Derby to Cardiff train with CrossCountry

Sat, Sep 19
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Derby to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

€40

Average ticket price on Sep 19

€59

Fastest journey on Sep 19

2 h 44 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

2 h 46 m

Trains on Sep 19

6

Distance

198 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Derby to Cardiff will cost around €59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €40.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 6 trains from Derby to Cardiff, including 4 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 198 km distance in an average of 2 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 44 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 48 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.

  • CrossCountryG01097
    8:40 AM2h45
    Derby station (DBY)
    11:25 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    401One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01106
    11:38 AM2h47
    Derby station (DBY)
    2:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    401One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01103
    10:41 AM2h44
    Derby station (DBY)
    1:25 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    401One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01100
    9:38 AM2h48
    Derby station (DBY)
    12:26 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    401One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryW29924 · G01139+Transport for WalesG39599
    8:53 AM3h06
    Derby station (DBY)
    11:59 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
    691One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Derby to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Derby to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €31 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 7m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €31, while a train costs an average of €83.

Distance: 198 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

€83

Average price

€31

Average price

Cheapest

€57

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 30m

Average total duration

6h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 0m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Derby to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of €45.

This is compared to other travel options from Derby to Cardiff:

A bus is €38 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Derby to Cardiff costing on average €83.

The fastest way to travel from Derby to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 37m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Derby and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.

Live departures

Derby to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Derby to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG010978:40 AM Derby station (DBY)
2h45
11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryW29924 · G01139+Transport for WalesG395998:53 AM Derby station (DBY)
3h06
11:59 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
CrossCountryG011009:38 AM Derby station (DBY)
2h48
12:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG0110310:41 AM Derby station (DBY)
2h44
1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryW29867+Great Western RailwayW3462311:31 AM Derby station (DBY)
2h46
2:17 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
CrossCountryG0110611:38 AM Derby station (DBY)
2h47
2:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Derby to Cardiff by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Derby to Cardiff trains with Omio?

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

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 or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Derby to Cardiff.
  • 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Derby to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Derby to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Derby to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €31 but you can travel from only €22 by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:32. The fastest train covers the 198 km distance in 2h 43m.

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 €22
Distance
198 km
Average train duration
2h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
€31
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 43m
First train
5:07 AM
Last train
9:32 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
3 days
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 €22

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Derby to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Derby and Cardiff from €22. 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
2h 43m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€31
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
3h 9m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
€87
Transport for Wales frequency
2 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
€145
Cross Country frequency
16 a day

FAQs: Trains from Derby to Cardiff

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

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Derby to Cardiff can start from as little as €37 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Derby to Cardiff is €83; 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 Derby to Cardiff is 2h 22m to travel the 198 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 Derby to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Derby to Cardiff leaves at 9:32 PM.
Yes,there are 2 direct trains a day from Derby to Cardiff with Cross Country. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Derby to Cardiff, you can count on CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Derby and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Derby is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 22m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Derby to Cardiff is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Derby and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Derby to Cardiff

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

Departure train stations in Derby
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Derby station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Derby to Cardiff leave from Derby. The station is 1 km from Derby city centre at Derby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Derby from Derby city centre

Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · €2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · €1 · every ~2 min

Derby train station facilities and services

Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Derby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Derby.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Derby.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Derby: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, 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 toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Most popular train connections from Derby

More options for your journey from Derby to Cardiff

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

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone