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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Plymouth
Showing times and prices for 16 Jan
Cheapest price
£99
Average price
£101
Fastest journey
3 h 13 m
Average duration
3 h 48 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
141 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth will cost around £101 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £99.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cardiff for Plymouth every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 3 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 13 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 40 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.
05:283h13
Cardiff08:41Plymouth
£991One-way
0 changes
10:303h17
Cardiff13:47Plymouth
£1011One-way
0 changes
04:544h40
Cardiff09:34Plymouth
£1011One-way
0 changes
04:074h34
Cardiff08:41Plymouth
£1021One-way
0 changes
11:303h17
Cardiff14:47Plymouth
£1021One-way
0 changes
05:283h13
Cardiff08:41Plymouth
£991One-way
0 changes
10:303h17
Cardiff13:47Plymouth
£1011One-way
0 changes
11:303h17
Cardiff14:47Plymouth
£1021One-way
0 changes
04:074h34
Cardiff08:41Plymouth
£1021One-way
0 changes
04:544h40
Cardiff09:34Plymouth
£1011One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Plymouth
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Plymouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £9, and a train costs an average of £36.
Distance: 141 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
£93 Average Price | £17 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 42m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 5m Average total duration 4h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg 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 Plymouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Plymouth trains for tomorrow, Friday 16 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 14:12
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04:07 Cardiff | 4h34 | 08:41 Plymouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 04:54 Cardiff | 4h40 | 09:34 Plymouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 05:28 Cardiff | 3h13 | 08:41 Plymouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:30 Cardiff | 3h17 | 13:47 Plymouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:30 Cardiff | 3h17 | 14:47 Plymouth | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Plymouth 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.
Fri
16 Jan
16 Jan
Sat
17 Jan
17 Jan
Sun
18 Jan
18 Jan
Mon
19 Jan
19 Jan
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20 Jan
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22 Jan
22 Jan
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Plymouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Plymouth run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:42, the last at 22:32. The fastest train covers the 141 km distance in 3h 11m.
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 £9
Distance 141 km |
Average train duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price £36 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 11m |
First train 04:42 |
Last train 22:32 |
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 £9
Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, first_great_western from Cardiff to Plymouth trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Plymouth from £9. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Rail
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 Duration
3h 13m
Cheapest Price
£99
Great Western Rail frequency
3 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
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 16m
Cheapest Price
£67
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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest Price
£91
first_great_western frequency
25 a day
FAQs: Cardiff to Plymouth train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Plymouth 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 Plymouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £93.
The train journey from Cardiff to Plymouth covers a distance of 141 km and takes approximately 3h 11m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Plymouth is 141 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Plymouth leaves at 4:42.
The last train from Cardiff to Plymouth departs at 22:32.
Trains from Cardiff to Plymouth run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Plymouth. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Great Western Rail, first_great_western.
To get from Cardiff to Plymouth, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Plymouth.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Plymouth is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Plymouth station (PLY).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Plymouth is by coach, costing approximately £9.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Plymouth 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 Plymouth is considered scenic, offering views of rolling countryside, picturesque coastlines, and charming towns along the way.
A day trip from Cardiff to Plymouth is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 11m. Trains run 6 times per day.
To fully experience Plymouth's historic sites, waterfront attractions, and vibrant cultural scene, a stay of 2 to 3 days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Plymouth.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Plymouth
Cardiff
Plymouth
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 Plymouth.
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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
The major train station for arrivals in Plymouth is Plymouth. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Plymouth for your journey to Plymouth from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:25 - 20:00 Saturday 05:20 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:30
Shopping
- Type of shops available: WHSmith and Spar Supermarket
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and the station subway. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office.
- 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 Platform 4, Platform 7 and adjacent ticket counters.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Within accessible wc's
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platforms 3 and 4
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Plymouth
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Devonport
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Albert Road Bus Stop adjacent to Exmouth Road.
Dockyard
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transport options for Dockyard
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the bus stops on Keyham Road (B3396) near the turning to Keat Street
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Plymouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Plymouth and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Plymouth
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