A train trip from Edinburgh to Cardiff Central takes about 7hrs 33 mins on average, covering roughly 309 miles (498 kilometres). With around 23 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 £37.70, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Cardiff Central |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Edinburgh |
Frequency | 23trains per day |
Journey Time | from5hrs 52 mins |
Changes | 01 direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 05:40 / 00:22 |
Distance | 309miles (498 km) |
8 Routes | Via London Kings Cross & London Paddington Via Crewe Via Bristol Parkway Via Birmingham New Street Direct Via Cheltenham Spa Via Preston (Lancs) & Manchester Piccadilly Via Motherwell & Crewe |
9 Train Operators | Lumo, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, London North Eastern Railway, GWR, ScotRail, CrossCountry, Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express |
Prices | from£37.70 |
Hop on a Train from Edinburgh to Cardiff Central – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Edinburgh to Cardiff 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 7hrs 33 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cardiff Central), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 5hrs 52 mins. With roughly 23 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 309-mile (498 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Lumo, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, London North Eastern Railway, GWR, ScotRail, CrossCountry, Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, 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 £37.70 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 Cardiff Central!
The travel time between Edinburgh and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 7hrs 33 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 52 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Edinburgh to Cardiff Central is 5hrs 52 mins.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £37.70 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 Edinburgh and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 23 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:40, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:22.
First class tickets on trains between Edinburgh and Cardiff Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Edinburgh and Cardiff Central 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 Edinburgh and Cardiff Central. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Central, 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 1 direct services per day from Edinburgh to Cardiff Central
Lumo, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, London North Eastern Railway, GWR, ScotRail, CrossCountry, Northern Rail and First TransPennine Express are the main train operating companies running services between Edinburgh and Cardiff Central.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Edinburgh and Cardiff Central, 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 | |
| 06:52 Edinburgh | 12:45 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Crewe | 5 hrs 53 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:04 Edinburgh | 14:07 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 7 hrs 3 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:30 Edinburgh | 14:36 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | London Kings Cross London Paddington | 7 hrs 6 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:52 Edinburgh | 14:44 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Crewe | 5 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:07 Edinburgh | 16:08 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 7 hrs 1 min | Get Tickets | |
| 09:30 Edinburgh | 16:36 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | London Kings Cross London Paddington | 7 hrs 6 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 10:52 Edinburgh | 16:46 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Crewe | 5 hrs 54 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:08 Edinburgh | 18:05 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 6 hrs 57 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:30 Edinburgh | 18:37 Cardiff Central | 2 changes | London Kings Cross London Paddington | 7 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:07 Edinburgh | 19:10 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Bristol Parkway | 7 hrs 3 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:52 Edinburgh | 19:27 Cardiff Central | 1 change | Birmingham New Street | 6 hrs 35 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:07 Edinburgh | 20:07 Cardiff Central | Direct | 7 hrs | Get Tickets | ||
Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Train Station stands as a bustling gateway to the vibrant city of Edinburgh and beyond. Known officially as Edinburgh Waverley, this station is not just a hub for commuters and travelers but a historical marvel worth exploring. Whether you're catching a train, planning a leisurely exploration of Scotland's scenic landscapes, or simply passing through, this station offers an abundance of amenities and connections that make your journey seamless and enjoyable.
Edinburgh Waverley is a sizable station where modern conveniences blend with historical charm. Travelers will find a ticket office that opens early in the morning and stays available late into the evening, along with plenty of automated machines for quick purchases or online order collections. Accessibility is a key focus at Waverley, with ample step-free access throughout the station via lifts and escalators, and essential amenities like accessible toilets and ramps for easy train access.
If you need assistance or have questions, helpful staff and customer information points are scattered throughout the station. Rest assured, luggage storage and lost property services managed by the Excess Baggage Company are also available in this bustling transportation hub.
Edinburgh Waverley comes well-equipped with facilities to enhance your travel experience. A wide range of outlets awaits, from cozy coffee shops to a variety of food options with seating areas to relax before your journey. Travelers can also take advantage of the free parking and the impressive bicycle accommodations, with 223 storage spaces available throughout the station and car park. If connectivity is your concern, the robust public Wi-Fi, convenient payphones, and currency exchange services might just set your mind at ease.
Edinburgh Waverley is well integrated into the city's transport network. Convenient bus services from Lothian Buses are available, and they promise easy, step-free access. Are you heading to the airport? The 'Airlink 100' express shuttle directly connects you to Edinburgh Airport. Also, consider the Edinburgh Tram for straightforward commuting around town. Taxis are easily accessible on Market Street and Waverley Bridge for direct rides within the city. Whether it's a temporary rail replacement with scuttling buses or onward journeys, the station ensures you're never stranded.
For further exploration, why not hop on a train to popular destinations? Journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow Queen Street or venture further south with a scenic ride to London Kings Cross. Travel times are quick and efficient, making these routes ideal for both business trips and leisurely weekends. Adventure-seekers may also enjoy routes that lead to historic spots like Inverkeithing or the bracing seaside town of North Berwick.
From Edinburgh Station, the rich cultural tapestry of Scotland is just a train ride away. Whether you're considering trips to nearby attractions like Newcastle or York, or off the beaten path to places like Aberdeen, your journey will be as memorable as the destination. In this vibrant nexus of Scottish rail travel, every route offers a unique narrative and promises experiences waiting to be explored.
Edinburgh Waverley is not just a station; it's a narrative starting point for countless adventures and memories. So the next time you're planning a trip, remember to explore the diverse options this historical hub offers. Revel in the convenience, relish the modern amenities, and let the tales of your journey unravel from this pivotal spot. Whether you're a local commuter or a seasonal traveler passing through, Edinburgh's charm awaits, ready to be part of your story.
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.