Hi,
I'm trying to work out a train ticket purchase. We'll be landing on Sunday, February 18 at 6:30am via Virgin Atlantic.
The plan is to get to Paddington train station (via Elizabeth Line, right?) and then catch a train to Cardiff. We will only have carry-on baggage.
How much time should we allot for getting into London and then catching a train? In other words, what train departure time should I be looking for when I book those tickets?
Thanks!
Posted by
Uppsala, Sweden
7052 posts
You don't need to go to Paddington to catch the train to Cardiff, another option is to take the coach to Reading and board the train there.
Posted by
Lake District, England
8134 posts
The way I would do it is National Express bus every hour straight there. Takes 3 hours, time for a snooze. Only about 3 stops usually- 1st either Bristol or Newport.
No stress.
Add the £5 flexible add on, travel on a later bus if your flight is delayed. Avoids juggling train times and what ifs.
So book say the 0830 bus. If you are there early take the 0730, if late the 0930 or later.
Posted by
Sioux Falls, SD, USA
3102 posts
years ago, we got bamboozled into taking the express from H to PS. It saved maybe 10 minutes, and cost 2x. Bad advice at Heathrow.
If I remember right, it was well under 30 min.
Posted by
OP
Rocklin, CA
54 posts
Thanks for the quick replies!
I did wonder about taking a bus from Heathrow, but wasn't sure how long the ride would be. It was unclear on the site I looked at.
If we go with the bus option, do we still book ahead online? I'm assuming finding the spot to catch it at Heathrow is fairly simple?
This brings up a new question -- we will return to London from Cardiff after a couple of days to stay somewhere centrally located (still figuring the exact place out) -- for that return journey would train be best?
Posted by
Lake District, England
8134 posts
Whichever Heathrow Terminal you arrive at (Virgin=T3 I think) go to the well signed Central Bus Station between Terminals 2 and 3 (use the free shuttles if landing at T4 or T5).
If it makes you feel happier and more secure in your arrangements buy in advance (if nothing else it'll be cheaper) but the buses won't be full early Sunday. You can buy at the machines at the bus station or even on your phone after you land on the Nat Ex website or app, when you will know your timing.
Buy tonight and it's about £17 each + the £5 flexible add on. Sign up for a free account and you avoid the £1.50 booking fee. You may even be able to choose your seat for an extra £2 or £3.
Yes on the way back you'll be fresher and can predict your time so can get a good value train ticket. There are buses Cardiff to Victoria but the train is faster. So may as well take the train.
Posted by
OP
Rocklin, CA
54 posts
Great -- thanks so much!