- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rugby to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept
Cheapest price on 19 Sept
£46
Average ticket price on 19 Sept
£46
Fastest journey on 19 Sept
2 h 51 m
Average journey duration on 19 Sept
2 h 51 m
Trains on 19 Sept
1
Distance
165 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rugby to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rugby to Cardiff will cost around £46 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £46.
Fast trains
On Sat 19 Sept, we found 1 trains from Rugby to Cardiff, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 165 km distance in an average of 2 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 51 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 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.
8:342h51Rugby11:25Cardiff£461One-way0 changes
- 8:342h51Rugby11:25Cardiff£461One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Rugby to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rugby to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £37 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 4m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £37, while a train costs an average of £177.
Distance: 165 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£177 Average Price | £37 Average Price Cheapest | £33 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 33m Average total duration 8h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Rugby to Cardiff is a coach with an average price of £37.
This is compared to other travel options from Rugby to Cardiff:
A coach is £140 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rugby to Cardiff costing on average £177.
The fastest way to travel from Rugby to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 34m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Coach takes on average 8h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rugby and Cardiff including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 8m sooner (2h 34m by train vs 2h 42m by car). Tickets start at around £177 compared to roughly £33 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Rugby to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Rugby to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Saturday 19 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:34 Rugby | 2h51 | 11:25 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Rugby 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
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
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23 Sept
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25 Sept
25 Sept
Why should you book Rugby to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains offer trains services from Rugby to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rugby to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Rugby to Cardiff.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rugby to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Rugby to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Rugby to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rugby to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Rugby to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £177 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:15. The fastest train covers the 165 km distance in 2h 50m.
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 £19
Distance 165 km |
Average train duration 2h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £177 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 5:07 |
Last train 21:15 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 70 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 £19
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains from Rugby to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Rugby and Cardiff from £19. 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
2h 51m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£42
CrossCountry frequency
7 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£177
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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
West Midlands Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
2h 51m
West Midlands Trains frequency
11 a day
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.
FAQs: Rugby to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rugby 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 Rugby to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £177, while the average price tends to be around £177.
The train journey from Rugby to Cardiff covers a distance of 165 km and takes approximately 2h 50m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Rugby to Cardiff is 165 km.
The first train from Rugby to Cardiff leaves at 5:07.
The last train from Rugby to Cardiff departs at 21:15.
Trains from Rugby to Cardiff run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Rugby to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Rugby to Cardiff.
To get from Rugby to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Rugby to Cardiff.
The train station in Rugby that goes to Cardiff is Rugby station (RUG), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Rugby to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Rugby 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 Rugby to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with scenic countryside views, especially as you travel through the picturesque Cotswolds and approach the beautiful Severn Estuary before reaching Cardiff.
A day trip from Rugby to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 50m. Trains run 4 times per day, covering a distance of 165 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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Rugby to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Rugby and Cardiff
Most Rugby to Cardiff trains use the Rugby to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Rugby and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Rugby
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Rugby station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Rugby to Cardiff leave from Rugby. The station is 1 km from Rugby city centre at Rugby station, Railway Terrace, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 3LA.
RugbyRugby station, Railway Terrace, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 3LA
City-centre transport
Getting to Rugby from Rugby city centre
Rugby is 1 km from Rugby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4, 96S, 8B, 8, 96A, 96, 4A, 2, D1, 8A · 2m · £2 · every ~22 min
4, 4A · 5m · £2 · every ~11 min
Rugby train station facilities and services
Rugby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Rugby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rugby. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rugby: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rugby: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rugby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Steep ramp from entrance to platforms, staff are available to help, 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.
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.
More options for your journey from Rugby to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Rugby
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