- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Carlisle to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct
Cheapest price on 13 Oct
£103
Average ticket price on 13 Oct
£104
Fastest journey on 13 Oct
4 h 37 m
Average journey duration on 13 Oct
5 h 6 m
Trains on 13 Oct
2
Distance
380 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Carlisle to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carlisle to Cardiff will cost around £104 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £103.
Fast trains
On Tue 13 Oct, we found 2 trains from Carlisle to Cardiff, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 380 km distance in an average of 5 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 37 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 34 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.
10:074h37Carlisle14:44Cardiff£1031One-way0 changes- 9:105h34Carlisle14:44Cardiff£1051One-way0 changes
- 10:074h37Carlisle14:44Cardiff£1031One-way0 changes
- 9:105h34Carlisle14:44Cardiff£1051One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Carlisle to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Carlisle to Cardiff run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £48 but you can travel from only £28 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 20:07. The fastest train covers the 380 km distance in 4h 22m.
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 £28
Distance 380 km |
Average train duration 4h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £48 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 4h 22m |
First train 4:08 |
Last train 20:07 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 £28
Live departures
Carlisle to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to Cardiff trains for today, Monday 12 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 12:06 Carlisle | 4h38 | 16:44 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 13:12 Carlisle | 4h29 | 17:41 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 14:07 Carlisle | 4h38 | 18:45 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 14:55 Carlisle | 4h48 | 19:43 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 16:07 Carlisle | 4h44 | 20:51 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 17:11 Carlisle | 4h41 | 21:52 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 18:08 Carlisle | 4h52 | 23:00 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 18:46 Carlisle | 5h32 | 0:18 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 20:08 Carlisle | 11h17 | 7:25 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 20:08 Carlisle | 11h17 | 7:25 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 21:25 Carlisle | 10h18 | 7:43 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| Tuesday 13 October | |||||
| 9:10 Carlisle | 5h34 | 14:44 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:07 Carlisle | 4h37 | 14:44 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Carlisle to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales operates all trains services from Carlisle to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- 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 Carlisle to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Cardiff.
Train companies: Transport for Wales from Carlisle to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Carlisle and Cardiff from £28. 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 Transport for Wales Duration
4h 22m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£48
Transport for Wales frequency
16 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 Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum of Welsh life with historic buildings, crafts, gardens and rural traditions relocated to spacious grounds west of the city.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Museum in a Victorian library celebrating Cardiff’s story through interactive displays, local history and a well-presented city timeline.
- Must visit
Cardiff Arcades
Historic shopping arcades in the city centre, prized for Victorian and Edwardian architecture, independent shops and an easy walking atmosphere.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central parkland behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, gardens, woodland paths and access to key civic sights.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with public art, broad promenades, modern landmarks and easy walks around the former dock basin.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A hearty Welsh broth of lamb or beef with leeks, potatoes and root vegetables. It is a classic national dish closely tied to Welsh home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Welsh rarebit
Traditional Welsh rarebit is toasted bread topped with a savoury cheese, ale and mustard sauce. It is a beloved pub and supper dish across Wales.
- Vegetarian
Bara brith
A sweet Welsh tea loaf made with dried fruit and mixed spice, usually sliced and spread with butter. It is a staple in cafés and homes.
Heaneys
Elegant dining room known for refined modern British cooking and polished service in central Cardiff.
Asador 44
Smart restaurant focused on local produce, seafood and modern British plates with a relaxed but polished atmosphere.
The Potted Pig
Stylish bistro and bar serving seasonal Welsh and British dishes, cocktails and brunch in a lively city-centre setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK city. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transport and casual meals stay fairly manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually small change or rounding up.
Cardiff Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.35
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city centre
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless payment on board, including tap on and tap off for adult single and day tickets.
- Cardiff Central is within easy walking distance of the main city centre streets, so walking is often quickest for central destinations.
Best day trips from Cardiff by train
The most popular day trips by train from Cardiff are Bristol, Bath, Swansea, Newport and Cheltenham. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cardiff on Omio.
Day trip from Cardiff to Bristol by train
Why visit Bristol for the day?
Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.
How to get from Cardiff to Bristol by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 39m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Bath by train
Why visit Bath for the day?
Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.
How to get from Cardiff to Bath by train?
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:13, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 58 km distance in 54m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Swansea by train
Why visit Swansea for the day?
Swansea is known for its sweeping bay, maritime past and connection to Dylan Thomas. The city mixes a practical urban centre with a waterfront feel and quick access to the Gower coast.
How to get from Cardiff to Swansea by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 50m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Newport by train
Why visit Newport for the day?
Newport is a South Wales city known for its industrial past, the Transporter Bridge and riverside setting on the Usk. Regenerated shopping areas and historic sites give it a practical mix of modern city life and local heritage.
How to get from Cardiff to Newport by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 17 km distance in 10m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Cheltenham by train
Why visit Cheltenham for the day?
Cheltenham is a Regency spa town known for elegant architecture, garden squares and a lively festival calendar. It is especially associated with jump racing and the Cheltenham Festival, balanced by a refined town-centre atmosphere.
How to get from Cardiff to Cheltenham by train?
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 89 km distance in 1h 0m.
FAQs: Carlisle to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Carlisle to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £48, while the average price tends to be around £72.
The train journey from Carlisle to Cardiff covers a distance of 380 km and takes approximately 4h 22m. Trains run 14 per day.
The train distance from Carlisle to Cardiff is 380 km.
The first train from Carlisle to Cardiff leaves at 4:08.
The last train from Carlisle to Cardiff departs at 20:07.
Trains from Carlisle to Cardiff run approximately 14 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Carlisle to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Carlisle to Cardiff.
There is no night train service from Carlisle to Cardiff.
The train station in Carlisle that goes to Cardiff is Carlisle station (CAR), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
Booking trains from Carlisle to Cardiff in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Carlisle to Cardiff offers a variety of scenic views, including the rolling landscapes of Cumbria, glimpses of the Lake District, and the picturesque countryside of Wales. Passengers can enjoy a mix of natural beauty and charming towns along the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Carlisle to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Carlisle and Cardiff
Most Carlisle to Cardiff trains use the Carlisle to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Carlisle
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Carlisle station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Carlisle to Cardiff leave from Carlisle. The station is 1 km from Carlisle city centre at Carlisle station, Court Square, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1QZ.
CarlisleCarlisle station, Court Square, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1QZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Carlisle from Carlisle city centre
Bus67, 63, 63A, 61, 62, 64 · 5m · £8 · every ~50 min
Carlisle train station facilities and services
Carlisle has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Carlisle.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Carlisle.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carlisle. 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 Carlisle: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Carlisle: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carlisle: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Lifts available to platforms via subway. Alternatively there is a ramped footbridge. Staff are available to assist on request, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are 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.
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.
Most popular train connections from Carlisle
More options for your journey from Carlisle to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Carlisle
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