- Recommended
Ancient High House
Historic townhouse museum with changing exhibitions on Stafford’s past, period rooms and displays on local people and trade.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Stafford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Stafford run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £40 but you can travel from only £24 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:54, the last at 21:21. The fastest train covers the 164 km distance in 2h 24m.
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 £24
Distance 164 km |
Average train duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price £40 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 24m |
First train 5:54 |
Last train 21:21 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 14 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 £24
Live departures
Cardiff to Stafford train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Stafford trains for today, Monday 19 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4:33 Cardiff | 3h17 | 7:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 5:19 Cardiff | 3h12 | 8:31 Stafford | 2 changes | |
| 5:49 Cardiff | 3h01 | 8:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
 | 6:40 Cardiff | 2h52 | 9:32 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 6:46 Cardiff | 3h03 | 9:49 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 7:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 10:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 7:53 Cardiff | 2h57 | 10:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 8:45 Cardiff | 2h47 | 11:32 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 8:53 Cardiff | 2h57 | 11:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 9:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 12:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 9:53 Cardiff | 2h58 | 12:51 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 10:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 13:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 10:53 Cardiff | 2h57 | 13:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 11:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 14:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 11:53 Cardiff | 2h57 | 14:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 12:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 15:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 12:54 Cardiff | 2h56 | 15:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 13:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 16:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 13:53 Cardiff | 2h56 | 16:49 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 14:45 Cardiff | 2h47 | 17:32 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 14:50 Cardiff | 3h00 | 17:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 15:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 18:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 15:51 Cardiff | 2h59 | 18:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 16:16 Cardiff | 3h06 | 19:22 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 16:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 19:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 16:53 Cardiff | 2h57 | 19:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 17:45 Cardiff | 2h46 | 20:31 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 17:53 Cardiff | 2h57 | 20:50 Stafford | 1 change | |
| 18:23 Cardiff | 3h00 | 21:23 Stafford | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Stafford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Stafford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Stafford.
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 Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Stafford.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Stafford.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Stafford trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Stafford from £24. 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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£40
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
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 Transport for Wales Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£83
Transport for Wales frequency
2 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
Complete guide to Stafford
Things to do in Stafford
Discover the best of Stafford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stafford trip today.
- Recommended
Shire Hall Gallery
Town-centre art space in the Shire Hall showing temporary exhibitions, contemporary work and community-focused displays.
Lock House Museum
Small heritage museum in a restored lock cottage, explaining the county’s waterways through artefacts, models and canal history.
- Recommended
Victoria Park
Riverside park with open lawns, sports facilities, family space and a pleasant walk close to the centre.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic market square framed by civic buildings and shops, often used for events and an easy base for exploring Stafford.
- Recommended
Stafford Castle Meadows
Open green space beside the castle, good for short walks and views towards the ruins and surrounding countryside.
Staffordshire Oatcake with Cheese and Bacon
A savoury Staffordshire oatcake filled with melted cheese and bacon. It is a local staple from the Potteries and widely eaten across Staffordshire.
Staffordshire Oatcake
A plain Staffordshire oatcake served with butter or cheese. This soft oat pancake is one of the county’s most recognisable traditional foods.
- Vegetarian
Staffordshire Tea Loaf
A rich fruit loaf made with tea-soaked dried fruit and spices, then sliced and spread with butter. It is a long-standing tea-time favourite in Staffordshire.
Joxer Brasserie
Popular Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service. Lively yet comfortable for casual lunches and dinners.
The Dog House
Stylish restaurant in Stafford town centre serving modern British dishes, steaks and grills in a relaxed, polished setting.
The Soup Kitchen
Traditional pub and dining room known for British classics, cask ales and a historic atmosphere near Stafford town centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in London, while rail travel and central pub meals can still add up for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up in taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
MyStaffs
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £8.50
To the city centre
Stafford Railway Station -> Stafford Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10–15 min
- The Knot day ticket gives unlimited same-day travel on most Staffordshire bus operators for £8.50. Check your operator is included before you buy.
- Stafford Railway Station has a taxi rank, and National Rail states the town centre is about a 10–15 min walk away.
Best day trips from Stafford by train
The most popular day trips by train from Stafford are Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Stoke-on-Trent and Wolverhampton. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Stafford on Omio.
Day trip from Stafford to Birmingham by train
Why visit Birmingham for the day?
Birmingham is known for its industrial past, canal network and diverse food scene. It combines major shopping and cultural landmarks with lively neighbourhoods shaped by manufacturing, music and modern city life.
How to get from Stafford to Birmingham by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:31, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 30m.
Day trip from Stafford to Manchester by train
Why visit Manchester for the day?
Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, influential music and deep football culture. Red-brick canalside areas, major museums and lively nightlife give it an energetic northern character.
How to get from Stafford to Manchester by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 76 km distance in 51m.
Day trip from Stafford to Liverpool by train
Why visit Liverpool for the day?
Liverpool is known for The Beatles, football and a waterfront shaped by its maritime past. Its grand docks, museums and lively city centre give it a proud, creative character.
How to get from Stafford to Liverpool by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 89 km distance in 55m.
Day trip from Stafford to Stoke-on-Trent by train
Why visit Stoke-on-Trent for the day?
Stoke-on-Trent is a Staffordshire city known as The Potteries for its long ceramics heritage. Its six-town layout, bottle kilns and pottery museums give it a practical, industrial character.
How to get from Stafford to Stoke-on-Trent by train?
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:19. The fastest train covers the 23 km distance in 15m.
Day trip from Stafford to Wolverhampton by train
Why visit Wolverhampton for the day?
Wolverhampton is a West Midlands city known for its industrial heritage, football culture and diverse communities. Historic buildings, busy markets and venues such as the Grand Theatre give it a direct, urban character.
How to get from Stafford to Wolverhampton by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:12, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 13m.
FAQs: Cardiff to Stafford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Stafford 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 Stafford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Stafford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £40, while the average price tends to be around £83.
The train journey from Cardiff to Stafford covers a distance of 164 km and takes approximately 2h 24m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Stafford is 164 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Stafford leaves at 5:54.
The last train from Cardiff to Stafford departs at 21:21.
Trains from Cardiff to Stafford run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Stafford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Stafford.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Stafford.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Stafford is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Stafford station (STA).
Booking trains from Cardiff to Stafford 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 Stafford offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. As you leave Cardiff, you pass through the picturesque landscapes of South Wales, with views of rolling hills and quaint villages. Approaching Stafford, the landscape becomes more pastoral, featuring open fields and charming countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Stafford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Stafford
Most Cardiff to Stafford trains use the Cardiff Central to Stafford station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Stafford 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 Stafford
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 Stafford station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Stafford arrive at Stafford. Stafford is from Stafford city centre.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.
Stafford train station facilities and services
Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stafford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stafford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stafford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stafford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: 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.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Stafford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Stafford and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Stafford
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