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Rochdale to Cardiff Central by train

First train

05:14

Last train

20:14

Departure station

Rochdale

Arrival station

Cardiff Central

Journey time

From 4h 8m

Distance

154 miles (247 km)

Frequency

6 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Train operators

CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales

Rochdale to Cardiff Central train times

Check out the next trains departing from Rochdale to Cardiff Central for Dienstag 30. April 2024 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.
DepartsArrivesTrainDuration
15:37 On timerochdale19:45 On timecardiff centralPlat. 3 northern PeakGet tickets4h 8m, 2 changes
16:48 On timerochdale20:56 On timecardiff centralPlat. 3 northern PeakGet tickets4h 8m, 2 changes
17:37 On timerochdale21:55 On timecardiff centralPlat. 3 northern PeakGet tickets4h 18m, 2 changes
18:37 On timerochdale23:07 On timecardiff centralPlat. 3 estimatednorthern PeakGet tickets4h 30m, 2 changes
19:37 On timerochdale00:24 On timecardiff centralPlat. 3 estimatednorthern PeakGet tickets4h 47m, 3 changes

Taking the train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central in 4 hours 8 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central? We've got you covered.

It usually takes around 6 hours 14 minutes to travel the 154 miles (247 km) from Rochdale to Cardiff Central by train, although you can get there in as little as 4 hours 8 minutes on the fastest services. You'll normally find around 6 trains per day running on this route. You'll need to make 2 changes along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line. You're likely to be travelling with Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway or Transport for Wales to Cardiff Central. As the main train operators on this route, all offer plenty of space for luggage and comfortable seating as standard.

Book train tickets from Rochdale to Cardiff Central in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. We'll always highlight the cheapest prices in our Journey Planner, for example when you travel at Off-Peak times or use a Railcard.

If you're feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Cardiff Central by train, or check our timetable above to view live train times.

Journey details

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

How long does the train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central take?

The average journey time by train between Rochdale and Cardiff Central is 6 hours and 14 minutes, with around 6 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Rochdale and Cardiff Central by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central is 4 hours and 8 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central?

No, there are no direct train services from Rochdale to Cardiff Central. Travelling from Rochdale to Cardiff Central by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.

What time does the first train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central leave?

The first train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central leaves at 05:14. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central leave?

The last train from Rochdale to Cardiff Central leaves at 20:14. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Rochdale and Cardiff Central by train?

Trains travelling from Rochdale to Cardiff Central cover a distance of around 154 miles (247 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Cardiff Central to Rochdale.

Cheap train tickets from Rochdale to Cardiff Central

Book in advance

Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.

Consider a Season Ticket

If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Rochdale to Cardiff Central is right for you.

Use your Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.

Split your tickets

Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.

For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.

† 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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