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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for 04 Dec
Cheapest price
£79
Average price
£86
Fastest journey
3 h 9 m
Average duration
3 h 26 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
141 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Plymouth to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Plymouth to Cardiff will cost around £86 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £79.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Plymouth for Cardiff every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 141 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 9 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 49 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.
04:253h23
Plymouth07:48Cardiff
£791One-way
0 changes
07:273h49
Plymouth11:16Cardiff
£831One-way
0 changes
09:273h58
Plymouth13:25Cardiff
£831One-way
0 changes
19:083h49
Plymouth22:57Cardiff
£831One-way
0 changes
07:353h41
Plymouth11:16Cardiff
£1011One-way
0 changes
08:273h09
Plymouth11:36Cardiff
£1021One-way
0 changes
13:273h09
Plymouth16:36Cardiff
£1011One-way
0 changes
04:253h23
Plymouth07:48Cardiff
£791One-way
0 changes
07:353h41
Plymouth11:16Cardiff
£1011One-way
0 changes
19:083h49
Plymouth22:57Cardiff
£831One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Plymouth to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £12, and a train costs an average of £33.
Distance: 141 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£91 Average Price | £19 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 14m Average total duration 4h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg 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
Plymouth to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Cardiff trains for today, Wednesday 3 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 00:46
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04:25 Plymouth | 3h23 | 07:48 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 06:27 Plymouth | 3h58 | 10:25 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 07:35 Plymouth | 3h41 | 11:16 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:27 Plymouth | 3h09 | 11:36 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:27 Plymouth | 3h11 | 20:38 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Plymouth 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.
Thu
04 Dec
04 Dec
Fri
05 Dec
05 Dec
Sat
06 Dec
06 Dec
Sun
07 Dec
07 Dec
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10 Dec
10 Dec
Journey information
Overview: Train from Plymouth to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Plymouth to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £33 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:42, the last at 22:33. The fastest train covers the 141 km distance in 3h 7m.
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 £12
Distance 141 km |
Average train duration 3h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price £33 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 7m |
First train 04:42 |
Last train 22:33 |
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 £12
Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western from Plymouth to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Plymouth and Cardiff from £12. 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
3h 14m
Cheapest Price
£82
Great Western Rail frequency
3 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
Average Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
£52
CrossCountry frequency
4 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
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
£168
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
£92
first_great_western frequency
13 a day
FAQs: Plymouth to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Cardiff offers scenic views of the Devon countryside, the rugged coastline of South Devon, and the picturesque landscapes of South Wales, making it a visually appealing route.
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 distance from Plymouth to Cardiff is 141 km.
A day trip from Plymouth to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 7m each way. Trains run 6 times per day for this 141 km journey.
The train journey from Plymouth to Cardiff covers a distance of 141 km and takes approximately 3h 7m. Trains run 6 per day.
Booking trains from Plymouth to Cardiff in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, there is a direct train between Plymouth and Cardiff. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Great Western Rail, first_great_western.
The first train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 4:42.
The cost of a train ticket from Plymouth to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £33, while the average price tends to be around £91.
To get from Plymouth to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
The last train from Plymouth to Cardiff departs at 22:33.
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £12.
Trains from Plymouth to Cardiff run approximately 6 times per day.
There is no night train service from Plymouth to Cardiff.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Cardiff is Plymouth station (PLY), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Plymouth to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Plymouth and Cardiff
Plymouth
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Plymouth is Dockyard. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dockyard for your trip from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Dockyard
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transport options for Dockyard
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the bus stops on Keyham Road (B3396) near the turning to Keat Street
Amenities at train station
Parking
TaxisLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: adjacent to shelter on platform 1
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Keyham
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus Stops on Saltash Road, next to HMS Drake Barracks.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMAccessibility
WC
HotelLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:25 - 20:00 Saturday 05:20 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:30
Shopping
- Type of shops available: WHSmith and Spar Supermarket
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and the station subway. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office.
- 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 Platform 4, Platform 7 and adjacent ticket counters.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Within accessible wc's
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platforms 3 and 4
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Plymouth
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: 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 Plymouth.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost 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 Rental
Information 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 Plymouth
More options for your journey from Plymouth to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Plymouth
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