Cardiff to Swindon train with Great Western Railway

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Transport for Wales
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Transport for Wales
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Swindon

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$44

Average price

$47

Fastest journey

58 m

Average duration

59 m

Trains per day

11

Distance

97 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Swindon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Swindon will cost around $47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.

Fast trains

Of the 11 trains that leave Cardiff for Swindon on Wed, Aug 05, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 97 km distance in an average of 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 58 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 1 h 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.

  • Great Western RailwayG15047
    12:50 PM1h00
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:50 PMSwindon station (SWI)
    $441One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35182
    11:50 AM0h58
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:48 PMSwindon station (SWI)
    $441One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15041
    8:18 AM1h00
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    9:18 AMSwindon station (SWI)
    $481One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15044
    10:50 AM1h00
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    11:50 AMSwindon station (SWI)
    $481One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35432
    9:19 AM0h59
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    10:18 AMSwindon station (SWI)
    $481One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Swindon

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Swindon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 22m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $29.

Distance: 60 miles (97 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$44

Average price

$13

Average price

Cheapest

$27

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 23m

Average total duration

1h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 27m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Swindon is a bus with an average price of $13.

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Swindon:

A bus is $31 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Swindon costing on average $44.

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Swindon is by train with an average journey time of 1h 22m.

Other travel options to Swindon take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Swindon including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Swindon 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 5m sooner (1h 22m by train vs 1h 27m by car). Tickets start at around $44 compared to roughly $27 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.

Direct services run with Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).

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

Cardiff to Swindon train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Swindon trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayG150418:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h00
9:18 AM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG150428:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h59
9:37 AM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW354329:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h59
10:18 AM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG150439:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h58
10:47 AM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW3517810:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h01
11:19 AM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG1504410:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h00
11:50 AM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG1504511:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h00
12:18 PM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW3518211:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
0h58
12:48 PM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG1504612:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h00
1:18 PM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG1504712:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h00
1:50 PM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW354341:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h01
2:19 PM Swindon station (SWI)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Swindon by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

Why should you book Cardiff to Swindon trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Swindon.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Swindon.

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, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Swindon.
  • 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Swindon.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Swindon.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Swindon.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Swindon

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Swindon run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 but you can travel from only $9 by bus.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 60 miles (97 km) distance in 57m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $9
Distance
60 miles (97 km)
Average train duration
1h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$29
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
57m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:42 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
35 days
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $9

Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Swindon trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Swindon from $9. 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
57m
Cheapest Price
$29
Great Western Railway frequency
7 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 Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest Price
$46
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$130
Cross Country frequency
3 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
56m
Cheapest Price
$86
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
18 a day

Transport for Wales

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 30m
Cheapest Price
$80
Transport for Wales frequency
7 a day

Complete guide to Swindon

Things to do in Swindon

Discover the best of Swindon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Swindon trip today.

  • Must visit

STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway

Major railway museum in the former works. Interactive displays, locomotives, and hands-on exhibits make it Swindon’s standout heritage attraction.

  • Recommended

Lydiard House Museum

Museum in Lydiard House presenting the estate’s history, decorated rooms, and collections connected to one of Swindon’s grandest homes.

  • Recommended

Swindon and Cricklade Railway Museum

Volunteer-run railway heritage site with exhibits, restored stock, and a nostalgic station atmosphere on the edge of Swindon.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for UK travel. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local transport are typical for southern England.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. In restaurants, add 10-12.5% if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Swindon

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Swindon 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 Swindon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Swindon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29, while the average price is around $44.
The train from Cardiff to Swindon takes 57m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Swindon is 60 miles (97 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Swindon leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Swindon leaves at 11:42 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Swindon.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Swindon. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Swindon.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Swindon is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Swindon station (SWI).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Swindon is by bus, with a cost of around $9.
The train journey from Cardiff to Swindon offers views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, making it a relatively scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Cardiff to Swindon is feasible, with a travel time of 57m and a distance of 60 miles (97 km). There are 7 trains available per day.
In Swindon, you can visit the Richard Jefferies Museum, enjoy performances at the Wyvern Theatre, and explore the Swindon and Cricklade Railway. Take a stroll through Queens Park and experience local art at the Swindon Arts Centre. Don't miss the STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway, Lydiard Park, Coate Water Country Park, Swindon Designer Outlet, and the Museum of Computing for a rich cultural and recreational experience.
For a visit to Swindon, 1 to 2 days are typically sufficient to explore key attractions such as the STEAM Museum, Lydiard Park, and the Swindon Designer Outlet.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Swindon.
Since neither Cardiff nor Swindon 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 Swindon include London, Bath, Bristol, Reading, Chippenham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Swindon 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 Swindon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and at transport hubs. Common scams include distraction techniques where someone may try to divert attention while an accomplice attempts theft. It's advisable to stay alert when using public transport or visiting crowded markets, and to avoid accepting unsolicited offers for services or tickets from strangers.
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 Cardiff to Swindon

Most Cardiff to Swindon trains use the Cardiff Central to Swindon station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Swindon train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Swindon
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre

TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min

Cathays train station facilities and services

Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cathays.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cathays: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: 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.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre

Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services

Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

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