- Must visit
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
Main city museum covering Sunderland’s history, archaeology, and changing exhibitions. A practical introduction to the city and region.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Sunderland
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £304
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £339
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 5 h 35 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 5 h 52 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 24
- Distance
- 399 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Sunderland is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Sunderland will cost around £339 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £304.
Fast trains
To travel from Cardiff to Sunderland you need to make at least 3 changes.
18:45 11h41 Cardiff 6:26 Sunderland £304 1 One-way 4 changes6:40 6h43 Cardiff 13:23 Sunderland £338 1 One-way 2 changes7:45 6h14 Cardiff 13:59 Sunderland £338 1 One-way 2 changes8:45 6h38 Cardiff 15:23 Sunderland £338 1 One-way 2 changes9:45 6h14 Cardiff 15:59 Sunderland £338 1 One-way 2 changes
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6:24 5h35 Cardiff 11:59 Sunderland £344 1 One-way 3 changes10:19 5h40 Cardiff 15:59 Sunderland £344 1 One-way 3 changes14:18 5h46 Cardiff 20:04 Sunderland £344 1 One-way 3 changes11:50 6h09 Cardiff 17:59 Sunderland £344 1 One-way 3 changes7:49 6h10 Cardiff 13:59 Sunderland £344 1 One-way 3 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Sunderland
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Sunderland run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £50 but you can travel from only £25 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 17:56. The fastest train covers the 399 km distance in 5h 27m.
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 399 km |
Average train duration 5h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £50 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 27m |
First train 5:07 |
Last train 17:56 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Sunderland trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Sunderland.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Sunderland can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £50, while the average price tends to be around £157.
The train journey from Cardiff to Sunderland covers a distance of 399 km and takes approximately 5h 27m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Sunderland is 399 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Sunderland leaves at 5:07.
The last train from Cardiff to Sunderland departs at 17:56.
Trains from Cardiff to Sunderland run approximately 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Sunderland.
Live departures
Cardiff to Sunderland train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Sunderland trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 11:45 Cardiff | 6h22 | 18:07 Sunderland | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Sunderland trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Cardiff to Sunderland.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Sunderland.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Sunderland.
- 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Sunderland.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Sunderland.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Sunderland.
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Sunderland trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Sunderland 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 CrossCountry Duration
5h 27m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£71
CrossCountry frequency
5 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
6h 5m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£50
Transport for Wales frequency
1 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Sunderland
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Sunderland.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Sunderland.
Complete guide to Sunderland
Things to do in Sunderland
Discover the best of Sunderland — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sunderland trip today.
- Must visit
National Glass Centre
Glass-focused museum with exhibitions, demonstrations, and studio activity reflecting Sunderland’s industrial heritage and creative scene.
- Recommended
North East Land, Sea and Air Museums
Volunteer-run museum at the restored station featuring vintage trams, buses, and transport displays. Best for engineering and family visits.
- Must visit
Roker Beach
Long sandy seafront with promenade, cafés nearby, and broad views. Popular for walking, sea air, and classic coastal Sunderland scenes.
- Recommended
Seaburn
Seaside area north of Roker with beach, promenade, and open views. A relaxed place for walks and a local feel beyond the city centre.
- Recommended
Mowbray Park
Historic public park beside the museum and winter gardens. It offers flower beds, monuments, and a central green break in the city.
- Gluten-free
Panackelty
Panackelty is a North East comfort dish of layered potatoes, onions and corned beef or bacon, slowly baked. It is a long-standing Wearside home staple.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pease Pudding
Pease pudding is a thick split-pea savoury paste, often served with ham or stotties. It is a classic staple across Sunderland and the wider North East.
Stottie Cake
Stottie cake is a dense round North East bread, usually split and filled with ham and pease pudding. It is strongly associated with local working-class food culture.
Latimer's Seafood Deli and Cafe
Popular seafront seafood restaurant at Roker serving fish, shellfish and classic British dishes in a relaxed modern setting.
Angelo's Ristorante
Well-known city centre Italian restaurant with pizzas, pasta and grilled dishes. Lively, dependable and good for casual meals.
Spice Empire
Established Indian restaurant known for curries, tandoori dishes and friendly service. Comfortable setting close to the city centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Generally cheaper than London and many UK tourist cities, with lower hotel rates, modest dining prices and reasonably priced local transport.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up taxi fares; cafés usually do not expect tips.
Pop
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Sunderland Station -> Park Lane Interchange, Sunderland
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment is available on Go North East and Stagecoach buses, but Nexus states the £2.50 single and £5.00 day cap apply when using Pop Pay As You Go on Metro.
- Sunderland Station is about 500 metres from central Sunderland, and Park Lane Interchange is a short walk for onward buses across the city.
Plan your visit to Sunderland
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Sunderland.
The train journey from Cardiff to Sunderland offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of rolling countryside, charming towns, and glimpses of the coastline, particularly as you travel through areas in Wales and northern England.
FAQs: Cardiff to Sunderland train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Sunderland 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 Sunderland, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Sunderland in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Sunderland.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Sunderland
Most Cardiff to Sunderland trains use the Cardiff Central to Sunderland station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Sunderland 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 Sunderland
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 Sunderland station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Sunderland arrive at Sunderland. Sunderland is from Sunderland city centre.
SunderlandSunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP
City-centre transport
Getting to Sunderland from Sunderland city centre
Onward travel informationBusline 0871 200 2233
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off in Fawcett Street, near to the Travel Centre entrance in Athenaeum Street, outside Wilkinsons.
MetroTyne and Wear metro station close to the station. 0191 203 3333
Sunderland train station facilities and services
Sunderland has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Sunderland.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sunderland.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sunderland: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Sunderland: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sunderland: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Lifts to all platforms for disabled passengers from the North end of the station. Open for all services, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Located on the North Concourse and accepts cash and cards, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Cardiff to Sunderland
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Sunderland, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Sunderland is Cardiff Central, and it arrives at Sunderland.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Sunderland
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sunderland and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Sunderland
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