- 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 Sunderland to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 23 Sept
Cheapest price on 23 Sept
£199
Average ticket price on 23 Sept
£199
Fastest journey on 23 Sept
6 h 3 m
Average journey duration on 23 Sept
6 h 3 m
Trains on 23 Sept
1
Distance
399 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Sunderland to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sunderland to Cardiff will cost around £199 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £199.
Fast trains
On Wed 23 Sept, we found 1 trains from Sunderland to Cardiff, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 399 km distance in an average of 6 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 3 m .
The slowest trains will take 6 h 3 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.
8:566h03Sunderland14:59Cardiff£1991One-way0 changes
- 8:566h03Sunderland14:59Cardiff£1991One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Sunderland to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Sunderland to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £46 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 6h 6m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £46, while a train costs an average of £199.
Distance: 399 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£199 Average Price | £46 Average Price Cheapest | £81 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 6m Average total duration Fastest 5h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 17m Average total duration 9h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Sunderland to Cardiff is a coach with an average price of £46.
This is compared to other travel options from Sunderland to Cardiff:
A coach is £153 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Sunderland to Cardiff costing on average £199.
The fastest way to travel from Sunderland to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 5h 36m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Coach takes on average 9h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sunderland 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 1h 3m sooner (5h 36m by train vs 6h 39m by car). Tickets start at around £199 compared to roughly £81 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
Sunderland to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Sunderland to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 23 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:56 Sunderland | 6h03 | 14:59 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sunderland 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.
Wed
23 Sept
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Thu
24 Sept
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25 Sept
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26 Sept
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27 Sept
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29 Sept
29 Sept
Why should you book Sunderland to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Sunderland to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sunderland 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 to find the best option for your trip from Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Sunderland to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Sunderland to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Sunderland to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Sunderland to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £75 but you can travel from only £29 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:27, the last at 17:56. The fastest train covers the 399 km distance in 5h 3m.
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 £29
Distance 399 km |
Average train duration 5h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price £75 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 3m |
First train 4:27 |
Last train 17:56 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 £29
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Sunderland to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Sunderland and Cardiff from £29. 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
5h 3m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£75
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
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 Transport for Wales Duration
5h 14m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£89
Transport for Wales frequency
1 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
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: Sunderland to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £75, while the average price tends to be around £199.
The train journey from Sunderland to Cardiff covers a distance of 399 km and takes approximately 5h 3m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Sunderland to Cardiff is 399 km.
The first train from Sunderland to Cardiff leaves at 4:27.
The last train from Sunderland to Cardiff departs at 17:56.
Trains from Sunderland to Cardiff run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Sunderland to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Sunderland to Cardiff.
There is no night train service from Sunderland to Cardiff.
The train station in Sunderland that goes to Cardiff is Sunderland station (SUN), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Sunderland to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £29.
Booking trains from Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Pennines, rolling countryside, and glimpses of historical towns along the way, making it a moderately scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Sunderland to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Sunderland and Cardiff
Most Sunderland to Cardiff trains use the Sunderland to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Sunderland and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Sunderland
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Sunderland station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Sunderland to Cardiff leave from Sunderland. The station is from Sunderland city centre at Sunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP.
SunderlandSunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP
City-centre transport
Getting to Sunderland from Sunderland city centre
Onward travel informationBusline 0871 200 2233
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off in Fawcett Street, near to the Travel Centre entrance in Athenaeum Street, outside Wilkinsons.
MetroTyne and Wear metro station close to the station. 0191 203 3333
Sunderland train station facilities and services
Sunderland has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Sunderland.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sunderland.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sunderland: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Sunderland: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sunderland: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Lifts to all platforms for disabled passengers from the North end of the station. Open for all services, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Located on the North Concourse and accepts cash and cards, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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.
Most popular train connections from Sunderland
More options for your journey from Sunderland to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Sunderland
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