Cardiff to Liverpool train with Transport for Wales

Tue 13 Oct
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Liverpool

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct

Cheapest price on 13 Oct

£53

Average ticket price on 13 Oct

£88

Fastest journey on 13 Oct

3 h 38 m

Average journey duration on 13 Oct

3 h 42 m

Trains on 13 Oct

14

Distance

215 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool will cost around £88 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £53.

Fast trains

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

  • Transport for WalesG39042+Mersey RailC00606
    19:384h01
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    23:39Liverpool James Street (LVJ)
    £531One-way
    1 change
  • CrossCountryG66712+West Midlands TrainsC17774
    8:453h57
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:42Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
    £571One-way
    1 change
  • Transport for WalesG38967+West Midlands TrainsC17774
    8:553h47
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:42Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
    £601One-way
    1 change
  • Transport for WalesG39027+Mersey RailC07965
    9:233h46
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    13:09Liverpool James Street (LVJ)
    £601One-way
    1 change
  • Transport for WalesG38949+West Midlands TrainsC17780
    9:533h49
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    13:42Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
    £701One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Liverpool

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 215 km distance in 3h 9m.

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 £12
Distance
215 km
Average train duration
3h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
£19
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
3h 9m
First train
4:00
Last train
23:34
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 days
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 £12

Live departures

Cardiff to Liverpool train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Liverpool trains for today, Monday 12 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Transport for WalesG39032+Mersey RailC07981
On time
11:23 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h46
15:09 Liverpool James Street (LVJ)
1 change
Transport for WalesG38953+West Midlands TrainsC17775
On time
11:53 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h49
15:42 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 change
Great Western RailwayG15046+CrossCountryG00872+West Midlands TrainsC17758
On time
12:18 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h59
16:17 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
2 changes
Transport for WalesG38983+West Midlands TrainsC17781
On time
12:55 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h47
16:42 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 change
Transport for WalesG39035+Mersey RailC07997
On time
13:23 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h46
17:09 Liverpool James Street (LVJ)
1 change
CrossCountryG00905+Avanti West CoastW33918
On time
13:45 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h38
17:23 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 change
Transport for WalesG38955+West Midlands TrainsC17966
On time
13:53 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h49
17:42 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)
1 change
Tuesday 13 October
Great Western RailwayG15041+CrossCountryG00854+West Midlands TrainsC177978:18 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h59
12:17 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)2 changes
CrossCountryG66712+West Midlands TrainsC177748:45 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h57
12:42 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)1 change
CrossCountryG66712+Avanti West CoastW339168:45 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h38
12:23 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)1 change
Transport for WalesG38967+West Midlands TrainsC177748:55 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h47
12:42 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)1 change
Transport for WalesG39027+Mersey RailC079659:23 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h46
13:09 Liverpool James Street (LVJ)1 change
Transport for WalesG38949+West Midlands TrainsC177809:53 Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h49
13:42 Liverpool Lime Street (LIV)1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cardiff to Liverpool trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains offer trains services from Cardiff to Liverpool.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Liverpool.
  • 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Liverpool.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Cardiff and Liverpool from £12. 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 Transport for Wales Duration
3h 9m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£19
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

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 20m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£41
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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
3h 25m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£49
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Liverpool

Things to do in Liverpool

Discover the best of Liverpool — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Liverpool trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum of Liverpool

A major museum covering Liverpool’s global links, city life and transport, with family-friendly displays and broad local history.

  • Must visit

World Museum

An extensive museum of archaeology, world cultures and natural history, known for varied displays and free family visits.

  • Recommended

Tate Liverpool

A waterfront gallery with British art, decorative works and changing exhibitions in a landmark dockside building.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while buses, trains and attractions can still add up in peak periods.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip about 10%. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually just small change.

Best day trips from Liverpool by train

The most popular day trips by train from Liverpool are Manchester, Chester, Birmingham, Leeds and York. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Liverpool on Omio.

A view of Manchester

Day trip from Liverpool to Manchester by train

Why visit Manchester for the day?

Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, influential music and deep football culture. Red-brick canalside areas, major museums and lively nightlife give it an energetic northern character.

How to get from Liverpool to Manchester by train?

There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 50 km distance in 31m.

A view of Chester

Day trip from Liverpool to Chester by train

Why visit Chester for the day?

Chester is known for its Roman walls, medieval streets and the distinctive black-and-white Rows. Compact and walkable, it blends deep history with a relaxed riverside setting and a lively city centre.

How to get from Liverpool to Chester by train?

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:19, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 25 km distance in 39m.

A view of Birmingham

Day trip from Liverpool to Birmingham by train

Why visit Birmingham for the day?

Birmingham is known for its industrial past, canal network and diverse food scene. It combines major shopping and cultural landmarks with lively neighbourhoods shaped by manufacturing, music and modern city life.

How to get from Liverpool to Birmingham by train?

There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 22:43. The fastest train covers the 126 km distance in 1h 25m.

A view of Leeds

Day trip from Liverpool to Leeds by train

Why visit Leeds for the day?

Leeds is a major West Yorkshire city known for Victorian arcades, shopping and a lively music scene. Its industrial heritage, regenerated waterfront and large student population give it an energetic but down-to-earth character.

How to get from Liverpool to Leeds by train?

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:17, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 104 km distance in 1h 22m.

A view of York

Day trip from Liverpool to York by train

Why visit York for the day?

York is known for its Roman and Viking heritage, medieval streets and the imposing York Minster. Its compact centre, old walls and busy mix of shops, pubs and museums make it easy to grasp the city's historic character.

How to get from Liverpool to York by train?

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:18, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 139 km distance in 1h 47m.

Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool

There are several companies running the train service from Cardiff to Liverpool and they include Arriva Trains Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway and Virgin trains. A traveller can expect to get a train with either one or two changes. Arriva Trains leave the departure station, Cardiff Central, every hour and they stop at Crewe where there is a train leaving every thirty minutes for the arrival station, Liverpool Lime Street. A CrossCountry train will take an estimated four hours for the same journey. There is an hourly train leaving Cardiff Central with a change at Birmingham New Street then to the arrival station, Liverpool Lime Street.

FAQs: Cardiff to Liverpool train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £19, while the average price tends to be around £71.
The train journey from Cardiff to Liverpool covers a distance of 215 km and takes approximately 3h 9m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Liverpool is 215 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Liverpool leaves at 4:00.
The last train from Cardiff to Liverpool departs at 23:34.
Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Liverpool.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Liverpool.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Liverpool.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Liverpool is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Liverpool Lime Street (LIV).
Booking trains from Cardiff to Liverpool in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cardiff to Liverpool offers scenic views, particularly through the Welsh countryside and along the coast near Chester, providing passengers with picturesque landscapes and glimpses of rural life.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Liverpool.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Liverpool

Most Cardiff to Liverpool trains use the Cardiff Central to Liverpool Lime Street station pair, with some services arriving at Liverpool James Street. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Liverpool 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 Liverpool
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre

Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · £2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.

Tickets and information

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.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

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.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

Whitchurch (Cardiff)Whitchurch station, off Pen-y-Dre, Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 1BPParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Whitchurch (Cardiff) from Cardiff city centre

Whitchurch (Cardiff) is 5 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 12m · £2 · every ~4 min
Cardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 16m · £3 · every ~4 min
Bus400 · 21m · £4 · every ~6 min
24, 25, 101, 21, 102 · 47m · £2 · every ~18 min

Whitchurch (Cardiff) train station facilities and services

Whitchurch (Cardiff) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B Step free access to the platform from Pen y Dre, 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.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Liverpool

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

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