Trains from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)
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Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train
It takes an average of 9h 23m to travel from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train, over a distance of around 309 miles (498 km). There are normally 68 trains per day travelling from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) and tickets for this journey start from £47.40 when you book in advance.
| First train | 03:24 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:20 | |
| Departure station | Cardiff Central | |
| Arrival station | Edinburgh (Waverley) | |
| Journey time | From 5h 59m | |
| Distance | 309 miles (498 km) | |
| Frequency | 68 trains per day | |
| Changes | 1 change | |
| Price | From £47.40 | |
| Train operators | CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, TransPennine Express, ScotRail, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway, Transport for Wales, Lumo |
Travelling from Cardiff to Edinburgh by train
There are no direct trains running from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh. However, there's an option to use CrossCountry and change at Birmingham New Street, where an Avanti West Coast (formerly Virgin Trains) service will take you all the way to Edinburgh Waverley.
CrossCountry trains come with a First Class carriage, which features free WiFi and complimentary refreshments. For those travelling in Standard, there's a small fee to use the WiFi. There's also a Quiet Coach on most CrossCountry services if you're looking for a little peace and quiet during your journey.
For more information, visit our CrossCountry page.
All Avanti West Coast (formerly Virgin Trains) offer WiFi (complimentary in First Class) and can carry up to four bikes free of charge, a service that has to be reserved in advance. All services offer First Class seating, with upgrades available on weekends and bank holidays.
Cardiff to Edinburgh Route Information
Train journeys from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh Waverley offer some beautiful views for passengers. The train from Cardiff to Birmingham crosses the South of Wales and heads into the West of England, passing through Gloucestershire towns such as Cheltenham Spa and Gloucester, before climbing north into the Midlands and reaching Birmingham New Street.
Make sure to grab a window seat on your next train in order to see the amazing views of the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District before heading into the Lowlands of Scotland, finally reaching your destination of Edinburgh.
Journey details
Want to know more about your journey from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) take?
The average journey time by train between Cardiff Central and Edinburgh (Waverley) is 9 hours and 23 minutes, with around 68 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Cardiff Central and Edinburgh (Waverley) by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) is 5 hours and 59 minutes.
How much does the train from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) cost?
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) can start from as little as £47.40 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
No, there are no direct train services from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley). Travelling from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
What time does the first train from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) leave?
The first train from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) leaves at 03:24. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) leave?
The last train from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) leaves at 23:20. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Cardiff Central and Edinburgh (Waverley) by train?
Trains travelling from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) cover a distance of around 309 miles (498 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Cardiff Central.
Cheap train tickets from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)
Book in advance
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Consider a Season Ticket
If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Cardiff Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) is right for you.
Use your Railcard
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.
Split your tickets
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For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.