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Cardiff to Southampton train

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Cardiff - Southampton Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Cardiff to Southampton. Traveling by train from Cardiff to Southampton usually takes 3 hours and 2 minutes, but the fastest Great Western Railway train can make the trip in 2 hours and 52 minutes.

Distance86 mi (139 km)
Fastest train2h 52m
Lowest price$121.65
Most frequent serviceGreat Western Railway
Train lines1

Which train should you take from Cardiff to Southampton?

Great Western Railway is the one and only train line which connects Cardiff to Southampton. However, there are 4 trains per day to choose from.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Great Western Railway43h 2m$123.78
  • Great Western Railway is a train company in the United Kingdom responsible for rail services in the west of England and south Wales, including many intercity services to and from London. Whether you book a seat on a standard or first-class carriage, you can expect plenty of legroom, complimentary WiFi, power outlets/USB charging points, and onboard restrooms. There are also café cars or snacks trolleys onboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

The distance between Cardiff and Southampton is approximately 86 miles, or 139 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 2 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 52 minutes. Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.

Trains from Cardiff to Southampton 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 Cardiff at 5:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 3:00pm. 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 4 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.

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

City Information

Cardiff

Cardiff, UK - GBJCN-0

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Cardiff, UK - GBJCN-1

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Cardiff, UK - GBJCN-2

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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.

Southampton

Southampton - GBGMC-0

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Southampton - GBGMC-1

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Southampton - GBGMC-2

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Southampton is a scenic city along England's south coast, known for its history as an important port. No matter the time of year you visit, Southampton has a wealth of activities and attractions.

Your first stop is the SeaCity Museum, where you can discover the city's history and engage with the model of the RMS Titanic. Next, the Solent Sky Museum turns your attention skyward as it details Southampton's aviation history. The Southampton City Art Gallery is a hidden gem to view painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, print, and video exhibits. And if you’re on a tour of England’s premier league stadiums, Southampton’s St. Mary’s Stadium is a must.

For a unique dining experience, try the café at the Tudor House and Garden Museum. They serve local food and fantastic coffee in a home that's over 800 years old. Then, as you walk through the nearby Cultural Quarter, keep your eyes peeled for remnants of the city's medieval walls amidst the chic bars and stores.

Southampton Airport does serve international flights, but it's easy to reach Southampton even if you fly into one of London's airports. South Western Railway and Megabus provide train and bus service from London and other cities throughout the United Kingdom.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Cardiff?

Cardiff Central  - GBJCNGBREZ2-0

Image credit: Hugh Llewelyn

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Main 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 Southampton?

Main arrival station: Southampton Airport Parkway

Southampton receives travelers from Cardiff at its two active train stations.

All train stations in Southampton:

  • Southampton Airport Parkway

  • Botley Station

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