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Cardiff, South Glamorgan to London, Greater London from $12: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cardiff, United Kingdom
to
London, United Kingdom

How to Get from Cardiff to London: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$12 RideshareBest price
213.4 kmDistance
1h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff to London with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
First Great Western Service
Train
Average Duration
1h  53m
Estimated price
$85-190
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
3h  8m
Estimated price
$12-26
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 213.4 km
Duration: 1h 53m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
4h  10m
Estimated price
$23-35
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$45-75

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $10 $9 $8 $9 $9 $10 $12
Train $60 $57 $53 $55 $54 $49 $55
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cardiff to London

The journey from Cardiff to London offers you a shift from the charming coastal atmosphere of Wales to the vibrant, bustling energy of England's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in London

London is home to diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Covent Garden
• Vibrant street performers and artists.
• Endless dining options and boutique shopping.
Shoreditch
• Known for its trendy galleries and street art.
• A hub for nightlife and innovative eateries.
Notting Hill
• Famous for its colorful houses and Portobello Market.
• A charming area with a rich cultural history.

Best Times To Visit London's Attractions

Planning your visit to London's top spots can enhance your experience.

The British Museum
Visiting on weekday mornings often means fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The Tower of London
Early mornings or late afternoons provide a quieter experience and stunning light for photos.
The London Eye
Consider visiting during weekdays in the off-peak season for shorter wait times.

London Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

London experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters, making it essential to plan for varied weather throughout the year. The best times to visit are typically spring and fall, when the weather is generally pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy the city’s attractions.

Dining Recommendation in London

Try the vibrant street food at Borough Market, where you can savor dishes like Argentine empanadas or Indian dosa, showcasing London’s diverse culinary scene. This experience offers a lively atmosphere and flavors that contrast with Cardiff’s hearty Welsh dishes, bringing together global influences that you won’t find back home.

Cardiff - London operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cardiff and London, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Cardiff Central to Paddington

Average Duration
1h 53m
Estimated price
$85-190
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Cardiff North Road to London Victoria

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$18-26
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music to London Victoria

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$23-35
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk

Other from Cardiff to London

Average Duration
3h 8m
Estimated price
$12-26

Cardiff to London: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cardiff and London offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Cardiff to London spanning 151 miles of picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks. In just 2 hours and 40 minutes, you'll be cruising towards the vibrant capital city of the UK. 💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options ranging from £36 to £59 for the Cardiff to London route by car. Whether you're a solo traveler or with a group, there are affordable choices to suit every budget for your road trip adventure.
Average price
£35 - £58
🎟️ Enjoy a comfortable ride with First Great Western Service from Cardiff to London, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes. Arrive at Paddington station ready to explore the bustling city of London. 💷 Prices for the Cardiff to London train ticket range from £67 to £150, offering flexibility to suit your budget and travel preferences. Make the most of your trip by taking in the scenic views and arriving in the heart of London hassle-free.
Departure Point
Cardiff Central station
Arrival Point
Paddington station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The main train operators from Cardiff to London are Great Western Railway (GWR) and Transport for Wales. Great Western Railway provides a catering service with a range of snacks, sandwiches, and drinks available for purchase. In First Class, you may also receive complimentary refreshments including a selection of meals, snacks, and beverages. Check their website for pre-order options via GWR's 'Advance' ticket purchasing system for potential savings and menu selections.
• Seating Options: On this route, you have several seating options. Great Western Railway offers Standard Class (Economy), First Class, and Business Class. In Standard Class, you can choose between standard seating and reserved seats. First Class provides more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and quiet carriages, making it ideal for a more comfortable trip. For more information, visit GWR's official website: gwr.com
• Arrival Station Tip: You will arrive at London Paddington Station, which is well-equipped with facilities for travelers. In the station, you can leave your luggage at the Excess Baggage Company’s storage service, located near the main concourse. Restrooms are available, but showers are not typically offered inside the station. To navigate from Paddington to the city center quickly, take the Bakerloo Line (Brown Line) towards Elephant & Castle. This will take you directly to key central areas, including Oxford Circus.
🚌 The bus journey from Cardiff to London is convenient and comfortable, with services departing every three hours from Cardiff North Road and arriving at London Victoria. The trip takes approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes. 🚌 Tickets for the Cardiff to London bus route typically range from £18 to £28, making it an economical choice for travelers looking to explore both cities while enjoying a scenic and hassle-free ride.
Departure Point
Cardiff North Road station
Arrival Point
London Victoria station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Pre-book your ticket with Megabus UK or National Express to secure the best price for your Cardiff to London journey, as fares can range between £17 and £26 depending on demand. Check their websites for schedules and prices: Megabus UK and National Express.
• Arrive at Cardiff North Road station at least 15 minutes before departure to allow ample time for boarding, as the buses usually leave on time, and you don't want to miss your ride to London Victoria.
• When you arrive at London Victoria station, be prepared for a busy environment; follow the signs to the underground (Tube) and use the Transport for London website to plan your next journey, ensuring you have a contactless payment method ready for easier travel across the network: TfL Journey Planner.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cardiff to London.

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The distance between Cardiff and London is approximately 132 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 150.1 miles. Traveling by train is the fastest option, with a journey time of 1 hour and 52 minutes. Driving by car takes around 2 hours and 37 minutes, while taking the bus typically takes 3 hours and 25 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Cardiff to London is by taking a rideshare, which typically costs between £9-£20 and takes approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to take a train, which typically costs between £63-£141 and takes only 1 hour and 52 minutes. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency depends on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices of a train ticket from Cardiff to London range from £63 to £141, depending on the class of travel and the type of ticket purchased. Conversely, the prices of a bus ticket from London to Cardiff vary between £16 and £35. It is advisable to book in advance and compare prices to get the best deal for your desired mode of transport.
To travel from Cardiff to London without using public transportation, you can consider using a carpooling service like Blablacar. This allows you to share a ride with someone who is driving the same route. The driving distance between Cardiff and London is approximately 150 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 37 minutes by car. The prices for carpooling services can vary, but they usually range from £35 to £59.
The best way to travel from Cardiff to London without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes and ticket prices can range between £63-£141. Trains provide a convenient and efficient mode of transportation, allowing you to avoid the stress and hassle of driving in traffic.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cardiff and London. The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by train, with services departing from Cardiff Central and arriving at London Paddington station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes. Another option is to take a direct bus from Cardiff North Road to London Victoria Coach Station, which takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes. Frequency of trains and buses is typically hourly, with services operating every day.
There are numerous options for accommodation near London, with over 3674 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in London start at £68 per night, offering a range of choices to suit different budgets. It is recommended to explore different areas of London, such as the city center or popular neighborhoods like Covent Garden or Kensington, to find the best hotel that meets your needs and preferences.