Cardiff Central railway station, a major transport hub in Wales, features two primary exits providing access to different parts of the city. The main north entrance leads to the city centre, while the southern entrance connects to Cardiff Bay. Both exits offer various transport options and amenities, catering to diverse passenger needs. This guide explores the station’s exits, their locations, accessibility features, and nearby facilities to help travelers navigate efficiently.
What Are the Main Exits at Cardiff Central Train Station?
Cardiff Central Train Station has two primary exits:
- Main North Entrance
- Southern Entrance
Let’s explore each of these exits in detail.
What Does the Main North Entrance Offer?
The Main North Entrance is the primary access point to Cardiff Central Train Station, located on Central Square in the heart of the city centre. Here’s what you need to know about this exit:
- Location: Situated on Central Square, providing easy access to key city attractions
- Accessibility: Step-free access available, with lifts to most platforms
- Nearby Attractions:
- Principality Stadium
- National Museum Cardiff
- Cardiff Castle
What Transport Options Are Available at the Main North Entrance?
- Taxi Rank:
- Location: Saunders Road, just north of the station
-
Availability: 24/7 service
-
Bus Services:
- Nearby stops on Wood Street and Westgate Street
- No central bus station; services depart from various city centre locations
What Features Does the Southern Entrance Have?
The Southern Entrance, located at the rear of the station on Tresillian Way, offers an alternative access point:
- Location: Accessed from Penarth Road
- Proximity: Closer to Cardiff Bay
- Time-Saving: Can save 5-8 minutes compared to walking from the main north exit
What Amenities Are Near the Southern Entrance?
- Station Car Park
- Rail Replacement Bus Stop (in rear car park)
- Bus Stop JM on Penarth Road (convenient for Cardiff Bay-bound travelers)
How Accessible Are Cardiff Central Train Station Exits?
Both exits at Cardiff Central Train Station prioritize accessibility:
| Feature | Main North Entrance | Southern Entrance |
|---|---|---|
| Step-free access | Yes | Yes |
| Lifts | Available to most platforms | Available via subways |
| Ramps | Yes | Yes |
| National Key Toilets | East Subway and Platform 8 | East Subway and Platform 8 |
What Are the Specific Accessibility Features for Each Platform?
- Platforms 0-4:
- Used for longer distance services
- Platform 0 accessed from main northern entrance hall
-
Others accessed via subways from both entrances
-
Platforms 6-8:
- Used for local trains, including Valley Lines services
- Accessed via subways from both entrances
What Challenges Might Travelers Face When Using Cardiff Central Train Station Exits?
- Platform 0 Considerations:
- Limited facilities
- Separate from main station area
-
Recommendation: Arrive only 5 minutes before departure
-
Subway Navigation:
- Can be busy during peak hours
- May require extra time for those with mobility issues
What Transport Options Are Available Near Cardiff Central Train Station Exits?
Taxi Services
- Available 24/7 from the taxi rank on Saunders Road
- Contact local taxi services for more information
Bus Services
- Timetables and routes available on Transport for Wales website
- No central bus station; services scattered across city centre
What Amenities Are Available at Cardiff Central Train Station Exits?
- Ticket Offices:
- Located at Penarth Road entrance and main concourse
-
Ticket machines available 24/7
-
Toilets:
-
National Key toilets in East Subway and Platform 8
-
WiFi:
-
Free public WiFi throughout the station
-
Cycle Storage:
- Sheffield stands
- Sheltered area in Riverside/Fish Jetty Car Park
By understanding the layout and features of Cardiff Central Train Station exits, travelers can navigate the station more efficiently and choose the most convenient exit for their journey.