Cardiff to Leeds train with CrossCountry

Tue, Oct 20
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Leeds

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 20

Cheapest price on Oct 20

€46

Average ticket price on Oct 20

€82

Fastest journey on Oct 20

4 h 14 m

Average journey duration on Oct 20

4 h 16 m

Trains on Oct 20

12

Distance

280 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Leeds will cost around €82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €46.

Fast trains

On Tue, Oct 20, we found 12 trains from Cardiff to Leeds, including 1 direct services.

On Tue, Oct 20 the direct trains cover the 280 km distance in an average of 4 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 14 m .

On Tue, Oct 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 18 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 WalesG38945+Transpennine ExpressG15862
    6:46 AM5h02
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    11:48 AMLeeds station (LDS)
    €461One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38945+Transpennine ExpressC24597
    6:46 AM5h24
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:10 PMLeeds station (LDS)
    €531One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01067
    9:45 AM4h18
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:03 PMLeeds station (LDS)
    €561One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for WalesY62730+Transpennine ExpressC24590
    5:48 AM5h22
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    11:10 AMLeeds station (LDS)
    €611One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38967+Transpennine ExpressC24909
    8:55 AM4h53
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:48 PMLeeds station (LDS)
    €611One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Leeds

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Leeds run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €37 but you can travel from only €16 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:20, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 280 km distance in 3h 48m.

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
Bus from €16
Distance
280 km
Average train duration
4h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
€37
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 48m
First train
2:20 AM
Last train
11:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
1 day
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
Bus from €16

Live departures

Cardiff to Leeds train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Leeds trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesY62730+Transpennine ExpressC245905:48 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h22
11:10 AM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38945+Transpennine ExpressG158626:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h02
11:48 AM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38945+Transpennine ExpressC245976:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h24
12:10 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00938 · G010627:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h18
12:03 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01062+Great Western RailwayW351697:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h14
12:03 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38947+Transpennine ExpressC249047:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h55
12:48 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
CrossCountryG66712 · G010648:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h16
1:01 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
CrossCountryG66712 · G010648:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h16
1:01 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38967+Transpennine ExpressC249098:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h53
1:48 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
CrossCountryG010679:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h18
2:03 PM Leeds station (LDS)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00869_G01067+Great Western RailwayG150439:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h14
2:03 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38949+Transpennine ExpressG159559:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h55
2:48 PM Leeds station (LDS)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cardiff to Leeds trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Leeds.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Leeds.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Leeds.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Leeds.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Leeds.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Leeds.

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Leeds trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Leeds from €16. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 48m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€42
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 Transport for Wales Duration
4h 5m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
€37
Transport for Wales frequency
3 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

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Leeds

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

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Cardiff to Leeds can start from as little as €37 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cardiff to Leeds is €89; 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 Leeds is 3h 48m to travel the 280 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Cardiff to Leeds leaves at 2:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Cardiff to Leeds leaves at 11:35 PM.
Yes,there are 1 direct trains a day from Cardiff to Leeds with CrossCountry. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Cardiff to Leeds, you can count on CrossCountry, Transport for Wales for the best way to get you to Leeds. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Leeds and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Leeds from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 48m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Leeds including taking a train and bus.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Leeds

Most Cardiff to Leeds trains use the Cardiff Central to Leeds station pair, with some services arriving at Burley Park. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Leeds train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Leeds
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre

Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · €2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Central train station facilities and services

Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre

TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · €1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min

Cathays train station facilities and services

Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cathays.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cathays: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: 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.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre

Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · €2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services

Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: 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.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Leeds

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

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