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The cheapest and fastest trains from Macclesfield to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for 27 Nov
Cheapest price
£73
Average price
£90
Fastest journey
3 h 31 m
Average duration
4 h 5 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
210 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Macclesfield to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Macclesfield to Cardiff will cost around £90 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £73.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Macclesfield for Cardiff every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 210 km distance in an average of 4 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 31 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 39 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.
07:063h31
Macclesfield10:37Cardiff
£731One-way
0 changes
04:304h39
Macclesfield09:09Cardiff
£1061One-way
0 changes
07:063h31
Macclesfield10:37Cardiff
£731One-way
0 changes
04:304h39
Macclesfield09:09Cardiff
£1061One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Macclesfield to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Macclesfield to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £24. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £24, and a train costs an average of £72.
Distance: 210 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£95 Average Price | £25 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 5m Average total duration 9h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Macclesfield to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Macclesfield to Cardiff trains for today, Wednesday 26 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 05:25
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:26 Macclesfield | 3h33 | 09:59 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 27 November | |||||
| 04:30 Macclesfield | 4h39 | 09:09 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Macclesfield 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.
Thu
27 Nov
27 Nov
Fri
28 Nov
28 Nov
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29 Nov
29 Nov
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30 Nov
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01 Dec
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Macclesfield to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Macclesfield to Cardiff run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £72 but you can travel from only £24 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:21, the last at 20:46. The fastest train covers the 210 km distance in 3h 24m.
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 £24
Distance 210 km |
Average train duration 3h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price £72 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 24m |
First train 04:21 |
Last train 20:46 |
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 £24
Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast from Macclesfield to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Macclesfield and Cardiff from £24. 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 24m
Cheapest Price
£58
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
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 Duration
3h 38m
Cheapest Price
£123
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 9m
Cheapest Price
£100
Cross Country frequency
15 a day
FAQs: Macclesfield to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Macclesfield 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 Macclesfield to Cardiff offers varied scenery, including the picturesque landscapes of the Cheshire Plain, rolling hills, and glimpses of the border regions of England and Wales. As you approach Cardiff, the route provides views of the Welsh countryside, enhancing the visual experience.
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.
A day trip from Macclesfield to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 24m. The distance between the two cities is 210 km. There are 5 train trips available per day.
To get from Macclesfield to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
Booking trains from Macclesfield to Cardiff 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 Macclesfield to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £72, while the average price tends to be around £95.
The train distance from Macclesfield to Cardiff is 210 km.
The train journey from Macclesfield to Cardiff covers a distance of 210 km and takes approximately 3h 24m. Trains run 5 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Macclesfield to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £24.
The first train from Macclesfield to Cardiff leaves at 4:21.
The train station in Macclesfield that goes to Cardiff is Macclesfield station (MAC), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Macclesfield to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Macclesfield to Cardiff.
The last train from Macclesfield to Cardiff departs at 20:46.
Trains from Macclesfield to Cardiff run approximately 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Macclesfield to Cardiff.
There is no night train service from Macclesfield to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Macclesfield and Cardiff
Macclesfield
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Macclesfield is Macclesfield. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Macclesfield for your trip from Macclesfield to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Saturday 06:15 - 18:30 Sunday 08:00 - 17:30 Monday - Friday 05:45 - 18:30
Parking
- Car Park: Lower Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The accessible toilets are located on Platform 1.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Located on the North end of Platform 1
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Macclesfield
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off on station forecourt.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Queen Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Queen Street for your journey to Cardiff from Macclesfield.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityWC
HotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car 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 Macclesfield
More options for your journey from Macclesfield to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Macclesfield
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