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The cheapest and fastest trains from Doncaster to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for 30 Nov
Cheapest price
£167
Average price
£167
Fastest journey
5 h
Average duration
5 h
Trains per day
1
Distance
266 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Doncaster to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Doncaster to Cardiff will cost around £167 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £167.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Doncaster for Cardiff every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 266 km distance in an average of 5 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 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.
07:075h00
Doncaster12:07Cardiff
£1671One-way
0 changes
07:075h00
Doncaster12:07Cardiff
£1671One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Doncaster to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Doncaster to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £15, and a train costs an average of £64.
Distance: 266 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
£125 Average Price | £32 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 7m Average total duration Fastest 3h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 2m Average total duration 5h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg 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
Doncaster to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Doncaster to Cardiff trains for today, Saturday 29 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 05:13
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:13 Doncaster | 4h13 | 11:26 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:58 Doncaster | 4h27 | 13:25 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Doncaster to Cardiff 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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30 Nov
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Doncaster to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Doncaster to Cardiff run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £64 but you can travel from only £15 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:12, the last at 20:21. The fastest train covers the 266 km distance in 3h 46m.
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 £15
Distance 266 km |
Average train duration 3h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price £64 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 46m |
First train 04:12 |
Last train 20:21 |
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 £15
Train companies: CrossCountry, first_transpennine_express, Northern Rail (3) from Doncaster to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, first_transpennine_express, Northern Rail (3) trains will get you between Doncaster and Cardiff from £15. 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
3h 49m
Cheapest Price
£68
CrossCountry frequency
3 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
Northern Rail (3)
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 Duration
3h 42m
Cheapest Price
£178
Northern Rail (3) frequency
15 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
first_transpennine_express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 44m
Cheapest Price
£224
first_transpennine_express frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Doncaster to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Doncaster 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.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Cardiff's main attractions, including Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff, and the revitalised Cardiff Bay area.
The train journey from Doncaster to Cardiff offers varied scenery, transitioning from urban landscapes to picturesque countryside views as it passes through regions like the Peak District and the Severn Tunnel, providing a pleasant visual experience for travellers.
A day trip from Doncaster to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 46m. There are 5 trains per day.
In Cardiff, you can enjoy performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city centre, take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay, and have an adventurous day at Cardiff International White Water. Visit Cardiff Market for shopping and dining, discover Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore Cardiff Bay's attractions, enjoy the National Museum Cardiff's collections, and relax in Bute Park.
The cheapest way to get from Doncaster to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £15.
The cost of a train ticket from Doncaster to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £64, while the average price tends to be around £125.
Booking trains from Doncaster to Cardiff in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train distance from Doncaster to Cardiff is 266 km.
The train journey from Doncaster to Cardiff covers a distance of 266 km and takes approximately 3h 46m. Trains run 5 per day.
The last train from Doncaster to Cardiff departs at 20:21.
The train station in Doncaster that goes to Cardiff is Doncaster station (DON), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
There is no night train service from Doncaster to Cardiff.
The first train from Doncaster to Cardiff leaves at 4:12.
Trains from Doncaster to Cardiff run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Doncaster to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Doncaster to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Doncaster to Cardiff.
To get from Doncaster to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Doncaster and Cardiff
Doncaster
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Doncaster is Doncaster. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Doncaster for your trip from Doncaster to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 20:00 Saturday 06:00 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 18:00
Accessibility
- 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 public telephones: Phones are low level but not text
- Accessible taxis: Advance booking not required
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: .
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are adjacent to Platforms 3 and 4. The National key toilets are located on Platforms 3a and 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from the Customer Information Points on Platforms 4 and 8.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located on Platforms 3a and 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from the Customer Information Points on Platforms 4 and 8.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: This station has heated waiting rooms available. Seating is available at an accessible height in the waiting room and on platforms Platform 3 opening hours - 05:00 - 22:30 Platform 4 North Waiting Room opening hours - 05:00 - 01:30 Platform 4 South Waiting Room opening hours - 05:00 - 22:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within car park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Doncaster
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off outside the front of the station and park in the station overflow car park.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cathays. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cathays for your journey to Cardiff from Doncaster.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Ninian Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
Most popular train connections from Doncaster
More options for your journey from Doncaster to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Doncaster
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