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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Runcorn
Showing times and prices for 08 Nov
Cheapest price
£34
Average price
£49
Fastest journey
3 h 19 m
Average duration
3 h 38 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
209 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Runcorn is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Runcorn will cost around £49 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £34.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cardiff for Runcorn 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 209 km distance in an average of 3 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 19 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 45 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.
04:233h45
Cardiff08:08Runcorn
£341One-way
0 changes
04:253h43
Cardiff08:08Runcorn
£481One-way
0 changes
03:343h48
Cardiff07:22Runcorn
£541One-way
0 changes
04:243h44
Cardiff08:08Runcorn
£541One-way
0 changes
04:424h40
Cardiff09:22Runcorn
£541One-way
0 changes
04:493h19
Cardiff08:08Runcorn
£541One-way
0 changes
05:433h39
Cardiff09:22Runcorn
£611One-way
0 changes
04:253h43
Cardiff08:08Runcorn
£481One-way
0 changes
04:243h44
Cardiff08:08Runcorn
£541One-way
0 changes
04:233h45
Cardiff08:08Runcorn
£341One-way
0 changes
Live departures
Cardiff to Runcorn train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Runcorn trains for today, Friday 7 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 00:57
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03:15 Cardiff | 4h07 | 07:22 Runcorn | 0 changesdirect | |
| 03:16 Cardiff | 4h06 | 07:22 Runcorn | 0 changesdirect | |
| 03:30 Cardiff | 3h52 | 07:22 Runcorn | 0 changesdirect | |
| 03:32 Cardiff | 3h50 | 07:22 Runcorn | 0 changesdirect | |
| 04:19 Cardiff | 3h49 | 08:08 Runcorn | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Runcorn by train
Compare train 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.
Sat
08 Nov
08 Nov
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09 Nov
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Runcorn
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Runcorn run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £54 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:21, the last at 21:11. The fastest train covers the 209 km distance in 3h 12m.
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
Distance 209 km |
Average train duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price £54 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 12m |
First train 04:21 |
Last train 21:11 |
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
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country from Cardiff to Runcorn trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Runcorn from £54. 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 Duration
3h 12m
Cheapest Price
£34
Transport for Wales frequency
3 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 Duration
4h 40m
Cheapest Price
£54
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cross Country frequency
10 a day
FAQs: Cardiff to Runcorn train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Runcorn 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 Runcorn, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Spending one to two days in Runcorn is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Runcorn Hill Park, Norton Priory Museum, and the Mersey Gateway Bridge.
The train distance from Cardiff to Runcorn is 209 km.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Runcorn 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 Runcorn covers a distance of 209 km and takes approximately 3h 12m. Trains run 4 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Runcorn leaves at 4:21.
The last train from Cardiff to Runcorn departs at 21:11.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Runcorn can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £54, while the average price tends to be around £62.
Trains from Cardiff to Runcorn run approximately 4 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Runcorn.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Runcorn is by train, costing approximately £54.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Runcorn.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Runcorn is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Runcorn station (RUN).
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Runcorn.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Runcorn.
To travel from Cardiff to Runcorn, you can take a train.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Runcorn
Cardiff
Runcorn
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cathays. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cathays for your trip from Cardiff to Runcorn.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike 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
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATM
TaxisAccessibility
WCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike 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)
The major train station for arrivals in Runcorn is Runcorn. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Runcorn for your journey to Runcorn from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 19:30 Saturday 06:30 - 19:30 Sunday 08:45 - 19:30
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park 3 (Platform 2)
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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 National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Adjacent to Car Park 1 (Multi-Story)
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Runcorn
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off in the turning circle adjacent to the station entrance.
Amenities at train station
ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:00 - 12:00 Saturday 08:00 - 13:15 Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Chester) via a ramp with handrails and a steep gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Manchester) via a ramp with handrails and a steep gradient. Access between both platforms is via a footbridge.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible public telephones: Located outside the ticket office on the wall
- 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: 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 Runcorn East
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stops are From the ticket office walk up the steps apx 50m to main road. or Take footbridge by station entrance, walk apx 75m.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: The bus stops on Barnfield Avenue nearest to the station car park. Towards Manchester, wait at the bus stop on the same side of the road as the car park. Towards Chester, wait at the bus stop on the opposite side of the road as the car park.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Runcorn
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Runcorn and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Runcorn
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