Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
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Each fare is the lowest adult economy ticket fare found by our customers on Trainline. Fares booked further in advance than the dates displayed may be cheaper. Prices are updated daily, subject to change and indicative of price last update. Limited availability. Discount cards and coach journeys excluded, prices exclusive of booking fee.
Trains to Manchester from Cardiff Central
It takes an average of 3h 29m to travel from Cardiff Central to Manchester by train, over a distance of around 144 miles (232 km). There are normally 29 trains per day travelling from Cardiff Central to Manchester and tickets for this journey start from £25.50 when you book in advance.
| First train | 03:18 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 20:10 | |
| Departure station | Cardiff Central | |
| Arrival station | Manchester | |
| Journey time | From 3h 18m | |
| Distance | 144 miles (232 km) | |
| Frequency | 29 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £25.50 | |
| Train operators |
What are the train times from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
Get from Cardiff Central to Manchester in as little as 3 hours 18 minutes on the fastest trains, so you can make the most of your time.
The average train journey from Cardiff Central to Manchester takes around 3 hours 29 minutes. There are around 29 trains that operate on this route daily.
There are direct trains running on this popular route from Cardiff Central to Manchester every day.
Transport for Wales trains run on this route.
Tickets for this journey start from £25.50. Booking in advance often results in cheaper ticket prices.
With our Journey Planner, you can check live train times, compare prices and check routes.
What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
Want to know more about your journey from Cardiff Central to Manchester? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Is there a direct train from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
How far is Manchester from Cardiff Central by train?
Can I get from Cardiff Central to Manchester without flying?
What is the best way to get from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
When is the first train from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
When is the last train from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
How often do trains run from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
How far in advance can I book tickets from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
Looking for a return trip from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
How do I find cheap train tickets from Cardiff Central to Manchester?
As most UK train companies increase their prices as the departure date approaches, our Trainline team of experts have put together these tips to help you find the cheapest tickets.
1. Book in advance
Train tickets from Cardiff Central to Manchester start at £25.50§ one way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. UK train companies usually release Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of time, and these can be cheaper than tickets bought on the day of travel.
2. Sign up to Ticket Alert
If you're planning a trip more than 12 weeks ahead, sign up to our Ticket Alert to get notified when Advance tickets are released for your travel date.
3. Use a Railcard
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel throughout the year. Buy one with us and you'll be able to store it digitally in our app, so you'll always have it on your travels.
4. Book split tickets
Our handy feature SplitSave will 'split' your train journey into multiple tickets, which can be much cheaper than buying a single ticket. Find out more about split tickets.
5. Travel Off-Peak
If you can be flexible with your travel times, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets are usually cheaper in the UK. Generally, Off-Peak times are any time at weekends and outside of Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.
6. Consider a Season Ticket
Best for commuters, if you catch a train on the same route more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly, weekly and flexi options available, find out if a Season Ticket for Cardiff Central to Manchester is right for you.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.
§Advance adult single fare. Excludes booking fee. Prices seen by Trainline customers in the last 30 days. Availability limited.