Cardiff to Glasgow train with Avanti West Coast

Tue, 09 Dec
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
first_great_western
1,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
first_great_western
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Glasgow

Showing times and prices for 11 Dec

Cheapest price

$94

Average price

$159

Fastest journey

6 h 24 m

Average duration

6 h 27 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

493 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Glasgow will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $94.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Cardiff for Glasgow every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 493 km distance in an average of 6 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 24 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 32 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.

Transport for Wales
04:49AM8h50
Cardiff
01:39PMGlasgow
$941One-way
0 changes
Transport for Wales
06:53AM7h55
Cardiff
02:48PMGlasgow
$1191One-way
0 changes
Transport for Wales
08:53AM6h46
Cardiff
03:39PMGlasgow
$1681One-way
0 changes
Avanti West Coast
07:53AM6h24
Cardiff
02:17PMGlasgow
$1831One-way
0 changes
Avanti West Coast
05:46AM6h29
Cardiff
12:15PMGlasgow
$2301One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach and train for Cardiff to Glasgow

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Glasgow among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $79.

Distance: 493 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

$175

Average Price

$68

Average Price

Cheapest

7h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 11m

Average total duration

11h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Glasgow train times

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

Last updated at 4:51 am
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
cross_countryC23366+avanti_west_coastW10508
On time
8:45 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h32
3:17 pm Glasgow Central (GLC)
1 change
transport_for_walesG56072+avanti_west_coastW10508
On time
8:53 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h24
3:17 pm Glasgow Central (GLC)
1 change
transport_for_walesG56051+avanti_west_coastW10514+transpennine_expressC27291
On time
9:53 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h46
4:39 pm Glasgow Central (GLC)
2 changes
cross_countryC23489+avanti_west_coastP00492
On time
10:45 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h36
5:21 pm Glasgow Central (GLC)
1 change
transport_for_walesG56080+avanti_west_coastP00492
On time
10:53 am Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h28
5:21 pm Glasgow Central (GLC)
1 change

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Glasgow by coach or train

Compare coach and train 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.

Thu
11 Dec
Fri
12 Dec
Sat
13 Dec
Sun
14 Dec
Mon
15 Dec
Tue
16 Dec
Wed
17 Dec
Thu
18 Dec
Fri
19 Dec
Sat
20 Dec
Sun
21 Dec
Mon
22 Dec
Tue
23 Dec
Wed
24 Dec
Thu
25 Dec
Fri
26 Dec
Sat
27 Dec
Sun
28 Dec
Mon
29 Dec
Tue
30 Dec
Wed
31 Dec

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Glasgow?

The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Glasgow is 14 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Glasgow route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Glasgow 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 Glasgow.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Glasgow

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Glasgow run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $79 but you can travel from only $28 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 18:40. The fastest train covers the 493 km distance in 6h 24m.

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 $28
Distance
493 km
Average train duration
6h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$79
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
6h 24m
First train
04:08
Last train
18:40
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 $28

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Glasgow trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Glasgow from $28. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 18m
Cheapest Price
$94
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
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
8h 6m
Cheapest Price
$157
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
6h 46m
Cheapest Price
$79
Transport for Wales frequency
2 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 27m
Cheapest Price
$474
Cross Country frequency
4 a day

first_great_western

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 23m
Cheapest Price
$598
first_great_western frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Cardiff to Glasgow train

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

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Cardiff to Glasgow can start from as little as $117 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cardiff to Glasgow is $261; 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 Glasgow is 6 h 22 min   to travel the 492 km long journey, with around there are 5 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cardiff to Glasgow leaves at 4: 33am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Cardiff to Glasgow leaves at 4: 53pm.
There are 5 trains a day from Cardiff to Glasgow which require at least one change with Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, TransPennine Express, Cross Country or first_great_western. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
When taking a train from Cardiff to Glasgow, you can count on Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, TransPennine Express, Cross Country or first_great_western for the best way to get you to Glasgow. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service from Cardiff to Glasgow and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
The cheapest month for a train from Cardiff to Glasgow is September.
You have options as you can travel to Glasgow from Cardiff 2 different ways: coach or train.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Glasgow

Cardiff
Glasgow
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Bay. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Bay for your trip from Cardiff to Glasgow.
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
Cardiff Queen StreetParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
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, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards.
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: to the right of the station front
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cardiff Queen Street
  • Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Glasgow

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

HomeTrainsCardiff to Glasgow train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone