- 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 Lancaster to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 31 Aug
Cheapest price on 31 Aug
£55
Average ticket price on 31 Aug
£67
Fastest journey on 31 Aug
4 h 26 m
Average journey duration on 31 Aug
4 h 26 m
Trains on 31 Aug
2
Distance
289 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lancaster to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lancaster to Cardiff will cost around £67 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £55.
Fast trains
On Mon 31 Aug, we found 2 trains from Lancaster to Cardiff, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 289 km distance in an average of 4 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 26 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 26 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.
7:594h26Lancaster12:25Cardiff£551One-way0 changes- 8:594h26Lancaster13:25Cardiff£791One-way0 changes
- 8:594h26Lancaster13:25Cardiff£791One-way0 changes
- 7:594h26Lancaster12:25Cardiff£551One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Lancaster to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lancaster to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £47 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 19m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £47, while a train costs an average of £50.
Distance: 289 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£50 Average Price | £47 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 3h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 28m Average total duration 6h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Lancaster to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Lancaster to Cardiff trains for today, Sunday 30 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W33106+ G38909+ W84902 | Delayed 10:54 10:48Lancaster station (LAN) | 4h40 | 15:28 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 changes | |
| W33138+G38848 | Delayed 12:44 13:43Lancaster station (LAN) | 4h03 | 17:46 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
G38854+ G89872 | Delayed 14:34 13:49Lancaster station (LAN) | 5h05 | 18:54 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| W33314+G38854 | On time 14:43 Lancaster station (LAN) | 4h11 | 18:54 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| W33275+G38912 | On time 15:43 Lancaster station (LAN) | 4h01 | 19:44 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| W33163+G38857 | On time 16:43 Lancaster station (LAN) | 4h06 | 20:49 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| W33140+G38937 | On time 17:40 Lancaster station (LAN) | 4h06 | 21:46 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| W33304+G38860 | On time 18:45 Lancaster station (LAN) | 4h03 | 22:48 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| W33292+G38901 | On time 19:45 Lancaster station (LAN) | 4h32 | 0:17 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| Monday 31 August | |||||
| 7:59 Lancaster | 4h26 | 12:25 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:59 Lancaster | 4h26 | 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 Lancaster to Cardiff by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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.
Mon
31 Aug
31 Aug
Tue
01 Sept
01 Sept
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02 Sept
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Thu
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03 Sept
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06 Sept
06 Sept
Why should you book Lancaster to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Lancaster to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lancaster to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Lancaster to Cardiff.
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lancaster to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Lancaster to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Lancaster to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lancaster to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Lancaster to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £32 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 289 km distance in 3h 55m.
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 289 km |
Average train duration 3h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price £32 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 55m |
First train 4:30 |
Last train 21:35 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales from Lancaster to Cardiff trainsAvanti West Coast, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Lancaster and Cardiff from £32. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
4h 26m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£32
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
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 Transport for Wales Duration
3h 55m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£53
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.
FAQs: Lancaster to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £32, while the average price tends to be around £50.
The train journey from Lancaster to Cardiff covers a distance of 289 km and takes approximately 3h 55m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Lancaster to Cardiff is 289 km.
The first train from Lancaster to Cardiff leaves at 4:30.
The last train from Lancaster to Cardiff departs at 21:35.
Trains from Lancaster to Cardiff run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Lancaster to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lancaster to Cardiff.
To get from Lancaster to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Lancaster to Cardiff.
The train station in Lancaster that goes to Cardiff is Lancaster station (LAN), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Lancaster to Cardiff is by train, costing approximately £32.
Booking trains from Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Cardiff offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Welsh countryside and along parts of the English Lake District, providing passengers with a visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Lancaster to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 55m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 289 km.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Lancaster to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Lancaster and Cardiff
Most Lancaster to Cardiff trains use the Lancaster to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Lancaster and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lancaster
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Lancaster station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Lancaster to Cardiff leave from Lancaster. The station is 3 km from Lancaster city centre at Lancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NW.
LancasterLancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NW
City-centre transport
Getting to Lancaster from Lancaster city centre
Lancaster is 2 km from Lancaster city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthwest Chief · 65h 2m · £843
Pennsylvanian · 17h 47m · £422
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 65h 11m · £740
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 75h 46m · £947
BusGreyhound US1210 · 69h 20m · £497
Lancaster train station facilities and services
Lancaster has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lancaster.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lancaster. 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 Lancaster: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lancaster: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lancaster: 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 to All Platforms, accessible via taking the right hand entrance to the over bridge from the ticket office, 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.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · £2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, 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 Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, 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.
Most popular train connections from Lancaster
More options for your journey from Lancaster to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Lancaster
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