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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Nottingham
Showing times and prices for 22 Feb
Cheapest price
£47
Average price
£82
Fastest journey
3 h 8 m
Average duration
3 h 41 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
214 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Nottingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Nottingham will cost around £82 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £47.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cardiff for Nottingham every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 214 km distance in an average of 3 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 8 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 17 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.
13:453h08
Cardiff16:53Nottingham
£471One-way
0 changes
11:453h08
Cardiff14:53Nottingham
£591One-way
0 changes
09:354h12
Cardiff13:47Nottingham
£1111One-way
0 changes
10:304h17
Cardiff14:47Nottingham
£1111One-way
0 changes
11:453h08
Cardiff14:53Nottingham
£591One-way
0 changes
13:453h08
Cardiff16:53Nottingham
£471One-way
0 changes
09:354h12
Cardiff13:47Nottingham
£1111One-way
0 changes
10:304h17
Cardiff14:47Nottingham
£1111One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Nottingham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Nottingham 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 43m. 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 £14, and a train costs an average of £24.
Distance: 214 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£50 Average Price | £25 Average Price Cheapest |
5h 13m Average total duration Fastest 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration 5h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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.
Live departures
Cardiff to Nottingham train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Nottingham trains for today, Saturday 21 February. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 05:57
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C74969 | On time 08:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h16 | 12:01 Nottingham station (NOT) | 0 changesdirect | |
 L23179+C75331+ Y12411 | On time 08:51 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h26 | 12:17 Nottingham station (NOT) | 2 changes | |
| C74970 | On time 09:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h18 | 13:03 Nottingham station (NOT) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C74998 | On time 10:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h18 | 14:03 Nottingham station (NOT) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C75007 | On time 12:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h17 | 16:02 Nottingham station (NOT) | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Nottingham 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.
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22 Feb
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23 Feb
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Why should you book Cardiff to Nottingham trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as West Midlands Trains, National Express, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Nottingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Nottingham.
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 West Midlands Trains, National Express or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Nottingham.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Nottingham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains, National Express or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Nottingham.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Nottingham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Nottingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Nottingham run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 20:54. The fastest train covers the 214 km distance in 3h 8m.
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 £14
Distance 214 km |
Average train duration 4h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price £24 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 8m |
First train 05:14 |
Last train 20:54 |
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 £14
Train companies: CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, National Express, Cross Country from Cardiff to Nottingham trainsCrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, National Express, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Nottingham from £14. 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
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
£24
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
West Midlands Trains frequency
2 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
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 20m
Cheapest Price
£16
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
£174
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
FAQs: Cardiff to Nottingham train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Nottingham 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 Nottingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Nottingham can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £50.
The train journey from Cardiff to Nottingham covers a distance of 214 km and takes approximately 3h 8m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Nottingham is 214 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Nottingham leaves at 5:14.
The last train from Cardiff to Nottingham departs at 20:54.
Trains from Cardiff to Nottingham run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Nottingham.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Nottingham. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To get from Cardiff to Nottingham, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Nottingham.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Nottingham is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Nottingham station (NOT).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Nottingham is by coach, costing approximately £14.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Nottingham 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 Nottingham offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the picturesque Welsh countryside, the rolling hills of the Midlands, and charming towns along the way, making for a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Cardiff to Nottingham is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 8m. However, trains run 6 times per day. The distance is 214 km.
In Nottingham, visitors can explore the historic Nottingham Castle with its panoramic views and museum exhibits or visit Wollaton Hall, an Elizabethan mansion in a deer park that houses the Nottingham Natural History Museum. The City of Caves offers a fascinating underground adventure through the sandstone caves, while Nottingham Contemporary showcases diverse art exhibitions. For a taste of history, stop by Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, one of England's oldest pubs. Enjoy the lively atmosphere at Old Market Square, unwind at Attenborough Nature Reserve, or catch a performance at Nottingham Playhouse. Green's Windmill and Science Centre and The Arboretum also offer engaging experiences for all ages.
A stay of two to three days in Nottingham is generally recommended to explore its main attractions, such as Nottingham Castle, the City of Caves, and Wollaton Hall, while also enjoying the local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Nottingham.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Nottingham
Cardiff
Nottingham
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 Nottingham.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike 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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
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
- 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
The major train station for arrivals in Nottingham is Nottingham. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Nottingham for your journey to Nottingham from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 22:00 Saturday 05:00 - 22:00 Sunday 07:15 - 22:20
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a category A access station. There are lifts available to all platforms and there is level and ramp access to the concourse and ticket office/machines. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible public telephones: none
- Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on useful information poster at station.
- 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 toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 and Platform 5/6. The National key toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 and Platform 5/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 & Platform 5/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle hub located on ground floor of multi-storey car park on Queens Road. Additional stands in secure compound adjacent to Platform 1 on Station Road.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Nottingham
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses will pick up and drop off from Carrington Street, at the front of the station.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Nottingham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Nottingham and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Nottingham
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