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    Kieran Read
    August 22,2025

    To travel from London to Cardiff by train, you can take a direct train from London Paddington to Cardiff Central. The journey takes approximately 1h 50m, although the fastest services can complete it in about 1h 43m. Train tickets can be purchased from around £43.00 when booked in advance.

    Here's a more detailed breakdown:

    Photo by Tiia Monto

    Direct Trains

    Great Western Railway

    You can find direct train services from London to Cardiff, operated by Great Western Railway.

    Train Stations

    Trains depart from London Paddington and arrive at Cardiff Central.

    Journey Time

    The average journey time is around 1h 50m, but the fastest services can reach Cardiff in just 1h 43m.

    First and Last Trains

    The first train usually departs around 05:23, and the last train departs at 23:32.

    Distance

    The distance between London and Cardiff by train is about 132 miles.

    Operators

    Great Western Railway is the primary train operator.

    Tickets/Cost/Fares

    Train tickets can be found from £43.00 when booked in advance, but prices may vary depending on the time of day and whether you book on the day of travel.

    Booking

    Trip.com is a good resource for checking train times, operators, and booking tickets.

    Payment and Ticketing

    Oyster cards and contactless payments are not accepted on these trains.

    Journey Planning

    To plan your specific journey, check the timetables and availability on Trip.com or the respective train operator websites.

    • Possible stops: The train may stop at various stations along the way, including Reading and Bristol Parkway.
    • Popular route: This is a well-travelled route, so it's recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you prefer a specific time or want to secure a cheaper fare.