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Trains from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay

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Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Holyhead to Cardiff Bay

Trains to Cardiff Bay from Holyhead

First train

03:27

Last train

19:26

Departure stationHolyhead
Arrival stationCardiff Bay
Journey time

From 4h 58m

Distance

141 miles (228 km)

Frequency

10 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Train operators

Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales

What are the train times from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay?

Check out the next trains departing from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay for Tuesday 13th October 2026 using our handy timetable below, including platform and live travel information. You can view the full day timetable or search for a different date here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
08:5114:245h 33m, 3 changes
09:0515:066h 1m, 4 changes
10:3315:545h 21m, 2 changes
11:0117:066h 5m, 6 changes
11:0117:246h 23m, 4 changes
12:2517:545h 29m, 2 changes
12:4818:065h 18m, 3 changes
13:0219:066h 4m, 6 changes
13:0219:246h 22m, 4 changes
14:2519:545h 29m, 2 changes

Travel by train from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay

Looking to travel from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay by train? You've come to the right place!

Generally, the train from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay takes around 6 hours 7 minutes, but can take just 4 hours 58 minutes on the fastest services. There are up to 10 trains per day from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay.

You'll need to make 2 changes along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line.

Avanti West Coast and Transport for Wales trains operate on this route.

Booking early is one of the most effective ways to save money.

Start your search for train tickets from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay in our Journey Planner.

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay?

Want to know more about your journey from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Cardiff Bay from Holyhead?

To get to Cardiff Bay from Holyhead, why not take the train? With 10 trains per day and an average journey time of 6 hours and 7 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay by train?

On average, it takes around 6 hours and 7 minutes to travel from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay by train, although you can get there in 4 hours and 58 minutes on the fastest services. With 10 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay?

The fastest time a train can travel the 141 miles (228 km) from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay is 4 hours and 58 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay?

There are no direct trains that run between Holyhead and Cardiff Bay. You’ll need to make at least 2 changes along the way.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Holyhead to Cardiff Bay?

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. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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 Holyhead to Cardiff Bay 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.
† Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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