- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales's national art museum with paintings, sculpture and natural history displays. A strong choice for a broad cultural visit in central Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chester to Wales
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Sept
Cheapest price on 14 Sept
£68
Average ticket price on 14 Sept
£69
Fastest journey on 14 Sept
2 h 40 m
Average journey duration on 14 Sept
2 h 51 m
Trains on 14 Sept
10
Distance
108 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chester to Wales is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chester to Wales will cost around £69 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £68.
Fast trains
On Mon 14 Sept, we found 10 trains from Chester to Wales, including 9 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 108 km distance in an average of 2 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 40 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 54 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.
6:182h58Chester9:16Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes- 7:162h40Chester9:56Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
- 8:202h53Chester11:13Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
- 10:202h53Chester13:13Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
- 12:252h53Chester15:18Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
- 7:162h40Chester9:56Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
- 8:202h53Chester11:13Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
- 10:202h53Chester13:13Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
- 12:252h53Chester15:18Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
- 18:292h54Chester21:23Cardiff Central£681One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Chester to Wales
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chester to Wales among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £15 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 42m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £15, while a train costs an average of £42.
Distance: 108 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£42 Average Price | £15 Average Price Cheapest | £40 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 42m Average total duration Fastest 2h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chester to Wales is a coach with an average price of £15.
This is compared to other travel options from Chester to Wales:
A coach is £27 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chester to Wales costing on average £42.
The fastest way to travel from Chester to Wales is by train with an average journey time of 2h 12m.
Other travel options to Wales take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chester and Wales including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £42 compared to roughly £40 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-1.94. The journey takes 2h 12m versus 2h 3m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Chester to Wales train times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Wales trains for tomorrow, Monday 14 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:18 Chester | 2h58 | 9:16 Cardiff Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:16 Chester | 2h40 | 9:56 Cardiff Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:20 Chester | 2h53 | 11:13 Cardiff Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:20 Chester | 2h53 | 13:13 Cardiff Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:25 Chester | 2h53 | 15:18 Cardiff Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:22 Chester | 2h55 | 17:17 Cardiff Central | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chester to Wales 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.
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14 Sept
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Why should you book Chester to Wales trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Chester to Wales.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Wales.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Chester to 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chester to Wales.
Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chester to Wales.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chester to Wales
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chester to Wales run on average 14 times per day, taking around 2h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £42 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 06:52, the last at 21:33. The fastest train covers the 108 km distance in 2h 56m.
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 £14
Distance 108 km |
Average train duration 2h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price £42 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 2h 56m |
First train 6:52 |
Last train 21:33 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 £14
Train companies: Northern Rail, Transport for Wales from Chester to Wales trainsNorthern Rail, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Chester and Wales from £14. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
3h 55m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£66
Northern Rail frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£68
Transport for Wales frequency
8 a day
Complete guide to Wales
Things to do in Wales
Discover the best of Wales — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Wales trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum of Welsh historic buildings, crafts and daily life in St Fagans. Ideal for understanding Welsh culture through reconstructed sites.
- Recommended
The Pierhead
Waterfront museum covering Cardiff's docklands history, migration and industry. A useful stop for understanding the city's multicultural past.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Lively waterfront area with shops, public spaces, walking routes and bay views. A popular place for a relaxed urban stroll in Cardiff.
- Recommended
Llandudno Promenade
Historic promenade beneath Llandudno's limestone headland. Come for sea views, the pier, easy walks and classic resort architecture.
- Recommended
Cardiff Arcades
Victorian shopping arcades with independent shops, elegant details and covered walkways. A charming central Cardiff area to explore on foot.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Cawl is a traditional Welsh broth or stew of lamb or beef with leeks, potatoes and root vegetables, long valued as a hearty farmhouse meal.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Welsh rarebit is hot savoury cheese sauce, often with ale and mustard, grilled on toast. It is a classic pub and supper dish across Wales.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
Glamorgan sausage is a traditional meat-free Welsh sausage made with Caerphilly cheese, leeks and breadcrumbs, especially associated with south Wales.
Heaneys
Stylish Cardiff dining room serving modern Welsh tasting menus with seasonal local produce in a refined but relaxed setting.
Sosban
Established Menai Bridge restaurant focused on local Welsh ingredients and seafood, with polished cooking and waterside charm nearby.
Johns Fish Market
Well-known Swansea market stall and café celebrated for fresh Welsh seafood, especially cockles and laverbread, in a casual setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Accommodation and dining are often cheaper than London, but tourist areas and peak seasons raise hotel, food and rail costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food, cafés or pub specials.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4.20 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated.
Newport Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.75
- Day pass
- £4.60
To the city centre
Newport Bus Station -> Newport city centre
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Adult single and day tickets can be bought contactlessly on Newport Bus services. Multi-day tickets are sold in the Newport Bus app.
- If you need other operators in South East Wales, Newport Bus states that a Network Rider is required rather than its own operator-only tickets.
FAQs: Chester to Wales train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester to Wales 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 Wales, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Chester to Wales can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £42, while the average price tends to be around £42.
The train journey from Chester to Wales covers a distance of 108 km and takes approximately 2h 56m. Trains run 14 per day.
The train distance from Chester to Wales is 108 km.
The first train from Chester to Wales leaves at 6:52.
The last train from Chester to Wales departs at 21:33.
Trains from Chester to Wales run approximately 14 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chester to Wales.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chester and Wales. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
To get from Chester to Wales, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Chester to Wales.
The train station in Chester that goes to Wales is Chester station (CTR), and it arrives at Kiveton Bridge (KIV).
The cheapest way to get from Chester to Wales is by coach, costing approximately £14.
Booking trains from Chester to Wales in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chester to Wales offers scenic views, including picturesque countryside, charming villages, and striking landscapes, particularly as you approach the Welsh border and enter the lush valleys and rolling hills of North Wales.
A day trip from Chester to Wales is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 56m. Trains run 18 times per day, covering a distance of 108 km.
In Wales, you can explore the medieval Conwy Castle, enjoy Cardiff's vibrant arts scene at the Wales Millennium Centre, and visit the charming town of Tenby with its picturesque harbour. Experience cultural heritage at St Fagans National Museum of History or take a scenic train ride on the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. Discover the stunning landscapes of Snowdonia National Park, the historic Cardiff Castle, and the rugged coastline of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Don't miss Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the rolling hills of Brecon Beacons National Park.
To experience the highlights of Wales, a stay of around 5 to 7 days is recommended. This allows for visits to key attractions such as Snowdonia National Park, Cardiff Castle, and the Pembrokeshire Coast.
Yes, you can take the train from Chester to Wales.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chester and Wales
Most Chester to Wales trains use the Chester to Kiveton Bridge station pair. Use this guide to compare Chester and Wales train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chester
Arrival train stations in Wales
Which Chester station do trains to Wales leave from?
Trains from Chester to Wales leave from Chester. The station is 1 km from Chester city centre at Chester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · £4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, 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 Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, 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.
Most popular train connections from Chester
More options for your journey from Chester to Wales
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Wales and Chester
Most popular train connections to Wales
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