Travelling from Rugby to Cardiff by train

Considering a train trip from Rugby to Cardiff? This guide will walk you through everything — from the best routes to finding the cheapest train tickets — so you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey.

Train cost between Rugby and Cardiff

Average fares along this route:

  • The cheapest ticket price: £73.87

  • Ticket price when booked 30 days in advance:

  • Ticket price when booked 7 days in advance:

Finding cheap train tickets

Booking in advance is clearly one of the easiest ways to save on tickets. Follow these other tips to find cheap train tickets for travel in Europe:

  • Opt for the basic, “no-frills” class of service (which is still sure to deliver a comfortable ride)

  • Travel with a budget train operator

  • Consider choosing a rail pass if you plan to travel extensively

  • Book off-peak fares (tickets are cheaper midweek and outside peak hours)

  • Select a non-flexible fare

  • Ride slower trains as opposed to the pricier high-speed fares

  • Subscribe to the Rail Europe newsletter to be notified about discounts.

And last but not least, compare ticket prices on Rail Europe. We automatically compile all ticket offers in one easy search so you can choose by price, timing or whatever is driving your journey.

Rugby to Cardiff daily train schedule

Whether you’re headed to Cardiff on a Tuesday or a Sunday, with 38 trains per day, you will have multiple options to choose from.

  • 01:00: departure of first train Monday-Friday

  • 23:59: departure of last train Monday-Friday

  • 06:38: departure of first train on weekends

  • 23:17: departure of last train on weekends

  • Every 18 minutes: frequency of train departures

Train travel time and distance from Rugby to Cardiff

Trains can complete this route in as little as 2 hours and 43 minutes. The total distance travelled is 166 kilometres.

How early can you book train tickets from Rugby to Cardiff?

Tickets on this route typically go on sale 5 months in advance. Booking early gives you access to the most competitive prices and ample seating options.

Maximising your travels to Cardiff

For a smooth travel experience, explore our help articles. Start planning your holiday and explore travel ideas in our city guide: Cardiff.

Frequently asked questions

How far is it from Rugby to Cardiff by train?

The trip from Rugby to Cardiff covers a distance of 166 kilometres.

How much does it cost to go from Rugby to Cardiff by train?

The cheapest fare for this route is £73.87. When booking 30 days in advance, tickets cost . A ticket bought 7 days before travel typically costs .

When can I start booking my Rugby to Cardiff train tickets?

You can purchase tickets for this route 5 months in advance.

What’s the travel time from Rugby to Cardiff by train?

The shortest trip is 2 hours and 43 minutes.