Edinburgh to Cardiff train travel explained

Want to know how to get from Edinburgh to Cardiff by train? We have gathered for you all the useful information about this trip!

The fastest trains from Edinburgh to Cardiff take around 5 hours and 45 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 499 kilometres.

On weekdays, the first train leaving Edinburgh is scheduled to depart at around  00:30. The last departure is usually at around 23:33 . On Saturdays and Sundays, trains leave Edinburgh at around 00:33, with the last train leaving at around 23:36. There are frequent services on this particular rail route. On average, there are about 32 trains per day travelling between the two cities. They leave approximately every 4 minutes.

Prices for a single ticket between the two cities start from £51.49.

We think any time is a great time to visit Cardiff, as each season has its own unique charm. Nevertheless, please make sure you check the local weather and average seasonal temperatures at destination before deciding on your holiday.

For more tips to help you plan your journey, check out our help articles, or read our guide to Cardiff.

Is there a direct train from Edinburgh to Cardiff?

The journey between Edinburgh and Cardiff usually involves one change of train.

We usually find at least one departure on the route from Edinburgh to Cardiff every weekday that leave enough time to change trains without waiting around for longer than necessary.

Trains are typically more frequent on weekends, when we found at least one departure.

How long does it take to travel from Edinburgh to Cardiff?

The Edinburgh to Cardiff train travel takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes, no matter when you leave.

What are the Edinburgh to Cardiff train times and schedule?

If you're travelling on a weekday, you'll find the earliest train to Cardiff leaving Edinburgh at around 00:30 and the last train leaving at around 23:33 . At weekends, the first train of the day leaves Edinburgh at around 00:33, with the final departure at 23:36.