Since October 2018, the most popular routes in Wales have been operated by Transport for Wales. At Trainline, we'll show you Transport for Wales’ routes and services, and more importantly, how to book the best value fares for your journey. To find Transport for Wales tickets, simply start a search above, and we'll show you the best available journey times and prices.
For more information about accessibility on Transport for Wales services, check out our Accessible Travel guide.
Transport for Wales
Here's all you need to know about Transport for Wales.
Transport for Wales has taken over all existing Arriva Trains Wales routes that serve train journeys within the country. Like Arriva Trains Wales, Transport for Wales will continue to link passengers in Wales to destinations in England including Crewe, Chester and Manchester Piccadilly.
While this is a change in train operators, customers who currently use the Arriva Trains Wales network will not be affected by the switch. All pre-booked and Season tickets, travel vouchers are still valid and train times will run as normal even if only part of your journey was booked with Arriva Trains Wales.
Transport for Wales map
Unsure about where to start your adventure? Use our Transport for Wales map to plan out where you want to go. Enjoy speedy services to locations in and around Wales such as Cardiff, Swansea, Holyhead to places in England like Shrewsbury, Crewe and Birmingham.
Let Transport for Wales show you the way around Wales. From the biggest cities in the country, connect to smaller regions and towns as well as popular hubs in England like Manchester and Chester and places further afield.
Want to learn more about the Welsh rail network? Head to our Wales Rail Map page for more information.
Popular Transport for Wales routes
Wales is a nation full of surprises and if you need a friendly nudge in the right direction, look at these awesome route ideas. And why not plan ahead by checking out our Transport for Wales train times page?
How to get cheap Transport for Wales tickets
If you're after cheap UK train tickets, check out the hints below and see how you could bag yourself a bargain. We'll even highlight the cheapest prices!
Book in advance
Transport for Wales tickets usually go on sale 3 months before the date of travel. Look out for Advance tickets, as these tend to be cheaper when they're first released. Be quick though, as they sell out on busier routes.
Find out more about our Advance ticket alert tool.
Travel Off-Peak
When travelling by train in the UK, you can benefit from reduced fares by choosing times of day that are less busy. When searching for Transport for Wales tickets with us, we'll display all available tickets and options, highlighting the cheapest ones.
Learn more about Off-Peak train times.
Price Prediction
Our clever little Price Prediction tool will peek into the future and let you know when Transport for Wales ticket prices are about to rise – meaning you'll never miss out on the best value fares. Beat the rush and save on price too. (Currently available in the UK app only)
Discover the magic of Price Prediction.
Season tickets
If you travel on the same route more than three times a week, then a Transport for Wales Season ticket could help you to save both valuable time and money. Not only that, they're available in a number of flexible options to suit different time frames.
Check out our Season ticket Calculator today to get started.
Consider a Railcard
They're types of train discount cards you can buy for £30 for unlimited use. You can get up to a 1/3 off the price of Off-Peak train tickets when using a Railcard. From kids to elderly people, there are great discounts out there to be had.
Find out more about Railcards or renewing a Railcard.
Discover digital tickets
Enjoy smoother Transport for Wales journeys – go straight to the train when you use tickets on your phone. 94% of our customers wouldn't use anything else! Mobile Tickets will get sent directly to your Trainline app and etickets can be opened on your phone as a PDF. Both let you skip the queues at the ticket machine and breeze straight through the gates using your phone. They’re available on most Transport for Wales journeys, so be sure to select this option when you book.
Learn more about Mobile Tickets and etickets.
Transport for Wales Business (First) Class
Whether you're travelling for work, leisure or a bit of both, Transport for Wales' Business Class option offers the best in comfort and style.
Travelling in Business Class with Transport for Wales is a great way of commuting in style and comfort in and around Wales. Business Class is Transport for Wales' First Class alternative that’s only available on journeys between Holyhead and Cardiff.
So, what do you get when you upgrade to a Business (First) Class ticket on Transport for Wales? On morning services, there’s a complimentary hot breakfast, freshly prepared onboard with locally-sourced ingredients.
For those taking evening trains, there’s a three-course meal available with delights such as Welsh black ribeye steaks, poached salmon and wild mushroom risotto on the menu to combat any hunger that strikes onboard.
Transport for Wales also offers an extensive wine list and a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Couple this with more table space and extra legroom, choosing to travel on Business Class is a perfect complement to the business traveller and those who need the most luxurious surroundings.
Find out more about travelling First Class in the UK.
Taking your bike on a Transport for Wales train
Planning a day out on your bike? Or cycling as part of your commute to work? You’re in luck. Taking bikes on trains in the UK is completely free.
Transport for Wales recommends that you make a reservation for your full-sized bike wherever you’re given the option. During Peak hours Monday to Friday, bikes are not permitted on some of their Valleys and Cardiff local routes.
If you’re taking a fold-up bike on board there’s no need for a reservation, but you must be able to carry the bike and fit it in the luggage rack on the train.
Find out more about taking bikes on trains in the UK.
Trains from Cardiff to Swansea
The train route from Cardiff to Swansea is one of the most popular on the whole Transport for Wales network. They're an essential link between South Wales’ largest but strongly independent cities.
Transport for Wales run four trains per hour during peak times and the trip from Cardiff to Swansea by train takes under 60 minutes. This makes this Transport for Wales route a fantastic and convenient alternative to driving. Booking train tickets for this route in advance can also give a great opportunity to get cheap rail tickets for this journey, which is great for business travel or day trips.
Things to do in Cardiff range from fun days out seeing historical sights, catching a sporting event or concerts or even just a little retail therapy and a night out! The Principality Stadium hosts musical events and Welsh Rugby games, creating an atmosphere that is only seen to be believed. If it is the culture you want, Cardiff Bay or the Wales Millennium Centre provide a change of pace and let you take in some of the history of the local area and with things to learn and sights to see.
Swansea offers a welcome break for those looking for a relaxing weekend away. With a number of beaches and waterfronts to experience, including Gower Peninsula and Three Cliffs Bay, there is plenty of space to unwind as well as taking in the coastal sights.
Search for Cardiff to Swansea trains or check out our guide to South Wales trains for more information about the South Wales rail network.
Top Transport for Wales destinations
Need a bit of information ahead of your next trip? Check out these popular Transport for Wales destinations for travel details and nearby attractions.
Transport for Wales Delay Repay
Did you know you can claim Delay Repay if your Transport for Wales train was delayed by 15 minutes or more? Check out our dedicated page to Delay Repay for more details.
Good to know
Travelling with Transport for Wales? Find out everything you need to know about Transport for Wales onboard facilities here.
Can I bring a bike on a Transport for Wales service?
What are Transport for Wales peak hours?
Is there WiFi on board Transport for Wales services?
Contact information
Got a query about your Transport for Wales journey? Get in touch online.
Customer service enquiries
If you want to get in touch with our customer support team about a booking you've made with us, visit our help section.
Delays, lost property and onboard services
If you would like more information regarding Transport for Wales times, lost property or onboard facilities, then please call Transport for Wales on + (44) 333 321 1202.