- Recommended
Windsor and Royal Borough Museum
Compact museum inside the Guildhall telling Windsor's story through local objects, royal links, and changing town life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Windsor
Showing times and prices for Aug 20
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$68
Fastest journey
2 h 26 m
Average duration
2 h 26 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
179 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Windsor is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Windsor will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cardiff for Windsor on Thu, Aug 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 20 the direct trains cover the 179 km distance in an average of 2 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 26 m .
On Thu, Aug 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 27 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.
10:50 AM2h26Cardiff1:16 PMWindsor$521One-way0 transfers- 9:50 AM2h26Cardiff12:16 PMWindsor$731One-way0 transfers
- 9:49 AM2h27Cardiff12:16 PMWindsor$781One-way0 transfers
- 10:50 AM2h26Cardiff1:16 PMWindsor$521One-way0 transfers
- 9:50 AM2h26Cardiff12:16 PMWindsor$731One-way0 transfers
- 9:49 AM2h27Cardiff12:16 PMWindsor$781One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Windsor
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Windsor among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, and a train costs an average of $53.
Distance: 111 miles (179 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$80 Average price | $21 Average price Cheapest |
2h 48m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 49m Average total duration 4h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Windsor is a bus with an average price of $21 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Windsor:
A bus is $59 (€48) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Windsor costing on average $80 (€65).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Windsor is by train with an average journey time of 2h 18m.
Other travel options to Windsor take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 19m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Windsor including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Windsor among Omio's users.
Live departures
Cardiff to Windsor train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Windsor trains for tomorrow, Thursday, August 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:49 AM Cardiff | 2h27 | 12:16 PM Windsor | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:50 AM Cardiff | 2h26 | 12:16 PM Windsor | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:50 AM Cardiff | 2h26 | 1:16 PM Windsor | 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 Windsor 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.
Thu
Aug 20
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Why should you book Cardiff to Windsor trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Windsor.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Windsor.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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 Windsor.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Windsor.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Windsor
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Windsor run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $53 (€43) but you can travel from only $14 (€11) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 22:40. The fastest train covers the 111 miles (179 km) distance in 2h 17m.
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 $14 (€11)
Distance 111 miles (179 km) |
Average train duration 2h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 (€43) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 17m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 10:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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 $14 (€11)
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Windsor trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Windsor from $14 (€11). 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 17m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
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
Complete guide to Windsor
Things to do in Windsor
Discover the best of Windsor — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Windsor trip today.
- Recommended
The Royal Windsor Station Museum
Restored Victorian engine shed housing Queen Victoria's royal train and historic locomotives. Essential for railway and royal history fans.
- Recommended
Museum of Eton Life
Museum inside the college presenting Eton's history, art, and collections. A rewarding stop for education and heritage enthusiasts.
- Must visit
The Long Walk
The Long Walk is Windsor's grand tree-lined avenue from the castle into Great Park, famous for regal views and memorable walks.
- Must visit
Windsor Great Park
Large historic parkland with deer, gardens, lakes, and trails. Ideal for longer walks, cycling, and classic royal landscapes.
- Recommended
Peascod Street
Central shopping street beneath the castle walls, lined with historic buildings and constant views of Windsor's royal setting.
Sunday Roast
Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding is a classic Sunday roast long loved in Windsor pubs, served with gravy and seasonal vegetables.
- Vegetarian
Afternoon Tea
Windsor has strong ties to afternoon tea, with finger sandwiches, scones, jam and cakes served in elegant hotels near the castle.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Eton Mess
Eton mess was created at nearby Eton College: crushed meringue, strawberries and cream, a famous local dessert of the area.
The Waterside Inn
Refined fine dining in a historic riverside setting, known for modern British tasting menus and polished service.
Coworth Park
Elegant hotel dining near Windsor Great Park, specialising in classic British dishes and one of the town's best afternoon teas.
The Two Brewers
Traditional pub by the Long Walk serving cask ales, hearty British food and a classic Windsor atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Windsor is pricier than many UK towns due to tourism. Hotels and dining are above average, while local buses and rail to London add moderate transport costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 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 about 10% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafes usually do not require tipping.
Reading Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Windsor & Eton Riverside -> Windsor Castle, Windsor
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 11 min
- Most local buses in Windsor accept contactless card payment; ask the driver for the cheapest valid fare if unsure.
- Windsor has two stations: Windsor & Eton Central and Windsor & Eton Riverside. Check your rail ticket and route before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Windsor
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Windsor 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 Windsor, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Windsor can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $53 (€43), while the average price is around $80 (€65).
The train from Cardiff to Windsor takes 2h 17m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Windsor leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Windsor is 111 miles (179 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Windsor leaves at 10:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Windsor.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Windsor.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Windsor.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Windsor is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Windsor & Eton Central (WNC).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Windsor is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€11).
The train journey from Cardiff to Windsor offers a mix of urban and countryside views, featuring rolling hills, quaint villages, and glimpses of the River Thames, making it moderately scenic.
A day trip from Cardiff to Windsor is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 17m. However, there are 5 trains per day.
In Windsor, you can explore LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, enjoy a River Thames boat tour, and taste local craft beers at Windsor & Eton Brewery. Visit the historic Theatre Royal Windsor for diverse performances and shop at Windsor Royal Station. Don't miss Windsor Castle, St George's Chapel, Windsor Great Park, and Eton College. A walk down The Long Walk offers stunning views leading to the castle.
To fully experience Windsor, including a visit to Windsor Castle, exploring the Great Park, and enjoying the local dining scene, 2 to 3 days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Windsor.
Since neither Cardiff nor Windsor 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 Windsor include London, Oxford, Reading, Maidenhead, Bath.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Windsor 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 Windsor, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in busy areas and near popular attractions. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. Staying alert in crowded places and using licensed transportation services helps minimize risks.
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 Windsor
Most Cardiff to Windsor trains use the Cardiff Central to Windsor & Eton Central station pair, with some services arriving at Windsor & Eton Riverside. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Windsor 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 Windsor
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.
Whitchurch (Cardiff)Whitchurch station, off Pen-y-Dre, Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 1BP
City-centre transport
Getting to Whitchurch (Cardiff) from Cardiff city centre
Whitchurch (Cardiff) is 5 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 12m · $2 · every ~4 min
Cardiff Central - Coryton, Penarth - Coryton · 16m · $4 · every ~4 min
Bus400 · 21m · $5 · every ~6 min
24, 25, 101, 21, 102 · 47m · $2 · every ~18 min
Whitchurch (Cardiff) train station facilities and services
Whitchurch (Cardiff) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Whitchurch (Cardiff): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B Step free access to the platform from Pen y Dre, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Windsor station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Windsor most often arrive at Windsor & Eton Central. Some services arrive at Windsor & Eton Riverside, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Windsor arrival station.
Windsor & Eton CentralWindsor & Eton Central station, Royal Windsor Shopping Centre, Thames Street, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1PJ+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Windsor & Eton Central from Windsor city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus Stop outside Hare & Garter, Opposite Windsor Castle
Windsor & Eton Central train station facilities and services
Windsor & Eton Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Windsor & Eton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Windsor & Eton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Windsor & Eton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Windsor & Eton Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Windsor & Eton Central: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Windsor & Eton Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A station - This station has step free access to the platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible public telephones: No, Accessible taxis: Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Windsor & Eton RiversideWindsor & Eton Riverside station, Datchet Road, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1QG+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Windsor & Eton Riverside from Windsor city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesDatchet Road (B470) by station.
Windsor & Eton Riverside train station facilities and services
Windsor & Eton Riverside has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Windsor & Eton Riverside.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Windsor & Eton Riverside. ATMs are available at Windsor & Eton Riverside.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Windsor & Eton Riverside. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Windsor & Eton Riverside: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Windsor & Eton Riverside: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Windsor & Eton Riverside: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Short ramps at up to 1:9 gradient from car parks and main entrance to concourse - then level access to both platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Windsor
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Windsor and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Windsor
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