A train trip from Cardiff Central to Manchester Victoria takes about 4hrs 15 mins on average, covering roughly 144 miles (232 kilometres). With around 33 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 Victoria |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Central |
Frequency | 33trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 41 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:33 / 23:54 |
Distance | 144miles (232 km) |
6 Routes | Via Manchester Piccadilly Via Bristol Parkway & Manchester Piccadilly Via Manchester Piccadilly & Manchester Central Zone Via Chester Via Crewe & Manchester Piccadilly Via Newport (South Wales) & Manchester Piccadilly |
6 Train Operators | GWR, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail |
Prices | from£31.60 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Manchester Victoria – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Manchester Victoria 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 15 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Manchester Victoria), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 41 mins. With roughly 33 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 GWR, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, 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 Victoria!
The travel time between Cardiff Central and Manchester Victoria by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 15 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 41 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Manchester Victoria is 3hrs 41 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Manchester Victoria 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 Victoria vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 33 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:54.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Manchester Victoria typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Manchester Victoria 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 Victoria. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Victoria, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Central & Manchester Victoria. However, there are 33 possible journeys which require a change.
GWR, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, First TransPennine Express and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Manchester Victoria.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Manchester Victoria, 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 | 10:31 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 06:46 Cardiff Central | 10:34 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 3 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:19 Cardiff Central | 11:18 Manchester Victoria | 1 change | Chester | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:23 Cardiff Central | 11:31 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 8 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:53 Cardiff Central | 11:34 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:18 Cardiff Central | 12:31 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 13 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:53 Cardiff Central | 12:34 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:19 Cardiff Central | 13:31 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 12 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:53 Cardiff Central | 13:34 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:18 Cardiff Central | 14:31 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 13 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:53 Cardiff Central | 14:34 Manchester Victoria | 2 changes | Manchester Piccadilly Manchester Central Zone | 3 hrs 41 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:23 Cardiff Central | 15:18 Manchester Victoria | 1 change | Chester | 3 hrs 55 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.
Heading to Manchester and considering Manchester Victoria Station as your travel hub? You're in good company. This bustling station is a key player in the UK's rail network, serving not only as a gateway to exploring the vibrant city of Manchester but also a starting point for exciting travel adventures across the UK. Let's dive deep into what Manchester Victoria has to offer, so you can hit the ground running—or should we say, rolling down the tracks!
Manchester Victoria Station is equipped with various facilities to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience. Passengers can easily buy or collect tickets thanks to its well-staffed ticket office, which operates from 06:30-22:00 on weekdays and extends to 22:15 on Sundays. For those in a hurry, ticket machines are readily available, and they include accessible options for all passengers.
Step-free access throughout the station makes movement easy, with lifts between platforms and ramps connecting to the Manchester Metrolink. Despite the absence of waiting rooms, the station provides a sufficient seating area, along with accessible amenities like baby-changing facilities integrated within the accessible toilets. However, some might miss the absence of an ATM or a first-class lounge.
Manchester Victoria doesn't fall short on refreshment options; a large café adorned with seating options is complemented by various coffee and news outlets. Furthermore, the station takes security seriously, with CCTV cameras installed throughout.
Transitioning from train to other modes of transport? You're covered! Right at the station's main entrance, a Rail Replacement Service pick-up point ensures smooth bus transfers. Manchester's buzzing bus network is accessible through services operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach', with routes easily browsable online. The Metroshuttle service offers free city center travel, connecting key spots daily from 07:00-19:00.
Trams are another option, with the Metrolink tram network ferrying passengers around Manchester. Whether it’s a quick jaunt to Manchester Piccadilly or a trip north to Bury, the trams have got you covered. While bicycle hire isn't available at the station, cyclists will find 38 cycle stands by platform 3, monitored by CCTV for added peace of mind.
Curious where you might meander? Manchester Victoria is a gateway to a multitude of destinations. Fancy heading east? Trains regularly zip to Leeds or continue all the way to York. For those with a Beatles tune in their heads, Liverpool Lime Street is just a ticket away. Northerly adventures beckon with routes to Newcastle and Wigan Wallgate. Not to forget the scenic routes to charming towns like Rochdale or Hebden Bridge, each offering its unique charm and history.
Search for more travel ideas and plan your next journey by checking the train schedules and enjoy the rich countryside views or the lively urban landscapes en route to your destination.
As you consider your rail journey from Manchester Victoria, remember that this station isn't merely a stop on the map—it's your portal to exploring both the iconic and the hidden gems of the UK. With comprehensive facilities, easily accessible transport options, and routes to suit a variety of travel whims, this station serves as an inviting starting point. Prepare to dive into the heart of Manchester, its pulse resonating from the tracks and beyond. So why wait? Embrace your next adventure and book your train tickets today!