Save up to 50% on journeys between Cardiff and Manchester

Looking for inspiration for your next trip? With direct trains running hourly between Cardiff Central and Manchester, save money on Advance train tickets between these two vibrant UK cities, as well as many other exciting destinations along the way.

Things to do in Manchester

The perfect city for a weekend break or family getaway by train, 
Manchester is packed with history, culture, diversity and buzzing 
energy. From its legendary music scene and iconic football teams 
to its unbeatable shops and amazing dining, Manchester has 
something for everyone’s tastes.

Travel from Swansea to Manchester from £40.50 
with Advance train tickets.

 

Things to do in Cardiff

Jump off at Cardiff Central and find yourself in the heart of 
the vibrant Welsh capital. Whether it’s wandering through its 
charming arcades filled with independent shops, exploring its 
majestic castle or getting swept up in the energy of a sports 
tournament at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff has an energy 
that’s hard to resist.

Travel from Carmarthen to Cardiff from £9.20 
with Advance train tickets.

Abergavenny - Shrewsbury

Manchester - Cardiff

Things to do in Shrewsbury

Historic Shrewsbury with its medieval streets, timber-framed 
buildings, and cobbled alleys is perfect for those who want a 
relaxing day out or weekend away. But that doesn’t mean it’s 
stuck in the past. Shrewsbury is also home to a range of bustling 
markets, lively festivals and a mouthwatering food scene. Take a 
stroll through Quarry Park or explore the river on a boat cruise 
to watch it all flow by. 

Travel from Cardiff to Shrewsbury from £21.90 with Advance 
train tickets. First Class tickets are also available on selected 
services.

 

Things to do in Abergavenny

Abergavenny is a great base for exploring Bannau Brycheiniog 
(Brecon Beacons). It wows visitors with its picturesque landscapes 
and rich historical heritage. The town has a vibrant foodie 
scene full of local delicacies, while the surroundings create an 
unforgettable experience for every traveller.

*Average percentage saved by customers between 01/01/2024 and 31/12/2024 when buying undiscounted TfW Advance tickets compared to the cheapest undiscounted TfW priced Anytime Single ticket for the same journey, available on the day of travel, was 50.2%. Advance fares are subject to availability. National Rail Conditions of Travel apply. Prices stated are valid until 01/03/2026.

Manchester - Cardiff

Things to do in Manchester

The perfect city for a weekend break or family getaway by train, Manchester is packed with history, culture, diversity and buzzing energy. From its legendary music scene and iconic football teams to its unbeatable shops and amazing dining, Manchester has something for everyone’s tastes.

Travel from Swansea to Manchester from £40.50 with Advance train tickets.

 

Things to do in Cardiff

Jump off at Cardiff Central and find yourself in the heart of the vibrant Welsh capital. Whether it’s wandering through its charming arcades filled with independent shops, exploring its majestic castle or getting swept up in the energy of a sports tournament at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff has an energy that’s hard to resist.

Travel from Carmarthen to Cardiff from £9.20 with Advance train tickets.

Abergavenny - Shrewsbury

Things to do in Shrewsbury

Historic Shrewsbury with its medieval streets, timber-framed buildings, and cobbled alleys is perfect for those who want a relaxing day out or weekend away. But that doesn’t mean it’s stuck in the past. Shrewsbury is also home to a range of bustling markets, lively festivals and a mouthwatering food scene. Take a stroll through Quarry Park or explore the river on a boat cruise to watch it all flow by. 

Travel from Cardiff to Shrewsbury from £21.90 with Advance train tickets. First Class tickets are also available on selected services.

 

Things to do in Abergavenny

Abergavenny is a great base for exploring Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons). It wows visitors with its picturesque landscapes and rich historical heritage. The town has a vibrant foodie scene full of local delicacies, while the surroundings create an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

 

*Average percentage saved by customers between 01/01/2024 and 31/12/2024 when buying undiscounted TfW Advance tickets compared to the cheapest undiscounted TfW priced Anytime Single ticket for the same journey, available on the day of travel, was 50.2%. Advance fares are subject to availability. National Rail Conditions of Travel apply. Prices stated are valid until 01/03/2026.

 

Get the train at Cardiff Central and 3 ½ hours later, you’ll arrive at Manchester Piccadilly station, ready to experience this amazing city, feeling refreshed and relaxed.

With direct trains from Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly running hourly from 04.33 until 20.03, you can make the journey anytime. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, you’ll travel in comfort, with plenty of space to spread out. Enjoy a cup of fresh coffee, doze off with a good book or marvel as 170.4 miles of glorious landscape speed by.

  • Free Wi-Fi
    Free Wi-Fi
  • Charging points
    Charging points
  • Direct
    Direct
Live departures and arrivals

How long is the train from Cardiff to Manchester?

Direct trains from Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly take approximately 3 hours 45 minutes, travelling just over 170.4 miles at speed.

 

Why travel from Cardiff to Manchester?

Known as England’s second city, Manchester was once a powerhouse of industry. It’s now a hub of culture and retail therapy, with some of the UK’s best restaurants.

One of the largest shopping centres in the UK, the Intu Trafford Centre is a shopper’s paradise, including such delights as Mango, Zara and John Lewis. You’ll also find plenty of independent boutiques with items to suit every taste.

For sports fans, there’s the world famous Old Trafford football stadium, home of Manchester United FC. Regular tours take in the Club’s extensive trophy collection, and the museum is a must for followers of the game.

With nearly 5 million exhibits, Manchester Museum is as much of an institution as the British Museum in London. The magical Sea Life aquarium is a must-see for all members of the family. HOME houses five cinemas as well as theatres and art galleries with events and shows throughout the year. The complex also has several restaurants and cafes if you’re feeling peckish before, or after a show.

Manchester has something for everyone. This cosmopolitan city just keeps piling on the excitement every time you visit.

We have a range of tickets available from Cardiff to Manchester, designed to save you both money and hassle. By downloading our easily accessible app, you’ll have our best deals at your fingertips. X can keep you updated on your journey times, or check our live route status to ensure a trouble-free trip.