Cardiff to Bristol train with Great Western Rail

Wed, 10 Dec
+ Add return
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
first_great_western
Eurostar
1,000+ travel companies
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
first_great_western
Eurostar
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Bristol

Showing times and prices for 11 Dec

Cheapest price

$33

Average price

$33

Fastest journey

49 m

Average duration

51 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

41 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Bristol is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Bristol will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $33.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Cardiff for Bristol every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 41 km distance in an average of 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 49 m .

The slowest trains will take 53 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.

Great Western RailP08911
09:00AM0h51
Cardiff Central (CDF)
09:51AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$331One-way
0 changes
Great Western RailP08478+CrossCountryC23735
08:37AM0h53
Cardiff Central (CDF)
09:30AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$331One-way
1 change
Great Western RailP08385
09:28AM0h49
Cardiff Central (CDF)
10:17AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$331One-way
0 changes
Great Western RailP08383
08:27AM0h52
Cardiff Central (CDF)
09:19AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$331One-way
0 changes
Great Western RailP08479+CrossCountryC23737
09:19AM0h53
Cardiff Central (CDF)
10:12AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
$331One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Bristol

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Bristol among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 1h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $11.

Distance: 41 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

$28

Average Price

$11

Average Price

Cheapest

1h 49m

Average total duration

1h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Great Western Rail

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cardiff to Bristol train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bristol trains for today, Wednesday, 10 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 5:57 am
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
great_westernP08910
On time
8:00 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h52
8:52 am Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
0 changesdirect
great_westernP08383
On time
8:27 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h52
9:19 am Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
0 changesdirect
great_westernP08478+cross_countryC23735
On time
8:37 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h53
9:30 am Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
1 change
great_westernP08911
On time
9:00 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h51
9:51 am Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
0 changesdirect
great_westernP08479+cross_countryC23737
On time
9:19 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h53
10:12 am Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
1 change
great_westernP08385
On time
9:28 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h49
10:17 am Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Bristol by train or coach

Compare train and coach 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.

Wed
10 Dec
Thu
11 Dec
Fri
12 Dec
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Bristol?

The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Bristol is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Bristol route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Bristol per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cardiff to Bristol.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Bristol

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Bristol run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 but you can travel from only $7 by coach.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 27m.

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
Coach from $7
Distance
41 km
Average train duration
1h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
$11
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
27m
First train
00:30
Last train
23:41
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
Coach from $7

Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, first_great_western from Cardiff to Bristol trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Bristol from $7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Rail

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
27m
Cheapest Price
$18
Great Western Rail frequency
8 a day
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
2h 12m
Cheapest Price
$18
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$27
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

first_great_western

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
46m
Cheapest Price
$45
first_great_western frequency
50 a day

FAQs: Cardiff to Bristol train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Bristol 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 Bristol, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Cardiff to Bristol can start from as little as $6 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cardiff to Bristol is $21; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Cardiff to Bristol is 45 min   to travel the 40 km long trip, with around there are 7 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cardiff to Bristol leaves at 4: 53am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Cardiff to Bristol leaves at 11: 41pm.
Yes, there are 6 direct trains a day from Cardiff to Bristol with Great Western Rail or first_great_western. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
For the trip from Cardiff to Bristol you can take a train with Great Western Rail, CrossCountry or first_great_western. Be sure to check out all possible train providers that offer services between Cardiff and Bristol on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Cardiff Central, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Bristol Temple Meads, located away from the city centre.

A day trip to Bristol from Cardiff is worth doing with a journey time of 45 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cardiff to Bristol is August.
You have options as you can travel from Cardiff to Bristol 2 different ways: train or coach.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Bristol

Cardiff
Bristol
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your trip from Cardiff to Bristol.
BirchgroveParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transport options for Birchgrove
  • Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Cardiff BayParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
  • 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.
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Bay
  • Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
CathaysParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transport 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

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Bristol

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsCardiff to Bristol train

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