Explore the city
Train Services in Cardiff
Cardiff, the capital of Wales, has a well-connected and efficient rail network, making train travel a convenient option for commuting, regional travel, and long-distance journeys. The city’s railway services cater to daily commuters, students, tourists, and business travelers, providing frequent and reliable transport links within Cardiff, across South Wales, and to major cities in the UK.
Main Operators
| Operators | Description |
|---|---|
| Transport for Wales (TfW) | The main train operator in Wales runs services across South Wales, North Wales, and beyond. Provides frequent commuter services within Cardiff and nearby towns such as Newport, Bridgend, and Merthyr Tydfil. Operates longer routes to destinations like Swansea, Holyhead, and Manchester. |
| Great Western Railway (GWR) | Runs high-speed services between Cardiff and London Paddington, with stops in Newport, Bristol, and Reading. Offers intercity connections to Swansea, Carmarthen, and West Wales. |
| CrossCountry | Provides long-distance services linking Cardiff to Birmingham, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Manchester. |
| Avanti West Coast | Offers limited services between Cardiff and North West England, including Crewe and Manchester. |
Train Stations
Cardiff has several railway stations, with Cardiff Central being the largest and busiest. Other key stations serve local and regional travel.
Cardiff Central Station
1. The main railway hub for Cardiff and South Wales.
2. Offers direct services to London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Swansea, and beyond.
3. Provides connections between local services and long-distance routes.
4. Facilities include ticket offices, waiting areas, food outlets, toilets, and accessibility features.
Cardiff Queen Street Station
1. A key station for local commuter trains and services to the east and north of the city.
2. Primarily serves Cardiff Bay, Cathays, and the Valleys lines.
3. Recently upgraded as part of the South Wales Metro project.
Top Stations
1. Cardiff Bay Station – Serves the Cardiff Bay area, with regular connections to Queen Street.
2. Cathays Station – Convenient for Cardiff University students and nearby residential areas.
3. Grangetown, Llandaff, Heath High-Level & Low-Level – Serve suburban and commuter routes.
Train Routes
Local & Regional Routes
- Cardiff – Newport – Chepstow – Gloucester
- Cardiff – Bridgend – Swansea – Carmarthen
- Cardiff – Merthyr Tydfil / Aberdare / Treherbert
- Cardiff – Rhymney – Bargoed – Caerphilly
- Cardiff – Barry – Llantwit Major – Bridgend
Long-Distance & National Routes
- Cardiff – London Paddington (GWR) – Fastest route in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Cardiff – Manchester (TfW & CrossCountry) – Connects South and North Wales.
- Cardiff – Birmingham – Nottingham – Sheffield (CrossCountry) – Links South Wales to the Midlands and North England.
Ticket & Payment System
| Tickets | Description |
|---|---|
| Advanced Tickets | Available in limited numbers |
| Anytime tickets | Flexible and low-cost |
| First-class tickets | Available for single and return travel |
| Off-peak tickets | Good value for travel after rush hour |
| Season tickets | Weekly or multiflex tickets |
| Multiflex tickets | 12 single journeys |
| Valleys Evening Return tickets | Valid for a certain time of travel |
| Type of Payments | Description |
|---|---|
| Contactless payment | Use the contactless card, mobile device, or smartwatch to pay at ticket offices and machines. |
| Credit or Debit Card | Use major credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and Amex. |
| Ticket Machines | Some ticket machines accept coins & notes. |
| Other Method | Use rail travel accounts to buy tickets. |
Accessibility & Sustainability
| Accessibility &Sustainability | Description |
|---|---|
| Accessible Stations & Trains | Step-free access, wheelchair-friendly spaces, and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. |
| Station Displays & Announcements | Reserved seating and support for those who need extra help. |
| Bike-Friendly Services | Bring your bike along with designated spaces on most trains. |
| Wheelchair Accessibility | Wheelchair accessibility for the one who needs this support. |