander through the charming shops and cafes on Steep Hill, connecting the historic and modern parts of the city. Visit the Usher Gallery for a collection of fine and decorative arts, and enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic in the scenic Lincoln Arboretum. Don't miss the stunning Lincoln Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that was once one of the tallest buildings in the world, and explore The Collection, a museum showcasing archaeology and fine art from the region.
The train journey from Cardiff to Lincoln offers views of the picturesque Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and charming rural landscapes, particularly as it passes through regions like the Cotswolds and the Midlands.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Lincoln 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 Lincoln is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 40m. There are 6 train trips per day, covering a distance of 264 km.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Lincoln can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £59, while the average price tends to be around £91.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Lincoln is by coach, costing approximately £26.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Lincoln is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Lincoln Central (LCN).
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Lincoln.
To get from Cardiff to Lincoln, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
The train distance from Cardiff to Lincoln is 264 km.
The train journey from Cardiff to Lincoln covers a distance of 264 km and takes approximately 4h 40m. Trains run 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Lincoln leaves at 5:07.
The last train from Cardiff to Lincoln departs at 19:32.
Trains from Cardiff to Lincoln run approximately 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Lincoln.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Lincoln.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Lincoln

Cardiff
Lincoln
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
Dining
  • Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
  • Pret a Manger
  • Tesco Express
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
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
Hotel
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff
  • Cardiff Marriott Hotel
  • Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
  • 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.
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Bay
  • Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Information Desk
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

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Lincoln

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Lincoln Cardiff to Lincoln train

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