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The cheapest and fastest trains from Runcorn to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for 23 Mar
Cheapest price
£0.00
Average price
£-0.01
Fastest journey
3 h 4 m
Average duration
3 h 9 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
209 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Runcorn to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
Fast trains
To travel from Runcorn to Cardiff you need to make at least one change.
06:273h24
Runcorn09:51Cardiff
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1 change
06:513h34
Runcorn10:25Cardiff
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1 change
07:313h16
Runcorn10:47Cardiff
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1 change
07:513h34
Runcorn11:25Cardiff
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1 change
08:323h04
Runcorn11:36Cardiff
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1 change
08:323h04
Runcorn11:36Cardiff
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1 change
14:323h09
Runcorn17:41Cardiff
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1 change
11:323h11
Runcorn14:43Cardiff
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1 change
12:313h11
Runcorn15:42Cardiff
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1 change
16:323h11
Runcorn19:43Cardiff
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1 change
Live departures
Runcorn to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Runcorn to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Sunday 22 March. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 19:46
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:27 Runcorn | 3h24 | 09:51 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 06:51 Runcorn | 3h34 | 10:25 Cardiff | 1 change | |
 | 07:07 Runcorn | 4h06 | 11:13 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 07:31 Runcorn | 3h16 | 10:47 Cardiff | 1 change | |
| 07:51 Runcorn | 3h34 | 11:25 Cardiff | 1 change |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Runcorn to Cardiff by train
Compare 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.
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23 Mar
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26 Mar
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Why should you book Runcorn to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Runcorn to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Runcorn 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 Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Runcorn 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Runcorn to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Runcorn to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Runcorn to Cardiff run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £72 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 209 km distance in 3h 9m.
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
Distance 209 km |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price £72 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 3h 9m |
First train 04:15 |
Last train 21:07 |
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
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains from Runcorn to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Runcorn and Cardiff from £72. 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
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
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 6m
Cheapest Price
£53
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
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 43m
Cheapest Price
£116
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
West Midlands Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 9m
West Midlands Trains frequency
18 a day
FAQs: Runcorn to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Runcorn 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 Runcorn to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £72, while the average price tends to be around £80.
The train journey from Runcorn to Cardiff covers a distance of 209 km and takes approximately 3h 9m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Runcorn to Cardiff is 209 km.
The first train from Runcorn to Cardiff leaves at 4:15.
The last train from Runcorn to Cardiff departs at 21:07.
Trains from Runcorn to Cardiff run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Runcorn to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Runcorn to Cardiff.
To travel from Runcorn to Cardiff, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Runcorn to Cardiff.
The train station in Runcorn that goes to Cardiff is Runcorn station (RUN), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Runcorn to Cardiff is by train, costing approximately £72.
Booking trains from Runcorn 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 Runcorn to Cardiff offers a varied landscape, moving from the urban areas of Runcorn through the picturesque Cheshire countryside and into the scenic valleys and hills of South Wales, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Runcorn to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 9m. Trains run 3 times per day over a distance of 209 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 Runcorn to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Runcorn and Cardiff
Runcorn
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Runcorn is Runcorn. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Runcorn for your trip from Runcorn to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 19:30 Saturday 06:30 - 19:30 Sunday 08:45 - 19:30
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park 3 (Platform 2)
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 may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- 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 National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Adjacent to Car Park 1 (Multi-Story)
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Runcorn
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off in the turning circle adjacent to the station entrance.
Amenities at train station
ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:00 - 12:00 Saturday 08:00 - 13:15 Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Chester) via a ramp with handrails and a steep gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Manchester) via a ramp with handrails and a steep gradient. Access between both platforms is via a footbridge.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible public telephones: Located outside the ticket office on the wall
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: 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 Runcorn East
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stops are From the ticket office walk up the steps apx 50m to main road. or Take footbridge by station entrance, walk apx 75m.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: The bus stops on Barnfield Avenue nearest to the station car park. Towards Manchester, wait at the bus stop on the same side of the road as the car park. Towards Chester, wait at the bus stop on the opposite side of the road as the car park.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from Runcorn.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
Hotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike 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)
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
Most popular train connections from Runcorn
More options for your journey from Runcorn to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Runcorn
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