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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Southampton Central

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Cardiff Central to Southampton Central by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central takes about 3hrs 8 mins on average, covering roughly 86 miles (138 kilometres). With around 34 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 £11.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Southampton Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Southampton Central

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

34trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 32 mins

Changes

015 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:07 / 00:54

Distance

86miles
(138 km)

6 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£11.00

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central by Train

Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central 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 3hrs 8 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Southampton Central), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 32 mins. With roughly 34 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 86-mile (138 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, South Western Railway, GWR, CrossCountry, 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 £11.00 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 Southampton Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central

Curious about your trip from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central by train?

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 8 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 32 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central is 2hrs 32 mins.

How much does the train from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central can start from as little as £11.00 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 34 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:07, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:54.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central?

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central?

Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Southampton Central, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central?

Yes! There are usually around 15 direct services per day from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central?

Transport for Wales, South Western Railway, GWR and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Southampton Central, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Cardiff Central to Southampton Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central on Thursday 24th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Thursday 24th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:28 Cardiff Central09:03 Southampton CentralDirect2 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
06:51 Cardiff Central09:43 Southampton Central1 changeReading
2 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
07:27 Cardiff Central10:05 Southampton CentralDirect2 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
08:18 Cardiff Central10:42 Southampton Central1 changeReading
2 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
08:27 Cardiff Central11:03 Southampton CentralDirect2 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
08:37 Cardiff Central11:43 Southampton Central1 changeReading
3 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
09:28 Cardiff Central12:02 Southampton CentralDirect2 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
10:18 Cardiff Central12:47 Southampton Central1 changeReading
2 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
10:30 Cardiff Central13:02 Southampton CentralDirect2 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
11:18 Cardiff Central13:43 Southampton Central1 changeReading
2 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
11:30 Cardiff Central14:04 Southampton CentralDirect2 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
11:50 Cardiff Central14:43 Southampton Central1 changeReading
2 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Southampton Central journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central start from as little as £11.00

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central start from £99.10 one way, or £100.10 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central are available for £55.40 one way, or £61.20 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Cardiff Central to Southampton Central is £21.00 & the average saving on this route is £6.87!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Central Station

Discover Cardiff Central Train Station

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.

Facilities and Amenities

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.

Connectivity and Travel Links

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!

Popular Destinations

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.

In Conclusion

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.

Everything you need to know about Southampton Central Station

Discover Southampton Central Station

Welcome to Southampton Central, a dynamic hub nestled in the heart of the bustling coastal city of Southampton. Whether you're catching a train for a business trip or embarking on a leisurely journey, this station offers convenience, connectivity, and a gateway to numerous destinations across the UK. Southampton itself is a city steeped in maritime heritage and offers a fantastic array of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Facilities and Amenities

Southampton Central Station is well-equipped to make your travel experience smooth and enjoyable. The ticket office operates from early morning until late evening, accommodating the needs of both early birds and night owls alike. Ticket machines are available, with facilities to collect pre-booked tickets, including options for those with a Disabled Persons Railcard.

For tech-savvy travelers needing assistance, help and support are never far away. Assistance is available throughout the station, from help points and ticket offices, to accessible ticket machines. Step-free access extends throughout the station, ensuring that all passengers can navigate with ease. Additional amenities include heated waiting rooms on all platforms and accessible toilets on Platforms 1 and 4.

Onward Travel Options

Southampton Central Station not only serves as a train hub but also connects with other modes of transport, making it exceptionally convenient for onward travel. The station offers direct links to a reliable rail replacement service from Blechynden Terrace during maintenance periods. If you're looking for a taxi, you'll find one conveniently outside Platform 1's exit. For those who prefer buses, ample information is available to assist with bus services. A printable guide ensures you won't get lost planning your next steps.

Explore Destinations from Southampton

From Southampton Central, the world, or at least the UK, is your oyster. Hop on a train to iconic destinations such as London Waterloo and experience the city in its vibrant glory. For a more local jaunt, quaint Winchester awaits with its historical charm. Bask in the coastal beauty of Bournemouth or venture to the maritime hubs of Portsmouth and Southsea. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the New Forest with a train to Brockenhurst or cross the country to reach the rolling hills of Brighton. And for an international departure, Gatwick Airport is just a rail line away.

Final Thoughts

With its extensive facilities and numerous connections, Southampton Central Station is pivotal in your travel journey. Whether you're looking to discover bustling cityscapes or serene countryside retreats, this station acts as a central departure point to multiple experiences. So why wait? Plan your journey today and delve into the myriad of adventures that await just beyond Southampton Central's platforms. Make the most of your travels by booking your train tickets online or via the ticket machines available at the station now.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central