- 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 Chelmsford to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £54
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £56
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 3 h 17 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 3 h 19 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 2
- Distance
- 254 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Cardiff will cost around £56 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £54.
Fast trains
On Mon 02 Nov, we found 2 trains from Chelmsford to Cardiff, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 254 km distance in an average of 3 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 17 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 21 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.
8:55 3h21 Chelmsford 12:16 Cardiff £54 1 One-way 0 changes11:25 3h17 Chelmsford 14:42 Cardiff £57 1 One-way 0 changes
11:25 3h17 Chelmsford 14:42 Cardiff £57 1 One-way 0 changes8:55 3h21 Chelmsford 12:16 Cardiff £54 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £53 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:25. The fastest train covers the 254 km distance in 2h 33m.
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 254 km |
Average train duration 2h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price £53 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 33m |
First train 5:07 |
Last train 21:25 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Chelmsford to Cardiff trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chelmsford to Cardiff.
The cost of a train ticket from Chelmsford to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £53, while the average price tends to be around £61.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Cardiff covers a distance of 254 km and takes approximately 2h 33m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Chelmsford to Cardiff is 254 km.
The first train from Chelmsford to Cardiff leaves at 5:07.
The last train from Chelmsford to Cardiff departs at 21:25.
Trains from Chelmsford to Cardiff run approximately 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Cardiff.
Live departures
Chelmsford to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Cardiff 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 6:55 Chelmsford | 3h34 | 10:29 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 7:55 Chelmsford | 3h32 | 11:27 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 9:31 Chelmsford | 3h02 | 12:33 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 10:31 Chelmsford | 3h03 | 13:34 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 11:31 Chelmsford | 3h02 | 14:33 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 12:31 Chelmsford | 3h09 | 15:40 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 12:59 Chelmsford | 3h13 | 16:12 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 13:31 Chelmsford | 3h02 | 16:33 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 14:31 Chelmsford | 3h10 | 17:41 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 15:31 Chelmsford | 3h03 | 18:34 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 16:31 Chelmsford | 3h05 | 19:36 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 17:31 Chelmsford | 3h03 | 20:34 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 18:31 Chelmsford | 3h03 | 21:34 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 19:31 Chelmsford | 3h05 | 22:36 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 20:31 Chelmsford | 3h05 | 23:36 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 21:59 Chelmsford | 10h07 | 8:06 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Chelmsford to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Chelmsford to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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.
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Chelmsford to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Chelmsford and Cardiff from £53. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 33m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£53
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chelmsford and Cardiff
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Chelmsford to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a night train from Chelmsford to Cardiff.
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.
Plan your visit to Cardiff
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 Cardiff.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Cardiff offers a variety of scenery, including views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque villages, particularly as you pass through the regions of Essex, Wiltshire, and into South Wales.
FAQs: Chelmsford to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford 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.
Booking trains from Chelmsford to Cardiff 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 Chelmsford to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chelmsford and Cardiff
Most Chelmsford to Cardiff trains use the Chelmsford to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chelmsford
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Cardiff leave from Chelmsford. The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: 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: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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: No.
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.
Train stations for Chelmsford to Cardiff
Check train stations information for Chelmsford and Cardiff, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Cardiff is Chelmsford, and it arrives at Cardiff Central.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Chelmsford
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