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The cheapest and fastest trains from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF)
Showing times and prices for 18 Dec
Cheapest price
£92
Average price
£138
Fastest journey
1 h 48 m
Average duration
1 h 50 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
208 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) will cost around £138 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £92.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave London Paddington (PAD) for Cardiff Central (CDF) every day 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 208 km distance in an average of 1 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 48 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 51 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.
P2262109:181h49
London Paddington (PAD)11:07Cardiff Central (CDF)
£921One-way
0 changes
P2261707:121h56
London Paddington (PAD)09:08Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1321One-way
0 changes
P2261908:181h51
London Paddington (PAD)10:09Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1431One-way
0 changes
P2261606:481h51
London Paddington (PAD)08:39Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1431One-way
0 changes
P2261807:481h48
London Paddington (PAD)09:36Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1431One-way
0 changes
P2261807:481h48
London Paddington (PAD)09:36Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1431One-way
0 changes
P2262109:181h49
London Paddington (PAD)11:07Cardiff Central (CDF)
£921One-way
0 changes
P2262008:481h49
London Paddington (PAD)10:37Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1771One-way
0 changes
P2261908:181h51
London Paddington (PAD)10:09Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1431One-way
0 changes
P2261606:481h51
London Paddington (PAD)08:39Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1431One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF)
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £7. For those with little time consider booking a ferry which can get you there in 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £7, and a train costs an average of £31.
Distance: 208 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Ferry |
|---|---|---|
£59 Average Price | £14 Average Price Cheapest | £25 Average Price |
3h 7m Average total duration 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration 3h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 28m Average total duration Fastest 28m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) train times
The table below shows live departures for London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) trains for today, Wednesday 17 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 09:16
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P22621 | On time 09:18 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h49 | 11:07 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22622 | On time 09:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h52 | 11:40 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22623 | On time 10:16 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h54 | 12:10 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22624 | On time 10:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h49 | 12:37 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22625 | On time 11:16 London Paddington (PAD) | 2h00 | 13:16 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22626 | On time 11:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h47 | 13:35 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22627 | On time 12:13 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h55 | 14:08 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22628 | On time 12:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h49 | 14:37 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22629 | On time 13:15 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h54 | 15:09 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22630 | On time 13:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h48 | 15:36 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22631 | On time 14:15 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h51 | 16:06 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22632 | On time 14:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h50 | 16:38 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22633 | On time 15:16 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h53 | 17:09 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22634 | On time 15:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h49 | 17:37 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22635 | On time 16:18 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h47 | 18:05 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22636 | On time 16:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h49 | 18:37 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 18 December | |||||
| P22616 | On time 06:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h51 | 08:39 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22617 | On time 07:12 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h56 | 09:08 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22618 | On time 07:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h48 | 09:36 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22619 | On time 08:18 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h51 | 10:09 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P22620 | On time 08:48 London Paddington (PAD) | 1h49 | 10:37 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF)
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £31 but you can travel from only £7 by coach.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:48, the last at 21:49. The fastest train covers the 208 km distance in 1h 43m.
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 £7
Distance 208 km |
Average train duration 2h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price £31 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 1h 43m |
First train 05:48 |
Last train 21:49 |
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 £7
Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, South Western Railway, first_great_western from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, South Western Railway, first_great_western trains will get you between London Paddington (PAD) and Cardiff Central (CDF) from £7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Rail
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 Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
£35
Great Western Rail frequency
7 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
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
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
South Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 44m
Cheapest Price
£133
first_great_western frequency
50 a day
FAQs: London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) 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 Central (CDF), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The train distance from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) is 208 km.
A day trip from London Paddington to Cardiff Central is feasible as the journey takes 1h 43m, covers 208 km, and trains run 7 times per day.
Booking trains from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cost of a train ticket from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £31, while the average price tends to be around £59.
The train journey from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) covers a distance of 208 km and takes approximately 1h 43m. Trains run 7 per day.
The cheapest way to get from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) is by coach, costing approximately £7.
The train journey from London Paddington to Cardiff Central offers a scenic experience, especially as it passes through the picturesque countryside of the Thames Valley and the rolling landscapes of South Wales. Travellers can enjoy views of historic towns, lush fields, and the River Severn as they approach Cardiff.
The first train from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) leaves at 5:48.
The last train from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) departs at 21:49.
Yes, there is a direct train between London Paddington (PAD) and Cardiff Central (CDF). The service operates 6 times per day, provided by Great Western Rail, first_great_western.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
Trains from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF) run approximately 7 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
To get from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF), you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF).
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in London Paddington (PAD) and Cardiff Central (CDF)
London
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in London is London Paddington. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at London Paddington for your trip from London to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 24/7
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located near the taxi stand beside Platform 11.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent Flower stall Shoe repairer Wide range of shops Mini supermarket Pharmacy Convenience store High street shops Off Licence Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
- Wasabi
- The Beer House
- Barburrito
- Upper Crust
- The Mad Bishop & Bear (Fullers)
- The Pasty Shop
- Burger King
- Pret a Manger
- The Savanna
- Soboro Bakery
- & more
Taxis
- Taxi: The taxi deck is situated above Platform 12 and is accessed via the concourse and platform 12, which has escalators and lifts to the upper level to the covered marshalled taxi rank. A queuing system is in operation. There is also a separate collection point for pre-booked taxis and a drop off point
- Accessible taxis: All London Black Cabs can accommodate wheelchair passengers without wheelchair users having to leave their wheelchair. There is also a separate collection point for prebooked taxis also further away from the lifts.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair access, escalators, elevators.
WC
- Toilets Location: Accessible toilets are located on Platforms' 1 and 12. A Changing Places facility is located on Platform 12. There are dedicated breastfeeding rooms / Parent & Baby rooms; within the Ladies toilets on Platform 1 within the public toilets on Platform 12.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Accessible toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 12.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Hilton London Paddington
- Mercure London Paddington Hotel
- The Pilgrm
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Platform 12
Ticket Office
- 24/7
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: On platform 8/9 and 10
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Located near Platform 1.
Public transport options for London Paddington
- Underground lines: Bakerloo Line, Circle Line, District Line, Hammersmith Line
- Bus lines: N7, 23, 27, N27, 36, 205, N205, 332, 7, 46, A1, 18, N18
- Train lines: Great Western Main Line, Heathrow Express
- Metro: Tube Lines.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from London.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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)
Most popular train connections from London Paddington (PAD)
More options for your journey from London Paddington (PAD) to Cardiff Central (CDF)
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff Central (CDF) and London Paddington (PAD)
Most popular train connections to Cardiff Central (CDF)
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