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Cheap train tickets from Birmingham to Cardiff

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Birmingham to Cardiff Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

15 trains operate daily from Birmingham to Cardiff. The train trip from Birmingham to Cardiff is usually about 2 hours and 4 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest CrossCountry train can get you there in as little as one hour and 48 minutes.

Distance88 mi (142 km)
Fastest train1h 48m
Lowest price$27.69
Trains per day16
Most frequent serviceCrossCountry
Train lines1

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Which train should you take from Birmingham to Cardiff?

CrossCountry is the one and only train line which connects Birmingham to Cardiff. However, there are 15 trains per day to choose from.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
CrossCountry152h 4m$45.68
  • CrossCountry operates an extensive rail network in the U.K., centered in Birmingham. In standard class, passengers enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms. Trains also contain a small café or a trolley that passes through the carriages. An upgrade to first-class gives passengers more legroom and complimentary food. The journey from Birmingham to Cardiff usually takes about 2 hours and 4 minutes on a CrossCountry train. There are 15 trips on this route every day, and 20 daily trips on weekends.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Birmingham to Cardiff

The distance between Birmingham and Cardiff is approximately 88 miles, or 142 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 4 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 hour 48 minutes. As a relatively short ride, taking the train is an easy way to travel between these two cities.

Trains from Birmingham to Cardiff are the most crowded on Sunday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

The earliest train departs Birmingham at 5:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

There are 15 scheduled trains on most days. 16 of these are direct connections to Cardiff. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Cardiff to Birmingham.

City Information

Birmingham

As the second-largest city in the UK, Birmingham effortlessly blends the city’s quaint vibe with modern-day high-rises. One of the top local attractions is St. Martin in the Bull Ring, the original parish church of Birmingham. Featuring remarkable Gothic Revival architecture standing in stark contrast with the futuristic-looking shopping centers, the church is a great spot for travelers looking for a bit of respite. As you stroll around the city, don’t forget to visit the famous Cadbury World, which details the long history of the brand, as well as all the products it produces. For culturally-inclined activities, head to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, which offers over 40 exhibits.

If you wish to try out authentic Indian dishes with a local twist, head over to Pushkar. For those who wish to enjoy a more upscale dining experience, Bank offers a chic menu in an elegant setting.

The principal rail station is Birmingham New Street Station, which is the busiest train station in the UK. The Birmingham Coach Station offers coach services by National Express as far as London and Dublin. The city’s main airport is the Birmingham Airport, which is located 6 miles east of the city center.

Cardiff

Cardiff, UK - GBJCN-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Cardiff, UK - GBJCN-1

Image credit: Unsplash

Cardiff, UK - GBJCN-2

Image credit: Unsplash

Cardiff is the capital of Wales, as well as its largest city. Although the city was initially founded as a Roman fort, Cardiff has glided effortlessly into the 21st century, offering tourists a diverse mix of old and new.

Looking to explore the city's history? Cardiff Castle at the heart of the city makes for an exciting day out, where visitors can learn about the fascinating 2,000 years of history that the castle represents.

If the castle gets you in the mood to explore more history, the St Fagans National Museum of History will surely satisfy your historical appetite. As one of Europe's leading open-air museums, the museum offers historical attractions that detail history back to the Celtic era.

For those seeking a more modern experience, Cardiff boasts a fantastic selection of shops and cafes, with Cardiff Central Market as the top choice for retail therapy.

Cardiff has excellent transport links, making it an easy place to visit no matter where you're coming from. Cardiff Airport provides access for visitors traveling from off the island, while high-speed rail services make access to and from London simple. Cardiff Central Station also offers direct routes from Bristol, Bath, Manchester, Nottingham, as well as other main cities and towns.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Birmingham?

Main departure station: University (Birmingham)

There are two stations in Birmingham where you can board the train to Cardiff.

All train stations in Birmingham:

  • University (Birmingham)

  • Birmingham New St

Where is the train station in Cardiff?

Cardiff Central  - GBJCNGBREZ2-0

Image credit: Hugh Llewelyn

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Main arrival station: Cardiff Central

Cardiff Central Station is the largest and busiest rail terminal in Wales and one of two primary train stations in Cardiff. A registered historic building, it first opened in 1850 but is known for its art deco concourse and north entrance, both added in the 1930s. Most facilities are in the main concourse, including ATMs, food outlets, and a newsagent. Transport for Wales operates services to south, central, and north Wales, while Cross Country runs hourly services to Gloucester, Birmingham, and Derby. Great Western operates the route to London Paddington via Bristol Parkway.

All train stations in Cardiff:

  • Cardiff Central

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