- Recommended
Lincoln Museum
Museum on the city’s Roman archaeology, with mosaics, tombstones and everyday finds that bring Roman Lindum to life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Lincoln
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 01 Nov
- Cheapest price on 01 Nov
- £104
- Average ticket price on 01 Nov
- £122
- Fastest journey on 01 Nov
- 4 h 48 m
- Average journey duration on 01 Nov
- 5 h 1 m
- Trains on 01 Nov
- 17
- 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 £122 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £104.
Fast trains
To travel from Cardiff to Lincoln you need to make at least one change.
W35220+
C88231+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+
C0209714:20 6h12 Cardiff Central (CDF) 20:32 Lincoln Central (LCN) £104 1 One-way 3 changes- C00125+G08070+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
16:20 5h12 Cardiff Central (CDF) 21:32 Lincoln Central (LCN) £104 1 One-way 2 changes - W35445+C02125+C88232+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
17:20 5h17 Cardiff Central (CDF) 22:37 Lincoln Central (LCN) £104 1 One-way 3 changes - W35438+G08064+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
12:20 5h35 Cardiff Central (CDF) 17:55 Lincoln Central (LCN) £104 1 One-way 2 changes - W35439+C88228+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+C02021
13:20 5h35 Cardiff Central (CDF) 18:55 Lincoln Central (LCN) £104 1 One-way 3 changes
G66783+C2122813:45 4h48 Cardiff Central (CDF) 18:33 Lincoln Central (LCN) £139 1 One-way 1 change- G01078+C21375+
G3898013:51 4h57 Cardiff Central (CDF) 18:48 Lincoln Central (LCN) £139 1 One-way 2 changes - G00898+C21361
11:45 5h06 Cardiff Central (CDF) 16:51 Lincoln Central (LCN) £139 1 One-way 1 change - G66798+C21360
15:45 5h06 Cardiff Central (CDF) 20:51 Lincoln Central (LCN) £139 1 One-way 1 change - G01077+C21371+G38976
12:40 5h08 Cardiff Central (CDF) 17:48 Lincoln Central (LCN) £139 1 One-way 2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Lincoln
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Lincoln run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 but you can travel from only £23 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 19:32. The fastest train covers the 264 km distance in 3h 49m.
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 £23
Distance 264 km |
Average train duration 4h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 49m |
First train 5:07 |
Last train 19:32 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 £23
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Lincoln trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Lincoln.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Lincoln can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £78.
The train journey from Cardiff to Lincoln covers a distance of 264 km and takes approximately 3h 49m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Lincoln is 264 km.
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 7 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Live departures
Cardiff to Lincoln train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Lincoln trains for tomorrow, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G01066+C21358+G39589 | 8:23 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h37 | 14:00 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| C50038+C02095+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 8:50 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h45 | 14:35 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| C00165+C88217+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+N09300 | 9:35 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h57 | 15:32 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3 changes | |
| G01071+C21367+Y61968 | Delayed 12:11 10:30Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h30 | 16:00 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| C33109+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+G08058 | 11:20 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h15 | 16:35 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| G00898+C21361 | On time 11:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h06 | 16:51 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 1 change | |
| W35438+G08064+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 12:20 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h35 | 17:55 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| G01077+C21371+G38976 | 12:40 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h08 | 17:48 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| W35439+C88228+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+C02021 | 13:20 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h35 | 18:55 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3 changes | |
| G66783+C21228 | On time 13:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h48 | 18:33 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 1 change | |
| G01078+C21375+G38980 | 13:51 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h57 | 18:48 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| W35220+C88231+C02097+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 14:20 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h12 | 20:32 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3 changes | |
| W29792+Y61969+C21366 | 14:29 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h22 | 19:51 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| G66798+C21360 | 15:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h06 | 20:51 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 1 change | |
| C00125+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+G08070 | 16:20 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h12 | 21:32 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| G00724+G38992+C21355 | 16:41 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h10 | 21:51 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 2 changes | |
| W35445+C88232+C02125+Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 17:20 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h17 | 22:37 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 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 Lincoln trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway, East Midlands Railway or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Lincoln.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway, East Midlands Railway or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Lincoln.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway from Cardiff to Lincoln trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Lincoln from £23. 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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 52m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£35
CrossCountry frequency
5 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
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
3h 49m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£80
Great Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
4h 23m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£100
East Midlands Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
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
4h 1m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£98
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Lincoln
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Lincoln.
Complete guide to Lincoln
Things to do in Lincoln
Discover the best of Lincoln — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lincoln trip today.
- Recommended
The Usher Gallery
Independent gallery and sculpture garden in a historic house. It shows modern and contemporary art in an intimate setting.
- Recommended
The Collection Museum
Archaeology and social history museum with treasures from across Lincolnshire. Good for a broad introduction to the county.
- Must visit
Steep Hill
Steep historic street lined with independent shops and old buildings. It is one of Lincoln’s most distinctive walking routes.
- Recommended
Castle Square
Historic square between the cathedral and castle, ideal for views, events and a relaxed pause in the city’s oldest quarter.
- Recommended
Brayford Waterfront
Popular waterfront area with moored boats, paths and places to sit. A pleasant contrast to the city’s uphill medieval core.
Lincolnshire sausage
A spiced pork sausage protected by PGI status, long associated with Lincolnshire and traditionally flavoured with sage.
- Vegetarian
Lincolnshire plum bread
A rich fruit loaf packed with dried fruit and often served sliced with butter. It is a classic Lincolnshire tea-time bake.
- Gluten-free
Poacher cheese
A soft local cheese from Lincolnshire, notable for its creamy texture and mild flavour, often enjoyed on biscuits or in salads.
Ole Ole Tapas Bar & Restaurant
Stylish city-centre restaurant known for British and European dishes, cocktails and a lively yet polished atmosphere.
The Strugglers Inn
Popular traditional pub by the cathedral, serving cask ales and classic pub meals in a historic atmosphere.
The Jews House Restaurant
Independent uphill restaurant serving modern British food in an intimate setting near Lincoln Cathedral.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in London, while local buses and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up in taxis, and tip only small change in cafés if you wish.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city centre
Lincoln Central -> Lincoln Transport Hub, Lincoln
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Stagecoach operates the main city buses in Lincoln. Buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app or on the bus.
- Lincoln Central and Lincoln Transport Hub are next to each other, so changing between rail and bus is straightforward.
Plan your visit to Lincoln
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Lincoln.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Lincoln.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Lincoln
Most Cardiff to Lincoln trains use the Cardiff Central to Lincoln Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Lincoln 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 Lincoln
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 Lincoln station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Lincoln arrive at Lincoln Central. Lincoln Central is from Lincoln city centre.
Lincoln CentralLincoln station, St Marys Street, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN5 7EW
City-centre transport
Getting to Lincoln Central from Lincoln city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesOutside the front of the station.
Lincoln Central train station facilities and services
Lincoln Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lincoln Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Lincoln Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lincoln Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lincoln Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lincoln Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lincoln Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station. This station has step free access to all platforms. This station doesn't have tactile paving at the edges of the platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: all cabs on station rank are wheelchair accessible, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Fastticket, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Cardiff to Lincoln
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Lincoln, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Lincoln is Cardiff Central, and it arrives at Lincoln Central.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Lincoln
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lincoln and Cardiff
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