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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Apr 04
Cheapest price
$91
Average price
$116
Fastest journey
3 h 9 m
Average duration
3 h 29 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
141 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Plymouth to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Plymouth to Cardiff will cost around $116 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Plymouth for Cardiff on Sat, Apr 04, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Apr 04 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 3 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 9 m .
On Sat, Apr 04 the slowest trains will take 3 h 52 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.
12:27 PM3h09Plymouth3:36 PMCardiff$911One-way0 transfers
8:27 AM3h52Plymouth12:19 PMCardiff$1091One-way0 transfers- 11:27 AM3h09Plymouth2:36 PMCardiff$1321One-way0 transfers
- 5:58 AM3h45Plymouth9:43 AMCardiff$1331One-way0 transfers
- 11:27 AM3h09Plymouth2:36 PMCardiff$1321One-way0 transfers
- 12:27 PM3h09Plymouth3:36 PMCardiff$911One-way0 transfers
- 5:58 AM3h45Plymouth9:43 AMCardiff$1331One-way0 transfers
- 8:27 AM3h52Plymouth12:19 PMCardiff$1091One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Plymouth to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a train costs an average of $80.
Distance: 87 miles (141 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
$123 Average price | $22 Average price Cheapest |
3h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration 4h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg 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
Plymouth to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Cardiff trains for today, Friday, April 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C75323_C75008+P22622 | On time 7:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h13 | 10:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| P22601 · P23220 | On time 7:35 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h42 | 11:17 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C75334+P22624 | On time 8:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h10 | 11:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| P23006+C75304+P22625 | On time 8:42 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h34 | 12:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| C75336+P23221 | On time 9:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 2h55 | 12:22 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C75339+P22628 | On time 10:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY) | 3h10 | 1:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Plymouth to Cardiff by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Sat
Apr 04
Apr 04
Sun
Apr 05
Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
Apr 06
Tue
Apr 07
Apr 07
Wed
Apr 08
Apr 08
Thu
Apr 09
Apr 09
Fri
Apr 10
Apr 10
Why should you book Plymouth to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western and more offer trains services from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Cardiff.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country or first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Plymouth to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Plymouth to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $80 (€65) but you can travel from only $12 (€9) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 3h 9m.
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
Bus from $12 (€9)
Distance 87 miles (141 km) |
Average train duration 3h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $80 (€65) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 9m |
First train 4:54 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
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
Bus from $12 (€9)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western from Plymouth to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Plymouth and Cardiff from $12 (€9). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$107 (€87)
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
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
3h 9m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€65)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
$222 (€181)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
$122 (€99)
first_great_western frequency
13 a day
FAQs: Trains from Plymouth to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth 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.
Train ticket prices from Plymouth to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $80 (€65), while the average price is around $123 (€100).
The train from Plymouth to Cardiff takes 3h 9m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Cardiff is 87 miles (141 km).
The first train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 4:54 AM.
The last train from Plymouth to Cardiff leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Plymouth to Cardiff. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by first_great_western.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to Cardiff.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Cardiff is Plymouth station (PLY), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $12 (€9).
The train journey from Plymouth to Cardiff offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along the South Devon coast and through the picturesque landscapes of the Severn Estuary. Passengers can enjoy glimpses of rolling hills, charming villages, and coastal vistas.
A day trip from Plymouth to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 9m. Trains run 6 times per day.
In Cardiff, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Attend performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, or take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay. For adventure, visit Cardiff International White Water for rafting and kayaking. Shop and dine at Cardiff Market. Discover history at Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore art and culture at the National Museum Cardiff, and relax in Bute Park. Cardiff Bay also offers dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
A visit of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore Cardiff's main attractions, such as Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and Cardiff Bay, while allowing time for leisure and dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Since neither Plymouth nor Cardiff are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Plymouth to Cardiff
Plymouth
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Plymouth is Plymouth. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Plymouth for your trip from Plymouth to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:25 - 20:00 Saturday 05:20 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:30
Shopping
- Type of shops available: WHSmith and Spar Supermarket
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and the station subway. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4, Platform 7 and adjacent ticket counters.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Within accessible wc's
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platforms 3 and 4
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Plymouth
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Devonport
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Albert Road Bus Stop adjacent to Exmouth Road.
Dockyard
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Dockyard
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the bus stops on Keyham Road (B3396) near the turning to Keat Street
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from Plymouth.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost 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 transit 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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information 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 transit 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation 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 transit 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
Most popular train connections from Plymouth
More options for your journey from Plymouth to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Plymouth
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