- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Carmarthen to Reading
Showing times and prices for Aug 14
Cheapest price
€63
Average price
€67
Fastest journey
3 h 15 m
Average duration
3 h 18 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
234 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Carmarthen to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carmarthen to Reading will cost around €67 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €63.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Carmarthen for Reading on Fri, Aug 14, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Aug 14 the direct trains cover the 234 km distance in an average of 3 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 15 m .
On Fri, Aug 14 the slowest trains will take 3 h 22 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.
W3543411:27 AM3h18Carmarthen station (CMN)2:45 PMReading station (RDG)€631One-way0 transfers- G150459:21 AM3h23Carmarthen station (CMN)12:44 PMReading station (RDG)€631One-way0 transfers
- W35178+
G391808:30 AM3h15Carmarthen station (CMN)11:45 AMReading station (RDG)€691One-way1 transfer - G38294+G1504812:56 PM3h20Carmarthen station (CMN)4:16 PMReading station (RDG)€691One-way1 transfer
- G15046+G3919310:24 AM3h22Carmarthen station (CMN)1:46 PMReading station (RDG)€691One-way1 transfer
- W35178+G391808:30 AM3h15Carmarthen station (CMN)11:45 AMReading station (RDG)€691One-way1 transfer
- W35188+G3920512:30 PM3h15Carmarthen station (CMN)3:45 PMReading station (RDG)€691One-way1 transfer
- W3543411:27 AM3h18Carmarthen station (CMN)2:45 PMReading station (RDG)€631One-way0 transfers
- G38294+G1504812:56 PM3h20Carmarthen station (CMN)4:16 PMReading station (RDG)€691One-way1 transfer
- G15046+G3919310:24 AM3h22Carmarthen station (CMN)1:46 PMReading station (RDG)€691One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Carmarthen to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carmarthen to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €40. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €40, and a train costs an average of €62.
Distance: 145 miles (234 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€62 Average price | €40 Average price Cheapest | €51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 32m Average total duration Fastest 4h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 45m Average total duration 7h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Carmarthen to Reading is a bus with an average price of €40.
This is compared to other travel options from Carmarthen to Reading:
A bus is €22 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Carmarthen to Reading costing on average €62.
The fastest way to travel from Carmarthen to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 4h 2m.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carmarthen and Reading including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carmarthen to Reading among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €62 compared to roughly €51 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-11.42. The journey takes 4h 2m versus 3h 9m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Carmarthen to Reading 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.
Fri
Aug 14
Aug 14
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Aug 15
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Aug 20
Why should you book Carmarthen to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Carmarthen to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carmarthen to Reading.
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 Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Carmarthen to Reading.
- 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 Carmarthen to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Carmarthen to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Carmarthen to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Carmarthen to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €62 but you can travel from only €40 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:37, the last at 22:13. The fastest train covers the 145 miles (234 km) distance in 3h 22m.
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 €40
Distance 145 miles (234 km) |
Average train duration 4h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price €62 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 22m |
First train 4:37 AM |
Last train 10:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 €40
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales from Carmarthen to Reading trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales trains will get you between Carmarthen and Reading from €40. 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
3h 22m
Cheapest Price
€62
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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 14m
Cheapest Price
€160
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
7 a day
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
€137
Transport for Wales frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Reading
Things to do in Reading
Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.
- Must visit
The Museum of English Rural Life
Modern art gallery in the civic centre showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists in a central, accessible space.
- Must visit
The Museum of English Rural Life
University museum with strong agriculture, countryside, and design collections. Popular for families and one of Reading's standout visits.
- Must visit
Forbury Gardens
Large central park with formal gardens, Thames views, and the iconic Maiwand Lion. A classic place to stroll or relax near downtown.
- Must visit
Reading Abbey Quarter
Historic quarter around the Abbey ruins, museum, and Forbury Gardens. Ideal for understanding Reading's origins on a compact walking route.
- Recommended
King's Meadow
Riverside nature reserve and meadow walk beside the Thames. Peaceful paths and wildlife make it a favorite local escape close to the centre.
Windsor Fish Pie
A Berkshire classic of smoked haddock in a creamy parsley sauce. Traditionally linked to Windsor and widely associated with the wider county.
- Vegetarian
Berkshire Lardy Cake
A rich fruit cake made with currants, butter, eggs, sugar and mixed spice. A long-standing Berkshire tea-time bake.
- Vegetarian
Sally Lunn Bun
A soft yeasted bun spiced with caraway and filled with currants, candied peel and sugar. Traditionally baked in Berkshire and nearby counties.
L'Ortolan
Polished fine dining restaurant known for seasonal British tasting menus and refined service in an elegant central Reading setting.
Bakery House
Popular Reading institution for Lebanese and Middle Eastern plates, known for generous mezze and a lively, casual atmosphere.
London Street Brasserie
Well-regarded independent restaurant serving British and European dishes with seasonal ingredients in a relaxed modern dining room.
Pound sterling (£)
Reading is pricier than many UK towns. Hotels and dining are above average, but rail and local buses are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- 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% for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafes usually do not require tipping.
Reading Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city center
Reading Station -> Broad Street, Reading
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Reading Buses, and fare capping can make multiple trips cheaper than buying separate tickets.
- Reading town centre is walkable from Reading Station; many central destinations are about 10 minutes on foot.
FAQs: Trains from Carmarthen to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carmarthen to Reading 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 Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Carmarthen to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €62, while the average price is around €62.
The train from Carmarthen to Reading takes 3h 22m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Carmarthen to Reading leaves at 4:37 AM.
The distance by train from Carmarthen to Reading is 145 miles (234 km).
The last train from Carmarthen to Reading leaves at 10:13 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Carmarthen to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train from Carmarthen to Reading. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Carmarthen to Reading.
The train station in Carmarthen that goes to Reading is Carmarthen station (CMN), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Carmarthen to Reading is by bus, with a cost of around €40.
The train journey from Carmarthen to Reading offers scenic views of the Welsh countryside, including rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, particularly as the route passes through areas such as the Brecon Beacons.
A day trip from Carmarthen to Reading is not feasible since the travel duration is 3h 22m. However, there are 5 train trips available per day. The distance is 145 miles (234 km).
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions and experience the cultural highlights of Reading.
Yes, you can take the train from Carmarthen to Reading.
Since neither Carmarthen nor Reading 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 Reading include London, Oxford, Bracknell, Slough, Maidenhead.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carmarthen to Reading 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 Reading, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and unofficial tour guides. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure safety.
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 Carmarthen to Reading
Most Carmarthen to Reading trains use the Carmarthen to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Tilehurst. Use this guide to compare Carmarthen and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Carmarthen
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Carmarthen station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Carmarthen to Reading leave from Carmarthen. The station is from Carmarthen city centre at Carmarthen station, Station Road, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire, SA31 2BE.
CarmarthenCarmarthen station, Station Road, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire, SA31 2BE+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Carmarthen from Carmarthen city centre
BusT1x, T1, T1a · 3m · €1 · every ~4 min
Carmarthen train station facilities and services
Carmarthen has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Carmarthen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carmarthen.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carmarthen: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Carmarthen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carmarthen: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access is available to Platform 1. Platform 2 can be accessed via the ramp at the end of Platform 1 and across a foot crossing, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Reading station do trains from Carmarthen arrive at?
Trains from Carmarthen to Reading most often arrive at Reading. Some services arrive at Tilehurst, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Reading arrival station.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · €2 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
TilehurstTilehurst station, Oxford Road, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 6TH+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Tilehurst from Reading city centre
Tilehurst is 4 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Paddington - Didcot Parkway, Reading - Didcot Parkway · 3m · €2 · every ~4 min
Bus16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 16m · €2 · every ~18 min
16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 19m · €2 · every ~18 min
Tilehurst train station facilities and services
Tilehurst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Tilehurst.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tilehurst.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tilehurst.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tilehurst: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Tilehurst: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tilehurst: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Carmarthen
More options for your journey from Carmarthen to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Carmarthen
Most popular train connections to Reading
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