Oxford to Cardiff train with Great Western Railway

Thu, Jul 30
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Oxford to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Jul 30

Cheapest price

$56

Average price

$93

Fastest journey

2 h 5 m

Average duration

2 h 12 m

Trains per day

17

Distance

136 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Oxford to Cardiff will cost around $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Oxford to Cardiff without transferring at least once.

  • Great Western RailwayW35362 · W34618
    10:29 AM2h08
    Oxford station (OXF)
    12:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $561One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayG15069 · G15499
    1:03 PM2h19
    Oxford station (OXF)
    3:22 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $561One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayG15065 · G15497
    11:03 AM2h19
    Oxford station (OXF)
    1:22 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $561One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayG15511 · G14959 · W34624
    12:06 PM2h31
    Oxford station (OXF)
    2:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $561One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35369 · W35418
    1:31 PM2h05
    Oxford station (OXF)
    3:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $561One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Oxford to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oxford to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 6m. 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 $10, and a train costs an average of $37.

Distance: 84 miles (136 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$77

Average price

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$31

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 17m

Average total duration

4h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 13m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Oxford to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $32 (€32).

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

A bus is $45 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oxford to Cardiff costing on average $77 (€77).

The fastest way to travel from Oxford to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 6m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 47m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Oxford and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Oxford 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 7m sooner (2h 6m by train vs 2h 13m by car). Tickets start at around $77 (€77) compared to roughly $31 (€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

Oxford to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Oxford to Cardiff trains for today, Wednesday, July 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayW35369 · W35418
On time
1:31 PM Oxford station (OXF)
2h05
3:36 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35371 · W34630
On time
2:31 PM Oxford station (OXF)
2h07
4:38 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Thursday, July 30
Great Western RailwayW34851 · W354156:00 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h39
8:39 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC48418 · G14977 · W354156:04 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h35
8:39 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC48420 · W35060+CrossCountryG010926:34 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h51
9:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34855 · G149347:25 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h11
9:36 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15119 · G149367:30 AM Oxford station (OXF)
3h07
10:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15358 · W35061+CrossCountryG010957:35 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h50
10:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG15061 · G154959:03 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h16
11:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15509 · G14955 · G149389:07 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h33
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
CrossCountryG01000+Great Western RailwayG14956 · G154969:18 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h59
12:17 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW35362 · W3461810:29 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h08
12:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15065 · G1549711:03 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2h19
1:22 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW34877 · W3462412:00 PM Oxford station (OXF)
2h37
2:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15511 · G14959 · W3462412:06 PM Oxford station (OXF)
2h31
2:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG15511 · G14959 · G1501112:06 PM Oxford station (OXF)
2h43
2:49 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG15069 · G154991:03 PM Oxford station (OXF)
2h19
3:22 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15364 · G14961 · W349991:07 PM Oxford station (OXF)
2h39
3:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Oxford 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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Jul 30
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Aug 03
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Aug 05

Why should you book Oxford to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Oxford to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Oxford 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, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Oxford 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 Oxford to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Oxford to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Oxford to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€37) but you can travel from only $10 (€10) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 23:07. The fastest train covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 1h 32m.

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 $10 (€10)
Distance
84 miles (136 km)
Average train duration
2h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$37 (€37)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
1h 32m
First train
4:40 AM
Last train
11:07 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
49 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 $10 (€10)

Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Oxford to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Oxford and Cardiff from $10 (€10). 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
1h 32m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€37)
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 41m
Cheapest Price
$66 (€66)
CrossCountry frequency
3 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
1h 55m
Cheapest Price
$145 (€145)
Cross Country frequency
7 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€111)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
18 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

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Oxford to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oxford 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Oxford to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€37), while the average price is around $77 (€77).
The train from Oxford to Cardiff takes 1h 32m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Oxford to Cardiff is 84 miles (136 km).
The first train from Oxford to Cardiff leaves at 4:40 AM.
The last train from Oxford to Cardiff leaves at 11:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Oxford to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Oxford to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Oxford to Cardiff.
The train station in Oxford that goes to Cardiff is Oxford station (OXF), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Oxford to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $10 (€10).
The train journey from Oxford to Cardiff offers some scenic views, particularly through the Cotswolds, showcasing rolling hills, charming villages, and picturesque countryside landscapes along the way.
Yes, a day trip from Oxford to Cardiff is feasible with a travel duration of 1h 32m and trains running 7 times per day for the 84 miles (136 km) journey.
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 Oxford to Cardiff.
Since neither Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford to Cardiff

Most Oxford to Cardiff trains use the Oxford to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Oxford and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Oxford
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Oxford station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Oxford to Cardiff leave from Oxford. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Oxford city centre at Oxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS.
OxfordOxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS+44 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Oxford from Oxford city centre

BusS1, Ns1 · 6m · $1 · every ~12 min
5, 3, 3A, 400, N3, N400 · 9m · $2 · every ~66 min
X1, X15, 600 · 9m · $2 · every ~14 min
X20, 120 · 10m · every ~10 min

Oxford train station facilities and services

Oxford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, 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 Oxford.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Oxford. ATMs are available at Oxford.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Oxford.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Oxford: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Oxford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford: 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 all platforms via lifts and an overbridge to access platform 4. Safety warning - Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please request staff assistance or call our free help line for, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Situated by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Oxford ParkwayOxford Parkway station, Water Eaton Park & Ride, Banbury Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 8HAWifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Oxford Parkway from Oxford city centre

Oxford Parkway is 5 km from Oxford city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainOxford - London Marylebone, Oxford - High Wycombe, Oxford - Bicester Village, Oxford - Gerrards Cross · 8m · $2 · every ~4 min
BusS4, 2, 2A, N2, S5, Ns5, S7, X4, 800 · 20m · $4 · every ~51 min
700 · 22m · $4 · every ~9 min

Oxford Parkway train station facilities and services

Oxford Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Oxford Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Oxford Parkway. ATMs are available at Oxford Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Oxford Parkway. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03456 005 165, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Oxford Parkway: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Oxford Parkway: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to platforms via lifts, 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: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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