- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Banbury to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$65
Average price
$65
Fastest journey
2 h 14 m
Average duration
2 h 30 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
142 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Banbury to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Banbury to Cardiff will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Banbury for Cardiff on Mon, Jun 22, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 142 km distance in an average of 2 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 14 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 2 h 54 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:55 AM2h21Banbury12:16 PMCardiff$651One-way0 transfers- 12:55 PM2h14Banbury3:09 PMCardiff$651One-way0 transfers
9:32 AM2h54Banbury12:26 PMCardiff$661One-way0 transfers
- 12:55 PM2h14Banbury3:09 PMCardiff$651One-way0 transfers
- 9:55 AM2h21Banbury12:16 PMCardiff$651One-way0 transfers
- 9:32 AM2h54Banbury12:26 PMCardiff$661One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Banbury to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Banbury to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $35. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $35, and a bus costs an average of $52.
Distance: 88 miles (142 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$59 Average price Cheapest | $76 Average price | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 54m Average total duration Fastest 2h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration 4h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Banbury to Cardiff is a train with an average price of $59 (€49).
This is compared to other travel options from Banbury to Cardiff:
A train is $16 (€13) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Banbury to Cardiff costing on average $76 (€62).
The fastest way to travel from Banbury to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 24m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Banbury and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Banbury to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2m sooner (2h 24m by train vs 2h 26m by car). Tickets start at around $59 (€49) compared to roughly $38 (€31) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Banbury to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Banbury to Cardiff trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:55 AM Banbury | 2h38 | 12:33 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 9:58 AM Banbury | 3h07 | 1:05 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 10:55 AM Banbury | 2h39 | 1:34 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 11:55 AM Banbury | 2h38 | 2:33 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 11:58 AM Banbury | 3h25 | 3:23 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 12:55 PM Banbury | 2h45 | 3:40 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 1:25 PM Banbury | 2h47 | 4:12 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 1:55 PM Banbury | 2h17 | 4:12 PM Cardiff | 2 transfers | |
| 1:58 PM Banbury | 3h25 | 5:23 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 2:17 PM Banbury | 2h16 | 4:33 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 2:55 PM Banbury | 2h46 | 5:41 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 4:17 PM Banbury | 2h17 | 6:34 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 4:28 PM Banbury | 2h56 | 7:24 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 4:55 PM Banbury | 2h41 | 7:36 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 5:55 PM Banbury | 2h39 | 8:34 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 6:24 PM Banbury | 2h58 | 9:22 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 6:55 PM Banbury | 2h39 | 9:34 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 7:55 PM Banbury | 2h41 | 10:36 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 8:55 PM Banbury | 2h41 | 11:36 PM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 9:53 PM Banbury | 9h32 | 7:25 AM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
| 9:55 PM Banbury | 10h11 | 8:06 AM Cardiff | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Banbury to Cardiff by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Jun 22
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Jun 28
Jun 28
Why should you book Banbury to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Cross Country offer trains services from Banbury to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Banbury to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Banbury to Cardiff.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Banbury to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Banbury to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Banbury to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Banbury to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Banbury to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 (€29) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:55. The fastest train covers the 88 miles (142 km) distance in 2h 11m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 88 miles (142 km) |
Average train duration 2h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 (€29) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 11m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 9:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country from Banbury to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Banbury and Cardiff from $35 (€29). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€29)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$176 (€144)
Cross Country frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with promenades, public buildings, and popular photo-friendly views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park ideal for riverside walks, greenery, and easy access from the castle.
- Must visit
Cardiff Market Arcade Quarter
Network of historic Victorian and Edwardian arcades prized for architecture and local independent shops.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
A classic Welsh dish of toasted bread topped with a savory cheese sauce, often seasoned with mustard or ale. It is a staple in pubs and cafes across Cardiff.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is especially associated with South Wales.
Pasture Cardiff
Well-known steakhouse in central Cardiff, praised for quality Welsh beef, polished service, and a lively modern atmosphere.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Highly regarded fine-dining venue serving well-presented British dishes in a unique and memorable setting.
Madeira Restaurante
Long-running Portuguese restaurant popular for grilled meat, seafood, and generous portions in a warm, traditional setting.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.
TfW
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.60
To the city center
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tap in and out with contactless payment on Transport for Wales rail services where available; always use the same card or device for the journey.
- On many local buses in Cardiff, you can buy tickets with contactless card payment, but carry a backup payment method as acceptance can vary by operator.
FAQs: Trains from Banbury to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Banbury to Cardiff by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Banbury to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35 (€29), while the average price is around $59 (€49).
The train from Banbury to Cardiff takes 2h 11m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Banbury to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Banbury to Cardiff is 88 miles (142 km).
The last train from Banbury to Cardiff leaves at 9:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Banbury to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Banbury to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Banbury to Cardiff.
The train station in Banbury that goes to Cardiff is Banbury station (BAN), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Banbury to Cardiff is by train, with a cost of around $35 (€29).
The train journey from Banbury to Cardiff offers picturesque views, especially as it travels through the Cotswolds and the Severn Estuary, providing scenic countryside landscapes and charming rural vistas.
A day trip from Banbury to Cardiff is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 11m. However, there are 6 train journeys available per day.
In Cardiff, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Attend performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, or take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay. For adventure, visit Cardiff International White Water for rafting and kayaking. Shop and dine at Cardiff Market. Discover history at Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore art and culture at the National Museum Cardiff, and relax in Bute Park. Cardiff Bay also offers dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
A visit of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore Cardiff's main attractions, such as Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and Cardiff Bay, while allowing time for leisure and dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Banbury to Cardiff.
Since neither Banbury nor Cardiff are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Banbury to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Banbury to Cardiff
Banbury
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Banbury is Banbury. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Banbury for your trip from Banbury to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 20:15 Saturday 06:35 - 19:15 Sunday 08:10 - 17:40
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Kiosk News agent
Parking
- Car Park: There are three car parks at Banbury Station: the Multi-Storey Car Park, the Main Car Park, and the Approach Road Car Park. Prices are the same at all three car parks
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to all platforms via lifts
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 00:15 Saturday 05:00 - 00:15 Sunday 08:00 - 00:20
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Accessible toilets on platforms 2
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Near station entrance next to taxi rank and on entry to the multi storey car park
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Banbury
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses depart from the front of the station.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from Banbury.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Most popular train connections from Banbury
More options for your journey from Banbury to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Banbury
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