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The cheapest and fastest trains from York to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for 01 Dec
Cheapest price
£72
Average price
£98
Fastest journey
4 h 23 m
Average duration
4 h 54 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
310 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from York to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from York to Cardiff will cost around £98 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £72.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave York 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 310 km distance in an average of 4 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 23 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 25 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.
08:195h25
York13:44Cardiff
£721One-way
0 changes
09:205h25
York14:45Cardiff
£721One-way
0 changes
14:375h46
York20:23Cardiff
£741One-way
0 changes
05:454h40
York10:25Cardiff
£891One-way
0 changes
08:444h23
York13:07Cardiff
£1841One-way
0 changes
08:444h23
York13:07Cardiff
£1841One-way
0 changes
07:404h36
York12:16Cardiff
£2001One-way
0 changes
05:454h40
York10:25Cardiff
£891One-way
0 changes
09:205h25
York14:45Cardiff
£721One-way
0 changes
08:195h25
York13:44Cardiff
£721One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for York to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from York to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £20, and a train costs an average of £36.
Distance: 310 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£84 Average Price | £34 Average Price Cheapest |
5h 3m Average total duration Fastest 4h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 41m Average total duration 7h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg 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
York to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for York to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Monday 1 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 13:56
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05:45 York | 4h40 | 10:25 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 07:40 York | 4h36 | 12:16 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:44 York | 4h23 | 13:07 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 09:20 York | 5h25 | 14:45 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets York 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.
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01 Dec
01 Dec
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02 Dec
02 Dec
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03 Dec
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Journey information
Overview: Train from York to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from York to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £20 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 02:35, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 310 km distance in 4h 23m.
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 £20
Distance 310 km |
Average train duration 4h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price £36 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 23m |
First train 02:35 |
Last train 21:35 |
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 £20
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from York to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between York and Cardiff from £20. 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
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
£55
CrossCountry frequency
5 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
5h 21m
Cheapest Price
£65
Transport for Wales frequency
3 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 49m
Cheapest Price
£226
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
FAQs: York to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from York 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.
A day trip from York to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 23m. Trains run 7 times per day, covering a distance of 310 km.
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 cheapest way to get from York to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £20.
The cost of a train ticket from York to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £84.
The train distance from York to Cardiff is 310 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 last train from York to Cardiff departs at 21:35.
There is no night train service from York to Cardiff.
The train journey from York to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with highlights including the picturesque landscapes of the Yorkshire countryside, the rolling hills of the Midlands, and views of the Severn Estuary as you approach Cardiff.
Booking trains from York 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 York to Cardiff covers a distance of 310 km and takes approximately 4h 23m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train station in York that goes to Cardiff is York station (YRK), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The first train from York to Cardiff leaves at 2:35.
Trains from York to Cardiff run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from York to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from York to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from York to Cardiff.
To get from York to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in York and Cardiff
York
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in York is York. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at York for your trip from York to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 20:00 Saturday 06:00 - 20:00 Sunday 08:00 - 19:00 For Advance Purchases, the opening hours are: Mon - Fri 08:00 until 19:00. Sat 08:00 until 18:00. Sun 09:00 until 18:00
Parking
- Car Park: Station Short Stay Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: No advance booking is required but it will reduce the waiting time for a wheelchair access Taxi
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible machines are available on the main concourse
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The Ladies toilets are located in the Main Concourse and in the Waiting Room between Platforms 7 and 9. The Gents toilet is adjacent to Platform 2 and between Platforms 8 and 9. The National key toilets are adjacent to Platform 2 and between Platforms 8 and 9; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from station staff.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are adjacent to Platform 2 and between Platforms 8 and 9; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: This station has heated waiting rooms available. Seating is available at an accessible height in the waiting room and on platforms
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within station, within car park, and next to the ticket office
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for York
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at Bus Stand E outside the Principal Hotel
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 York.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
Bike 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.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B3. Access to the platform from Park Avenue is via a moderate ramp however there is no dropped kerb on the pavement. Access is also available via steps.
- 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: No
Public transport options for Coryton
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the top of the steps close to the station entrance on Park Road. During planned rail improvement works affecting services to and from this station, please note that we normally either provide rail replacement bus services to and from the station as mentioned above or we arrange ticket acceptance on Cardiff Bus serviceswhich follow the section of the City line between Cardiff and Coryton. Please check information posters for confirmation. Please note that there are no City Line services on a Sunday and therefore no rail replacement bus services or ticket acceptance by Cardiff Bus between Cardiff and Coryton on that day.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost 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 B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient
- 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: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Ninian Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access to the platform an end of platform ramp.
- 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: No
Public transport options for Rhiwbina
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance adjacent to the library
More options for your journey from York to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and York
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