A train trip from Cardiff Central to Manchester Stations takes about 4hrs 3 mins on average, covering roughly 144 miles (232 kilometres). With around 32 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £31.60, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Manchester Stations |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Central |
Frequency | 32trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 20 mins |
Changes | 016 direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:33 / 00:44 |
Distance | 144miles (232 km) |
5 Routes | Direct Via Bristol Parkway Via Crewe Via Newport (South Wales) Via Swansea |
5 Train Operators | CrossCountry, Northern Rail, GWR, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales |
Prices | from£31.60 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Manchester Stations – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Manchester Stations by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!
On average, the journey takes around 4hrs 3 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Manchester Stations), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 20 mins. With roughly 32 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 144-mile (232 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of CrossCountry, Northern Rail, GWR, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!
The best part? Tickets start from just £31.60 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.
So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Manchester Stations!
The travel time between Cardiff Central and Manchester Stations by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 3 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 20 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Manchester Stations is 3hrs 20 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Manchester Stations can start from as little as £31.60 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Manchester Stations vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 32 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:44.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Manchester Stations typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Manchester Stations can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Central and Manchester Stations. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Stations, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
Yes! There are usually around 16 direct services per day from Cardiff Central to Manchester Stations
CrossCountry, Northern Rail, GWR, Avanti West Coast and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Manchester Stations.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Manchester Stations, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Thursday 24th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 06:24 Cardiff Central | 09:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 35 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 06:46 Cardiff Central | 10:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Direct | 3 hrs 27 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 07:23 Cardiff Central | 10:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 36 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:53 Cardiff Central | 11:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Direct | 3 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 08:18 Cardiff Central | 11:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:53 Cardiff Central | 12:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Direct | 3 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 09:19 Cardiff Central | 12:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 40 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:53 Cardiff Central | 13:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Direct | 3 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 10:18 Cardiff Central | 13:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:53 Cardiff Central | 14:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Direct | 3 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | ||
| 11:18 Cardiff Central | 14:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:53 Cardiff Central | 15:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Direct | 3 hrs 20 mins | Get Tickets | ||
Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.
Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.
The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.
This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!
Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.
Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.
The following stations are part of this group. Click a station for more information.