Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly train prices and times
Planning a journey from Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly? Trip.com offers train tickets starting from as low as £8.45, with average prices for this route around £23.20. To ensure you get the most affordable fares, we suggest exploring alternatives like split tickets.
- Thu, Apr 3From £11.80
- Fri, Apr 4From £8.45
- Sat, Apr 5From £16.90
- Sun, Apr 6
- Mon, Apr 7
- Tue, Apr 8
- Wed, Apr 9
Departs | Arrives | Duration | Operator | Find Tickets |
---|---|---|---|---|
04:33 Cardiff Central | 08:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 3h 40m, Direct | ![]() | Find Tickets |
05:49 Cardiff Central | 09:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 3h 24m, Direct | ![]() | Find Tickets |
06:24 Cardiff Central | 09:59 Manchester Piccadilly | 3h 35m, No direct | ![]() ![]() | Find Tickets |
06:39 Cardiff Central | 10:29 Manchester Piccadilly | 3h 50m, No direct | ![]() | Find Tickets |
06:46 Cardiff Central | 10:13 Manchester Piccadilly | 3h 27m, Direct | ![]() | Find Tickets |
07:23 Cardiff Central | 10:59 Paris | 3h 36m, No direct | ![]() ![]() | Find Tickets View More Trains |
Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly train route details





Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly: everything you need to know
Setting off from Cardiff Central
Cardiff Central Station is the heart of the capital's transport network, offering excellent connections to destinations across Wales and beyond. With regular services to London, Bristol, and other major cities, it’s an ideal departure point for both business and leisure travel. The station's central location makes it easily accessible, and its modern facilities ensure a smooth start to your journey.
What to expect on your journey to Manchester Piccadilly
The average journey duration from Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly typically ranges from three to four hours, while the fastest direct journey, offered by Transport for Wales, takes approximately three hours and 20 minutes with thirteen stops, covering a distance of about 145 miles (233 km).
The average cost of train tickets from Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly ranges from £30 to £50. However, by booking in advance or travelling during off-peak times, tickets can be as affordable as £19.80, making for more economical travel options. Along your journey, you can choose to disembark at interesting and notable stops such as Newport (South Wales), Hereford, Shrewsbury, and Crewe.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly, you’ll be close to the lively Northern Quarter, where you can explore independent shops and enjoy delicious food and coffee. The nearby Manchester Art Gallery is a great spot for art lovers, and for those who prefer outdoor spaces, the Piccadilly Gardens provides a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the city. It’s a perfect location to start your exploration of Manchester.
How to book cheap train tickets from Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly

Travelling in off-peak train times

Using the Railcard for 1/3 off

Split Tickets to save an average extra 30%

Book in advance to save an average of 61%

Group travels to save 1/3
Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket types
Save money on your trip from Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly with suitable train tickets. It's a great way to spend less!
Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak tickets
These two types of tickets are specifically for use during off-peak and super off-peak times, with cheaper prices, making them suitable for those who enjoy leisure travel.
Return train tickets
Valid for both an outward and return journey from the same destination on your chosen route.
Advance train tickets
Typically, the most cost-effective option for train travel. They are usually available for purchase 12 weeks before the travel date.
Season train tickets
These allow unlimited travel between two stations and can save you over 1/3 on train fares.
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