- Must visit
National Railway Museum
A major railway museum with historic locomotives, royal carriages and engineering exhibits. An easy choice for families and transport fans.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to York
Showing times and prices for 23 Aug
Cheapest price
£48
Average price
£82
Fastest journey
4 h 48 m
Average duration
5 h 34 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
310 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to York is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to York will cost around £82 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £48.
Fast trains
To travel from Cardiff to York you need to make at least one change.
G38941+
C00924+
G892168:426h31Cardiff Central (CDF)15:13York station (YRK)£481One-way2 changes- G38965+G15805+C317329:396h33Cardiff Central (CDF)16:12York station (YRK)£481One-way2 changes
- G39001+TP066600 · G1587518:5310h00Cardiff Central (CDF)4:53York station (YRK)£581One-way2 changes
- G39001+N59724+G8926218:537h03Cardiff Central (CDF)1:56York station (YRK)£721One-way2 changes
- G38993+G16236+C3173716:416h27Cardiff Central (CDF)23:08York station (YRK)£721One-way2 changes
W29776+
C001659:354h48Cardiff Central (CDF)14:23York station (YRK)£1221One-way1 change- G01071+Y6196810:304h55Cardiff Central (CDF)15:25York station (YRK)£1221One-way1 change
- G01066+G395888:235h10Cardiff Central (CDF)13:33York station (YRK)£1221One-way1 change
- G38993+G16236+C3173716:416h27Cardiff Central (CDF)23:08York station (YRK)£721One-way2 changes
- G38941+C00924+G892168:426h31Cardiff Central (CDF)15:13York station (YRK)£481One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to York
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to York among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £9, and a train costs an average of £33.
Distance: 310 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£48 Average Price | £20 Average Price Cheapest |
5h 7m Average total duration Fastest 4h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 56m Average total duration 7h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cardiff to York train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to York trains for today, Saturday 22 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G38946+G89210+G15921 | On time 6:43 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h27 | 13:10 York station (YRK) | 2 changes | |
| W35165+G01059 | On time 6:48 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h34 | 11:22 York station (YRK) | 1 change | |
| C42288+G01061 | On time 7:50 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h33 | 12:23 York station (YRK) | 1 change | |
| G38948+G89215+C01248 | On time 7:53 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h40 | 14:33 York station (YRK) | 2 changes | |
| W35174+G01065 | On time 8:51 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h32 | 13:23 York station (YRK) | 1 change | |
| G00892 · G01068 | On time 9:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h37 | 14:22 York station (YRK) | 1 change | |
| G00942 · G01070 | On time 10:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h37 | 15:22 York station (YRK) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to York 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
23 Aug
23 Aug
Mon
24 Aug
24 Aug
Tue
25 Aug
25 Aug
Wed
26 Aug
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27 Aug
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29 Aug
29 Aug
Why should you book Cardiff to York trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Cross Country, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to York.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to York.
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, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to York.
- 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 York.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to York.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to York.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to York
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to York run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £33 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:34, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 310 km distance in 4h 35m.
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 £9
Distance 310 km |
Average train duration 4h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price £33 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 35m |
First train 2:34 |
Last train 21:35 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 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 £9
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Cardiff to York trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and York from £9. 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
4h 35m
Cheapest Price
£33
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 Duration
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
£36
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 25m
Cheapest Price
£252
Cross Country frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to York
Things to do in York
Discover the best of York — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect York trip today.
- Must visit
JORVIK Viking Centre
An immersive museum street with recreated shops, period rooms and social history exhibits that bring everyday York life to life.
- Recommended
Yorkshire Museum
A broad city museum in riverside gardens, covering archaeology, Roman York, medieval objects and changing local life.
- Must visit
The Shambles
A narrow medieval street with overhanging timber buildings, independent shops and one of York’s most recognisable scenes.
- Recommended
Museum Gardens
Peaceful public gardens beside museum buildings and abbey ruins, ideal for a central stroll, picnics and riverside breaks.
- Recommended
Stonegate
A handsome Georgian street leading to the Minster, known for boutiques, facades and a classic approach through the old city.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
York Peppermint Pattie
A famous York sweet: dark chocolate-coated peppermint fondant, made in the city since the 20th century and strongly associated with York’s confectionery heritage.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Tea Loaf
Traditional Yorkshire tea loaf made with dried fruit and tea, often served sliced with butter. A classic regional bake long linked with teatime in York and Yorkshire.
Yorkshire Pudding
A broad, crisp batter pudding served with roast beef and gravy. It is one of Yorkshire’s best-known traditional foods and a staple in York pubs and Sunday roasts.
Legacy at The Grand
Refined British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting inside The Grand. A strong choice for a special meal in central York.
Rustique
Popular modern British restaurant focused on local produce, seasonal cooking and a relaxed bistro feel near the city walls.
Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms
Well-known traditional tearoom serving afternoon tea, cakes and light lunches in a classic Edwardian-style setting popular with visitors and locals.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller northern cities, but usually below London. Walking helps keep local transport costs low.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
York Railway Station -> York Minster, York
- Distance
- 0.9 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Tap On Tap Off with contactless works on First Bus services in York and caps adult travel at the day ticket price.
- York city buses are run by several operators, so check whether your ticket is operator-specific before you board.
FAQs: Cardiff to York train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to York 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 York, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to York can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £33, while the average price tends to be around £48.
The train journey from Cardiff to York covers a distance of 310 km and takes approximately 4h 35m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to York is 310 km.
The first train from Cardiff to York leaves at 2:34.
The last train from Cardiff to York departs at 21:35.
Trains from Cardiff to York run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to York.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and York. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To get from Cardiff to York, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to York.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to York is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at York station (YRK).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to York is by coach, costing approximately £9.
Booking trains from Cardiff to York 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 York offers a variety of scenic views, including the rolling hills of the Welsh countryside, the picturesque landscapes of the Midlands, and glimpses of historic towns along the route, providing a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Cardiff to York is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 35m. However, there are 8 train services available per day, covering a distance of 310 km.
In York, you can explore the York Castle Museum to learn about its social history, walk along the York City Walls for scenic views, and visit the York Art Gallery for a diverse collection of art. Enjoy a boat tour on the River Ouse or a ghost tour through the city's haunted streets. Notable sights include York Minster, The Shambles, Clifford's Tower, Jorvik Viking Centre, and the National Railway Museum, each offering unique insights into York's rich heritage and history.
To fully explore York's historic attractions, museums, and vibrant culture, a stay of 2 to 3 days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to York.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and York
Most Cardiff to York trains use the Cardiff Central to York station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and York 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 York
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.
Ninian ParkNinian Park station, Leckwith Road, Ninian Park, Cardiff, CF11 8AH
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.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
City-centre transport
Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · £0.90 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cathays train station facilities and services
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which York station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to York arrive at York. York is 1 km from York city centre.
YorkYork station, Station Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO24 1AB+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to York from York city centre
BusY12, Y14, 15, X15 · 4m · £3 · every ~4 min
37 · 7m
Cs · 28m · £4 · every ~5 min
York train station facilities and services
York has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at York.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at York. ATMs are available at York.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at York.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at York: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at York: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at York: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: No advance booking is required but it will reduce the waiting time for a wheelchair access Taxi, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible machines are available on the main concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to York
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from York and Cardiff
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