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The cheapest and fastest trains from Nottingham to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for 06 Dec
Cheapest price
£94
Average price
£146
Fastest journey
3 h 18 m
Average duration
3 h 26 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
214 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nottingham to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nottingham to Cardiff will cost around £146 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £94.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Nottingham 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 214 km distance in an average of 3 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 18 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 42 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.
C2369909:063h20
Nottingham station (NOT)12:26Cardiff Central (CDF)
£941One-way
0 changes
C2369608:073h18
Nottingham station (NOT)11:25Cardiff Central (CDF)
£941One-way
0 changes
Y07696+C23756+
G0477110:543h23
Nottingham station (NOT)14:17Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1971One-way
2 changes
G03494+C23751+G0477009:543h42
Nottingham station (NOT)13:36Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1971One-way
2 changes
C2369608:073h18
Nottingham station (NOT)11:25Cardiff Central (CDF)
£941One-way
0 changes
C2369909:063h20
Nottingham station (NOT)12:26Cardiff Central (CDF)
£941One-way
0 changes
Y07696+C23756+G0477110:543h23
Nottingham station (NOT)14:17Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1971One-way
2 changes
G03494+C23751+G0477009:543h42
Nottingham station (NOT)13:36Cardiff Central (CDF)
£1971One-way
2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Nottingham to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Nottingham to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 18m. 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 £13, and a train costs an average of £16.
Distance: 214 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£67 Average Price | £24 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 48m Average total duration Fastest 3h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 9m Average total duration 5h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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
Nottingham to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Nottingham to Cardiff trains for today, Friday 5 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 02:06
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C23695 | On time 08:07 Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h18 | 11:25 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y07411+C23813 · C23742+P08239 | On time 08:17 Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h23 | 11:40 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 changes | |
| G03490+C23745+P08240 | On time 08:54 Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h16 | 12:10 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 changes | |
| C23698 | On time 09:07 Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h19 | 12:26 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G03493+C23749+P08242 | On time 09:54 Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h22 | 13:16 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 changes | |
| C23701 | On time 10:06 Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h19 | 13:25 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 Nottingham 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.
Sat
06 Dec
06 Dec
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07 Dec
07 Dec
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08 Dec
08 Dec
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09 Dec
09 Dec
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12 Dec
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Nottingham to Cardiff?
The best time to book your train from Nottingham to Cardiff is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Nottingham to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Nottingham to Cardiff per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Nottingham to Cardiff.
Trains
from £55Coaches
from £12Journey information
Overview: Train from Nottingham to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Nottingham to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £16 but you can travel from only £13 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 20:54. The fastest train covers the 214 km distance in 3h 8m.
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 £13
Distance 214 km |
Average train duration 3h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price £16 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 8m |
First train 05:07 |
Last train 20:54 |
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 £13
Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country from Nottingham to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Nottingham and Cardiff from £13. 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 8m
Cheapest Price
£19
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 5m
Cheapest Price
£141
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Nottingham to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nottingham 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.
A day trip from Nottingham to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 8m. There are 6 trains per day covering the 214 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.
The train journey from Nottingham to Cardiff offers varied landscapes, including charming countryside views, rolling hills, and glimpses of the River Severn as you approach Cardiff, making it a pleasantly scenic route.
Booking trains from Nottingham to Cardiff in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cheapest way to get from Nottingham to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £13.
The train distance from Nottingham to Cardiff is 214 km.
The train journey from Nottingham to Cardiff covers a distance of 214 km and takes approximately 3h 8m. Trains run 6 per day.
The last train from Nottingham to Cardiff departs at 20:54.
The train station in Nottingham that goes to Cardiff is Nottingham station (NOT), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The first train from Nottingham to Cardiff leaves at 5:07.
Yes, there is a direct train between Nottingham and Cardiff. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Trains from Nottingham to Cardiff run approximately 6 times per day.
There is no night train service from Nottingham to Cardiff.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Nottingham to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Nottingham to Cardiff.
To get from Nottingham to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
The cost of a train ticket from Nottingham to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £16, while the average price tends to be around £67.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Nottingham and Cardiff
Nottingham
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Nottingham is Nottingham. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Nottingham for your trip from Nottingham to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 22:00 Saturday 05:00 - 22:00 Sunday 07:15 - 22:20
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a category A access station. There are lifts available to all platforms and there is level and ramp access to the concourse and ticket office/machines. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible public telephones: none
- Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on useful information poster at station.
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 and Platform 5/6. The National key toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 and Platform 5/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located on the Southern Concourse, Platform 1/3 & Platform 5/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle hub located on ground floor of multi-storey car park on Queens Road. Additional stands in secure compound adjacent to Platform 1 on Station Road.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Nottingham
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses will pick up and drop off from Carrington Street, at the front of the station.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Bay. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Bay for your journey to Cardiff from Nottingham.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityHotelLost 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 B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- 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.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Bay
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation 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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation 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.
Most popular train connections from Nottingham
More options for your journey from Nottingham to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Nottingham
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