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How to travel by train from Manchester to Cardiff
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Manchester to Cardiff by train
Take the straightforward journey from north-west England to South Wales
Routes you can take to go from Manchester to Cardiff
When travelling between most cities by train there is only one logical option, though on other journeys there is a choice between different trains or alternative routes. If different options are available you can use the info to decide which is best for you.
Choose one of the following options:
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Route Information
Travel Time (approx)
3hr 15min (approx)
Frequency
Daily
Travel Info
n1 x train per hour
Is this journey from Manchester to Cardiff direct?
Yes
Is the journey scenic?
It is very pleasant, particularly between Shrewsbury and Newport
When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Cardiff-Central?
- Before 10:00 on Monday to Saturday
- Before 13:20 on Sunday
Source: National Rail
How easy is it to travel on from the station in Cardiff?
Cardiff Central is located more than a half a kilometer from the city centre - See the Station Guide above for more info - plus easy access to multiple options for booking somewhere to stay in the area.
When is the usual approximate latest departure from from Manchester Piccadilly?
Around 20:30 daily
How easy is it to travel to the station in Manchester?
Manchester Piccadilly is located on the eastern edge of the heart of the city - See the Station Guide above for more info, including the connections by tram; Plus easy access to multiple options for booking somewhere to stay in the area around Piccadilly station..
Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for this journey option?
Yes
How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for this journey option?
12 weeks; See the Ticket Information for more details
What are the child ticket terms for the journey from Manchester to Cardiff?
Aged 5 to 15 = 50%; 4 and under = free
Does the ticket for the for this journey option include assigned seats?
Varies according to the type of ticket being booked, but Yes when booking Advance Tickets; See the Ticket Information for more details
Do rail pass users need to book reservations for the journey from Manchester to Cardiff?
No
Is catering available on the train?
A catering trolley should be taken through the Standard Class coaches.
On the departures on which the Premier Trains are used, there is a full meal service available in First Class - See the 'Journey Information,
What else is good to know?
See the general guide to travelling in Britain by train.
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