- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Banbury to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$176
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$216
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h 16 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 25 m
Trains on Sep 20
21
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 $216 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $176.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Banbury to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
1:55 PM2h17Banbury4:12 PMCardiff$1761One-way2 transfers- 9:55 AM2h38Banbury12:33 PMCardiff$2141One-way1 transfer
- 10:55 AM2h39Banbury1:34 PMCardiff$2141One-way1 transfer
- 11:55 AM2h38Banbury2:33 PMCardiff$2141One-way1 transfer
- 12:55 PM2h45Banbury3:40 PMCardiff$2141One-way1 transfer
- 2:17 PM2h16Banbury4:33 PMCardiff$2141One-way1 transfer
- 1:55 PM2h17Banbury4:12 PMCardiff$1761One-way2 transfers
- 4:17 PM2h17Banbury6:34 PMCardiff$2141One-way1 transfer
- 9:55 AM2h38Banbury12:33 PMCardiff$2141One-way1 transfer
- 11:55 AM2h38Banbury2:33 PMCardiff$2141One-way1 transfer
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 bus, with an average ticket price of $70 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 42m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $70, while a train costs an average of $85.
Distance: 88 miles (142 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$85 Average price | $70 Average price Cheapest | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 42m Average total duration Fastest 2h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration 4h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Banbury to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $70 (€57).
This is compared to other travel options from Banbury to Cardiff:
A bus is $16 (€13) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Banbury to Cardiff costing on average $85 (€70).
The fastest way to travel from Banbury to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 12m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 27m.
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 14m sooner (2h 12m by train vs 2h 26m by car). Tickets start at around $85 (€70) 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.
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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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 9 times per day, taking around 2h 12m. 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 1h 44m.
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 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 (€29) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 1h 44m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 9:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 from Banbury to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry 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 Great Western Railway Duration
1h 44m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$65 (€53)
Great Western Railway frequency
4 a day
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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$35 (€29)
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
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
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 history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card and mobile payments on buses. Exact fare is not needed if you pay contactless.
- For rail travel around Cardiff, use the official Transport for Wales app for tickets and live times.
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 $85 (€70).
The train from Banbury to Cardiff takes 1h 44m and runs 9 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 1h 44m. 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
Most Banbury to Cardiff trains use the Banbury to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Banbury and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Banbury
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Banbury station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Banbury to Cardiff leave from Banbury. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Banbury city centre at Banbury station, Station Road, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 5AB.
BanburyBanbury station, Station Road, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 5AB+44 3456005165
City-centre transport
Getting to Banbury from Banbury city centre
BusB9 · 9m · $2 · every ~12 min
Mrt1 · 25m
Banbury train station facilities and services
Banbury has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Banbury.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Banbury. ATMs are available at Banbury.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Banbury.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Banbury: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Banbury: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Banbury: 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.
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
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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