- Must visit
Poole Museum
Harbour-front museum telling Poole’s story through local archaeology, ceramics and maritime displays in restored historic buildings.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Poole
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Poole run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £63 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:16, the last at 20:41. The fastest train covers the 119 km distance in 3h 1m.
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 £19
Distance 119 km |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price £63 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 1m |
First train 4:16 |
Last train 20:41 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 3 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 £19
Why should you book Cardiff to Poole trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or South Western Railway offer trains services from Cardiff to Poole.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Poole.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Poole.
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Poole.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Poole.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Poole.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Cardiff to Poole trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Poole from £19. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 3m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£63
Great Western Railway frequency
5 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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 1m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£93
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£181
South Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Poole
Things to do in Poole
Discover the best of Poole — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Poole trip today.
- Recommended
Poole Pottery Visitor Centre
Working pottery and visitor centre showing how traditional Poole pottery is made, with displays, demonstrations and a shop for collectors.
- Recommended
RNLI Poole Old Lifeboat Museum
Compact RNLI museum by the quayside exploring lifeboat history, rescues and the heritage of the volunteer service founded in Poole.
- Must visit
Poole Quay
Historic waterfront lined with old buildings, pubs and boat activity. It is ideal for harbour views, walks, events and ferries around the bay.
- Must visit
Sandbanks Beach
Long sandy beach backed by pine trees and sea views, popular for swimming, walking and sunsets near the Sandbanks peninsula.
- Recommended
Poole Park
Large urban park with boating lake, gardens, play areas and regular events. A good family stop close to central Poole.
- Gluten-free
Poole Harbour Oysters
Fresh native oysters from nearby Poole Harbour, prized for their clean, briny flavour and long shellfish tradition on this Dorset coast.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Crab
Brown crab landed on the south coast, often served dressed or in sandwiches. It is a classic local seafood choice tied to Poole’s fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Scallops
Sweet, delicate scallops from Lyme Bay and the Dorset coast, commonly pan-fried. They are a regional favourite on Poole seafood menus.
The View Restaurant
Smart waterside dining room at Harbour Heights with modern British cooking and wide views over Poole Harbour and Sandbanks.
Custom House
Popular harbourside seafood restaurant known for fish, shellfish and relaxed waterside dining close to Poole Quay.
Jenkins and Sons
Lively quay restaurant serving seafood, grills and British favourites with harbour views and a polished but informal atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK coast: hotels rise in summer, meals are mid-priced, and local buses are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-14 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
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped about 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips.
Morebus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.60
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city centre
Poole Railway Station -> Poole Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless bank card payment and tap on tap off are available on Morebus services, including the m1/m2 and Zone A day tickets.
- For central Poole, Poole Railway Station is walkable to Poole Bus Station and the town centre, so you may not need onward transport.
Best day trips from Poole by train
The most popular day trips by train from Poole are Bournemouth, Southampton, Salisbury, Weymouth and Winchester. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Poole on Omio.
Day trip from Poole to Bournemouth by train
Why visit Bournemouth for the day?
Bournemouth is a south coast seaside town known for its long sandy beach, Victorian gardens and pier. It has a relaxed holiday feel, with a busy seafront, clifftop views and a lively town centre.
How to get from Poole to Bournemouth by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 8 km distance in 10m.
Day trip from Poole to Southampton by train
Why visit Southampton for the day?
Southampton is a maritime city on England’s south coast, known for its ocean liner history and links to the Titanic. Medieval walls and museums stand near a busy waterfront and modern shopping centre, giving it a lively yet practical feel.
How to get from Poole to Southampton by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 46 km distance in 45m.
Day trip from Poole to Salisbury by train
Why visit Salisbury for the day?
Salisbury is best known for its magnificent cathedral and its well-preserved medieval centre. The city feels compact and traditional, with historic streets, a lively market square and easy links to nearby Stonehenge.
How to get from Poole to Salisbury by train?
The earliest train runs at 05:28, the last at 23:03. The fastest train covers the 42 km distance in 1h 18m.
Day trip from Poole to Weymouth by train
Why visit Weymouth for the day?
Weymouth is a traditional seaside town on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, known for its sandy beach, harbour and Georgian seafront. It has a relaxed holiday feel, with coastal walks, watersports and strong maritime character.
How to get from Poole to Weymouth by train?
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:12, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 35 km distance in 38m.
Day trip from Poole to Winchester by train
Why visit Winchester for the day?
Winchester is a historic Hampshire city known for its cathedral, medieval streets and links to King Alfred the Great. Once an Anglo-Saxon capital, it feels compact, walkable and quietly elegant.
How to get from Poole to Winchester by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 61 km distance in 1h 4m.
FAQs: Cardiff to Poole train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Poole 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 Poole, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Poole can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £63, while the average price tends to be around £83.
The train journey from Cardiff to Poole covers a distance of 119 km and takes approximately 3h 1m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Poole is 119 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Poole leaves at 4:16.
The last train from Cardiff to Poole departs at 20:41.
Trains from Cardiff to Poole run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Cardiff to Poole.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Poole.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Poole.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Poole is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Poole station (POO).
Booking trains from Cardiff to Poole 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 Poole offers a pleasant mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring views of the Severn Estuary, rolling countryside, and picturesque towns, providing a moderately scenic experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Poole.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Poole
Most Cardiff to Poole trains use the Cardiff Central to Poole station pair, with some services arriving at Parkstone (Dorset). Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Poole 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 Poole
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 Poole station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Poole most often arrive at Poole. Some services arrive at Parkstone (Dorset), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Poole arrival station.
PoolePoole station, Serpentine Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Poole from Poole city centre
Poole is 1 km from Poole city centre. Public transport options include:
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation forecourt, off Serpentine Road
Poole train station facilities and services
Poole has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Poole.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Poole. ATMs are available at Poole.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Poole.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Poole: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Poole: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Poole: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - There is level access to both sides of the station by ramps. Interchange between platforms is via a ramped underpass at the London end of the platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Parkstone (Dorset)Parkstone station, Station Road, Parkstone, Dorset, BH14 8UD
City-centre transport
Getting to Parkstone (Dorset) from Poole city centre
Parkstone (Dorset) is 3 km from Poole city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPoole - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Southampton Central, Weymouth - Bournemouth, Poole - Brockenhurst, Poole - Winchester, Poole - Bournemouth, Weymouth - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Poole - Southampton Central · 3m · £1 · every ~4 min
Buscity_sightseeing_bournemouth · 7m · every ~2 min
m1, 419, 449, N1 · 13m · £2 · every ~34 min
m1, U2, N1 · 14m · £2 · every ~47 min
Parkstone (Dorset) train station facilities and services
Parkstone (Dorset) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Parkstone (Dorset).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Parkstone (Dorset).
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Parkstone (Dorset): Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Parkstone (Dorset): Bike Parking.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Poole
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Poole and Cardiff
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