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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Leeds
Showing times and prices for Dec 06
Cheapest price
€51
Average price
€68
Fastest journey
4 h 17 m
Average duration
4 h 46 m
Trains per day
5
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 €68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €51.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cardiff for Leeds on Sat, Dec 06, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Dec 06 the direct trains cover the 280 km distance in an average of 4 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 17 m .
On Sat, Dec 06 the slowest trains will take 5 h 17 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.
07:54AM5h17
Cardiff01:11PMLeeds
€511One-way
0 transfers
08:45AM4h53
Cardiff01:38PMLeeds
€571One-way
0 transfers
08:53AM5h18
Cardiff02:11PMLeeds
€731One-way
0 transfers
05:43AM5h07
Cardiff10:50AMLeeds
€741One-way
0 transfers
04:45PM4h18
Cardiff09:03PMLeeds
€861One-way
0 transfers
09:45AM4h17
Cardiff02:02PMLeeds
€971One-way
0 transfers
04:45PM4h18
Cardiff09:03PMLeeds
€861One-way
0 transfers
08:45AM4h53
Cardiff01:38PMLeeds
€571One-way
0 transfers
05:43AM5h07
Cardiff10:50AMLeeds
€741One-way
0 transfers
07:54AM5h17
Cardiff01:11PMLeeds
€511One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Leeds
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Leeds among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €15, and a train costs an average of €48.
Distance: 280 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€76 Average price | €26 Average price Cheapest |
4h 53m Average total duration Fastest 4h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 14m Average total duration 6h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Leeds train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Leeds trains for today, Friday, December 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 5:36 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C23366 · C23658 | On time 8:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h16 | 1:01 PM Leeds station (LDS) | 1 transfer | |
G56072+ C27260 | On time 8:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 5h17 | 2:10 PM Leeds station (LDS) | 1 transfer | |
| G56072+C26390 | On time 8:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h56 | 1:49 PM Leeds station (LDS) | 1 transfer | |
| C23399_C23661 | 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h16 | 2:01 PM Leeds station (LDS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 P08480+C23661 | On time 9:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h12 | 2:01 PM Leeds station (LDS) | 1 transfer | |
| G56051+C26387 | On time 9:53 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
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Leeds by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Sat
Dec 06
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12
Dec 12
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Leeds
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Leeds run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €48 but you can travel from only €15 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:11, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 280 km distance in 4h 16m.
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 €15
Distance 280 km |
Average train duration 4h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price €48 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 16m |
First train 02:11 |
Last train 23:47 |
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 €15
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Leeds trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Leeds from €15. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
4h 47m
Cheapest Price
€48
Transport for Wales frequency
4 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
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
4h 17m
Cheapest Price
€57
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
€264
Cross Country frequency
3 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 7m
Cheapest Price
€274
first_great_western frequency
9 a day
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.
On average the Cardiff to Leeds train travel time is 4 h 42 min for the 280 km long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cardiff to Leeds leaves at 04: 33. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Cardiff to Leeds leaves at 16: 49.
There are 13 trains a day from Cardiff to Leeds which require at least one change with CrossCountry or Transport for Wales. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
For the best Cardiff to Leeds train to book, you can travel safely and comfortably with CrossCountry or Transport for Wales. However, it's always good to check all possible train companies with services from Cardiff to Leeds to compare what amenities they may offer.
When departing from Cardiff, you have various train station options to start your trip from including Cardiff Central and Cardiff Queen Street. When arriving in Leeds, you can end your route in train stations like Leeds and Yeadon, Leeds Bradford Airport Bus.
Passengers board the train most frequently from Cardiff Central, which is located around 1.1 miles (1.8 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Leeds, located 0.2 miles (364 m) away from the city centre.
The cheapest month to travel from Cardiff to Leeds by train is March.
Yes, you can take a coach from Cardiff to Leeds.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Leeds
Cardiff
Leeds
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your trip from Cardiff to Leeds.
Birchgrove
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Birchgrove
- Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Cathays
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
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
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit 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 Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
- Car Park: No
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
- 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
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit 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.
The major train station for arrivals in Leeds is Burley Park. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Burley Park for your journey to Leeds from Cardiff.
Burley Park
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B station, Persons in wheelchairs can gain easy access onto both platforms. However to get onto the Harrogate bound platform you have to go a long way round it will take approx 5-7 minutes.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Cards Only - No Cash Accepted
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Burley Park
- Onward travel information: Bus stops located 5 mins away from station. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick up / drop off on Ashville Road adjacent to the station entrance towards Harrogate, opposite the station entrance towards Leeds.
- Metro: 0113 245 7676
Headingley
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A station. The conductor will carry out any assistance, please wait on the platform. This station has recently benefitted from the installation of lifts, level access to platform 1 with platform 2 being accessible using the lift and a short subway.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Headingley
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop close to the station. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the Bus Stops on Kirkstall Lane close to the junction with the station approach road. (Station side for Leeds, opposite side for Harrogate)
- Metro: WYPTE 0113 245 7676
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Car RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 04:45 - 23:59
- Sun: 06:45 - 22:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Located on the main concourse. Services provided by Excess Baggage Co, open daily from 08:00 until 21:00.
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
- Bagel Factory
- Caffè Nero
- KFC
- Leon
- McDonald's
- The Pasty Shop
- Starbucks
- Pret a Manger
- JD Wetherspoon
- Delice de France
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank outside New Station Street entrance near the bus interchange.
- Accessible taxis: Taxi rank outside New Station Street entrance near the bus interchange.
Accessibility
- There are elevators or level access to all platforms in the whole station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
WC
- Toilets Location: Baby changing facilities are located in the accessible toilet on platform 12 on the South Concourse
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Center
- The Queens Hotel
- Leeds Marriott Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 04:45 - 23:59
- Sun: 06:45 - 22:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platform 0 / 1 Platform 6 / 8 behind the lift Platform 12 / 15 Short stay car park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Located on the North Concourse near the Wellington Street entrance. Open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Public transit options for Leeds
- Bus lines: 1, 16, 201, 229, 34, 5, 60, A1
- Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Leeds
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leeds and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Leeds
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