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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Cardiff to Nottingham. The train trip from Cardiff to Nottingham is usually about 3 hours and 46 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 133 mi (214 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 46m |
| Lowest price | $117.10 |
| Most frequent service | CrossCountry |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Cardiff to Nottingham?
CrossCountry is the one and only train line which connects Cardiff to Nottingham. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| CrossCountry | 2 | 3h 46m | $117.10 |
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 Cardiff to Nottingham usually takes about 3 hours and 46 minutes on a CrossCountry train. There are 2 trips on this route every day, and 0 daily trips on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Cardiff and Nottingham is approximately 133 miles, or 214 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 46 minutes,
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Trains from Cardiff to Nottingham are the most crowded on Tuesday. 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Cardiff at 1:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 2:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Cardiff twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you change trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Nottingham to Cardiff.
City Information
Cardiff
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
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.
Nottingham
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Nottingham is famous as Robin Hood's hometown, where he romped through Sherwood Forest and slept beneath the Major Oak. While you can still enjoy attractions as old as the 800 sandstone caves from the Dark Ages, modern-day Nottingham is a thriving shopping area that offers cricket, bowling, and dozens of cultural attractions.
If Robin Hood's story entices you, step back in time to reimagine the experience. The city's Robin Hood Town tour dives into Nottingham's rich history and highlights the life of Robin Hood, including the city's landmarks associated with him. Then, channel your own inner Robin Hood with an archery class in Sherwood Forest, or simply explore the forest's cycle trails on a bike.
After you've worked up an appetite, head to one of the top restaurants in Nottingham: Josephine's Tea Room and Café, The Wollaton Pub and Kitchen, and Bill's Restaurant and Bar. Cosy Club, The Cod's Scallops, and The Alchemist are excellent options for some lively libations.
Nottingham is easy to reach by either train or bus. Northern Rail and CrossCountry travel directly to Nottingham and connect to many other British train lines. In addition, FlixBus and Megabus provide bus service in the area. To reach Nottingham by flight, you'll arrive at East Midlands Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Cardiff?
Image credit: Hugh Llewelyn
Link to image attributionMain departure 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
Where is the train station in Nottingham?
Main arrival station: Carrington St
Nottingham has one train station.
All train stations in Nottingham:
Carrington St
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Need a return trip from Nottingham to Cardiff?
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