How to get from Cardiff to York
Compare travel options by train, car, and bus.
The drive from Cardiff to York covers 241.1 miles and takes approximately 276 minutes via the most direct route. Alternatively, taking the train is faster, with a journey time of about 221 minutes.
Compare Your Options
| Mode | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
🚆 Train Fastest | 3h 41m | £84.38 | Speed & convenience |
| 🚌 Bus Cheapest | 6h 26m | £33.75 | Budget travel |
🚗 Drive | 4 hr 36 min | £41.16 | Flexibility & groups |
🚕 Taxi | 4 hr 36 min | £605.75 | Door-to-door comfort |
* Costs are estimates. Train/bus prices vary by time and booking method. Driving cost includes fuel and parking estimate.
Distance
241.1 miles
Fastest Option
Train
Approx. 3h 41m
Cheapest Option
Bus
Usually the lowest fare
🚗Driving from Cardiff to York
The drive from Cardiff to York covers approximately 241.1 miles and typically takes 4 hr 36 min via the most direct route.
Need parking in York?
Finding a spot can be tricky. View our complete guide to car parks, Park & Ride, and on-street zones.
View York Parking Guide →🚌Smart Tip: Use Park & Ride
Avoid city centre parking hassles and costs. Park at one of these convenient Park & Ride locations:
Askham Bar Park & Ride
Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1GN
£3.50
per day
Askham Bar Park & Ride
A64, York YO24 1LW, United Kingdom
Designer Outlet Park & Ride
St Nicholas Ave, York YO19 4QN, United Kingdom
🚆Cardiff to York by Train
Traveling by train is often the most convenient way to reach York. The journey takes approximately 3h 41m.
- Estimated Cost (Single)£84.38
- Main Arrival StationYork Station
🚌Bus & Coach Options
For a budget-friendly option, consider taking a coach or bus. The journey typically takes around 6h 26m.
Tip: Look for services by National Express or Megabus for long-distance travel, or Coastliner for regional Yorkshire connections.
✈️Flying to York
Since you are traveling from further away (241.1 miles), you might consider flying. The nearest major airport to York is Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), which is about an hour's drive from the city center.
Alternatively, Manchester Airport (MAN) offers more international connections and a direct train link to York (approx. 1h 30m).
Planning your visit to York?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from Cardiff to York?
The bus is usually the cheapest option, with fares from £5.00. It takes around 6h 26m.
What is the fastest way to travel from Cardiff to York?
The train is the fastest option, taking approximately 3h 41m, compared to 4h 36m by car.
How far is it from Cardiff to York?
The distance between Cardiff and York is approximately 241.1 miles via the most direct road route.
Is there a direct train from Cardiff to York?
Yes, services run regularly between Cardiff and York. The journey typically takes around 3h 41m.
More Ways to Get to York
Traveling from somewhere else? Check out our other travel guides.