- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Loughborough to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 12 Oct
Cheapest price on 12 Oct
£109
Average ticket price on 12 Oct
£109
Fastest journey on 12 Oct
3 h 32 m
Average journey duration on 12 Oct
3 h 32 m
Trains on 12 Oct
1
Distance
197 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Loughborough to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Loughborough to Cardiff will cost around £109 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £109.
Fast trains
On Mon 12 Oct, we found 1 trains from Loughborough to Cardiff, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 197 km distance in an average of 3 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 32 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 32 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.
10:533h32Loughborough14:25Cardiff£1091One-way0 changes
- 10:533h32Loughborough14:25Cardiff£1091One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Loughborough to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Loughborough to Cardiff run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £54 but you can travel from only £34 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 20:00. The fastest train covers the 197 km distance in 3h 0m.
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 £34
Distance 197 km |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price £54 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 3h 0m |
First train 4:25 |
Last train 20:00 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 6 days |
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 £34
Live departures
Loughborough to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Loughborough to Cardiff trains for today, Sunday 11 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 17:50 Loughborough | 3h32 | 21:22 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 21:29 Loughborough | 9h56 | 7:25 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Loughborough to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry operates all trains services from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Train companies: CrossCountry from Loughborough to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Loughborough and Cardiff from £34. 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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£54
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
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.
Best day trips from Cardiff by train
The most popular day trips by train from Cardiff are Bristol, Bath, Swansea, Newport and Cheltenham. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cardiff on Omio.
Day trip from Cardiff to Bristol by train
Why visit Bristol for the day?
Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.
How to get from Cardiff to Bristol by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 39m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Bath by train
Why visit Bath for the day?
Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.
How to get from Cardiff to Bath by train?
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:13, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 58 km distance in 54m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Swansea by train
Why visit Swansea for the day?
Swansea is known for its sweeping bay, maritime past and connection to Dylan Thomas. The city mixes a practical urban centre with a waterfront feel and quick access to the Gower coast.
How to get from Cardiff to Swansea by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 50m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Newport by train
Why visit Newport for the day?
Newport is a South Wales city known for its industrial past, the Transporter Bridge and riverside setting on the Usk. Regenerated shopping areas and historic sites give it a practical mix of modern city life and local heritage.
How to get from Cardiff to Newport by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 17 km distance in 10m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Cheltenham by train
Why visit Cheltenham for the day?
Cheltenham is a Regency spa town known for elegant architecture, garden squares and a lively festival calendar. It is especially associated with jump racing and the Cheltenham Festival, balanced by a refined town-centre atmosphere.
How to get from Cardiff to Cheltenham by train?
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 89 km distance in 1h 0m.
FAQs: Loughborough to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Loughborough 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 Loughborough to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £54, while the average price tends to be around £60.
The train journey from Loughborough to Cardiff covers a distance of 197 km and takes approximately 3h 0m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Loughborough to Cardiff is 197 km.
The first train from Loughborough to Cardiff leaves at 4:25.
The last train from Loughborough to Cardiff departs at 20:00.
Trains from Loughborough to Cardiff run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Loughborough to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Loughborough to Cardiff.
There is no night train service from Loughborough to Cardiff.
The train station in Loughborough that goes to Cardiff is Loughborough station (LBO), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
Booking trains from Loughborough 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 Loughborough to Cardiff offers a mix of scenic views, particularly as you travel through the picturesque countryside of the Midlands and approach the Severn Estuary. Passengers can enjoy views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and the lush landscape, which can be especially charming during the spring and autumn seasons.
Yes, you can take the train from Loughborough to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Loughborough and Cardiff
Most Loughborough to Cardiff trains use the Loughborough to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Loughborough and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Loughborough
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Loughborough station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Loughborough to Cardiff leave from Loughborough. The station is 1 km from Loughborough city centre at Loughborough Railway Station, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 1EX, United Kingdom.
LoughboroughLoughborough Railway Station, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 1EX, United Kingdom+44 345 712 5678
City-centre transport
Getting to Loughborough from Loughborough city centre
Loughborough is 1 km from Loughborough city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus127 · 4m · £2 · every ~11 min
Sky · 11m · £2 · every ~15 min
Loughborough train station facilities and services
Loughborough has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Basin, The Orange Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Loughborough. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Loughborough. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Loughborough: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Loughborough: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Loughborough: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Premier Inn Loughborough, Travelodge Loughborough Central, Ramada Loughborough Hotel.
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.
Most popular train connections from Loughborough
More options for your journey from Loughborough to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Loughborough
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
