Cardiff to Rugby train with CrossCountry

Sun 09 Aug
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Rugby

Showing times and prices for 09 Aug

Cheapest price

£0.00

Average price

£18

Fastest journey

2 h 34 m

Average duration

2 h 50 m

Trains per day

20

Distance

165 km

Cheap tickets

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

Fast trains

To travel from Cardiff to Rugby you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • Transport for Wales
    8:233h24
    Cardiff
    11:47Rugby
    Find prices
    2 changes
  • Great Western Railway (GWR)
    9:353h09
    Cardiff
    12:44Rugby
    Find prices
    2 changes
  • Transport for Wales
    10:303h14
    Cardiff
    13:44Rugby
    Find prices
    2 changes
  • Cross Country
    11:452h59
    Cardiff
    14:44Rugby
    Find prices
    1 change
  • Great Western Railway (GWR)
    12:202h54
    Cardiff
    15:14Rugby
    Find prices
    2 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Rugby

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Rugby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 39m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £25, and a train costs an average of £35.

Distance: 165 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£39

Average Price

£25

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 25m

Average total duration

7h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Cardiff to Rugby train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Rugby trains for tomorrow, Sunday 9 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Transport for Wales8:23 Cardiff
3h24
11:47 Rugby2 changes
Great Western Railway (GWR)9:35 Cardiff
3h09
12:44 Rugby2 changes
Transport for Wales10:30 Cardiff
3h14
13:44 Rugby2 changes
Cross Country11:45 Cardiff
2h59
14:44 Rugby1 change
Great Western Railway (GWR)12:20 Cardiff
2h54
15:14 Rugby2 changes
Transport for Wales12:29 Cardiff
3h15
15:44 Rugby2 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Rugby 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.

Sun
09 Aug
Mon
10 Aug
Tue
11 Aug
Wed
12 Aug
Thu
13 Aug
Fri
14 Aug
Sat
15 Aug

Why should you book Cardiff to Rugby trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Rugby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Rugby.

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 Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Rugby.
  • 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 Rugby.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Rugby.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Rugby

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Rugby run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 but you can travel from only £25 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 21:15. The fastest train covers the 165 km distance in 3h 0m.

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 £25
Distance
165 km
Average train duration
2h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
£35
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
3h 0m
First train
5:14
Last train
21:15
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
2 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 £25

Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Rugby trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Rugby from £25. 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 0m
Cheapest Price
£35
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 59m
Cross Country frequency
7 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
£180
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
15 a day

Transport for Wales

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 14m
Transport for Wales frequency
5 a day

Complete guide to Rugby

Things to do in Rugby

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

  • Must visit

Rugby Football Museum

Museum on the birthplace of rugby football, with displays on the game’s origins, school history, and memorable sporting artefacts.

  • Recommended

Rugby Art Gallery and Museum

Local history museum with Roman finds, social history displays, and changing exhibitions that introduce Rugby and the wider borough.

  • Recommended

Rugby Art Gallery

Art gallery programme within Rugby Art Gallery and Museum, showing contemporary exhibitions alongside community-focused visual arts events.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Accommodation and dining are usually cheaper than London, while rail fares can be relatively high and local bus costs are manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, such as leaving small change.

FAQs: Cardiff to Rugby train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Rugby can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £39.
The train journey from Cardiff to Rugby covers a distance of 165 km and takes approximately 3h 0m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Rugby is 165 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Rugby leaves at 5:14.
The last train from Cardiff to Rugby departs at 21:15.
Trains from Cardiff to Rugby run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Rugby.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Rugby.
To get from Cardiff to Rugby, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Rugby.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Rugby is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Rugby station (RUG).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Rugby is by coach, costing approximately £25.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Rugby 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 Rugby offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque towns, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Cardiff to Rugby is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 0m. Trains run 3 times per day.
To explore Rugby's main attractions, such as the Rugby Football Museum and the historic architecture, 1 to 2 days should be sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Rugby.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Rugby

Most Cardiff to Rugby trains use the Cardiff Central to Rugby station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Rugby 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 Rugby
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.

Ninian ParkNinian Park station, Leckwith Road, Ninian Park, Cardiff, CF11 8AHParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Ninian Park from Cardiff city centre

Ninian Park is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Milford Haven, Cardiff Central - Carmarthen, Cardiff Central - Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil - Aberdare, Cardiff Central - Pembroke Dock, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 3m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Bus4, 611, 95 · 5m · £2 · every ~9 min

Ninian Park train station facilities and services

Ninian Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Ninian Park.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ninian Park: Parking, Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Ninian Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ninian Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient, 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.

Waun-gron ParkWaun-Gron Park station, Waungron Road, Waungron Park, Cardiff, CF5 2BN+44 333 321 1202ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Waun-gron Park from Cardiff city centre

Waun-gron Park is 3 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil - Aberdare, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Bus61, 32, 101, 102 · 15m · £4 · every ~14 min
61, 32, 101, 102 · 18m · £4 · every ~14 min

Waun-gron Park train station facilities and services

Waun-gron Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Waun-gron Park.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Waun-gron Park: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Waun-gron Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Waun-gron Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Radyr) and Platform 2 (to Cardiff) from Waungron Road via ramps with handrails and a steep gradient. Access between the platforms is via the ramps and beneath the railway bridge on Waungron Road, 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 Rugby

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

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Rugby Cardiff to Rugby train

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