- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$98
Average price
$154
Fastest journey
1 h 56 m
Average duration
2 h 12 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Cardiff will cost around $154 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Reading for Cardiff on Fri, Jul 31, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 2 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 56 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest trains will take 2 h 24 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.
G149389:41 AM1h59Reading station (RDG)11:40 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$981One-way0 transfers- G14956 · G154969:55 AM2h22Reading station (RDG)12:17 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1031One-way1 transfer
- G149368:41 AM1h56Reading station (RDG)10:37 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1291One-way0 transfers
- G14954 · G154958:55 AM2h24Reading station (RDG)11:19 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1991One-way1 transfer
- G15030 · G15061 · G154958:58 AM2h21Reading station (RDG)11:19 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1991One-way2 transfers
- G149368:41 AM1h56Reading station (RDG)10:37 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1291One-way0 transfers
- G149389:41 AM1h59Reading station (RDG)11:40 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$981One-way0 transfers
- G15030 · G15061 · G154958:58 AM2h21Reading station (RDG)11:19 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1991One-way2 transfers
- G14956 · G154969:55 AM2h22Reading station (RDG)12:17 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1031One-way1 transfer
- G14954 · G154958:55 AM2h24Reading station (RDG)11:19 AMCardiff Central (CDF)$1991One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Cardiff run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $45 (€37) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 23:27. The fastest train covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 1h 23m.
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 $11 (€9)
Distance 95 miles (153 km) |
Average train duration 1h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 (€37) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 1h 23m |
First train 4:40 AM |
Last train 11:27 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 91 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 $11 (€9)
Live departures
Reading to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G14936 | 8:41 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h56 | 10:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G14954 · G15495 | 8:55 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h24 | 11:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G15030 · G15061 · G15495 | 8:58 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h21 | 11:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
G15030+ G01098 | 8:58 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h27 | 11:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G14938 | 9:41 AM Reading station (RDG) | 1h59 | 11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G14956 · G15496 | 9:55 AM Reading station (RDG) | 2h22 | 12:17 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Reading to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading 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 Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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 Reading to Cardiff.
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 Reading to Cardiff.
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Cardiff from $11 (€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
1h 23m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 22m
Cheapest Price
$134 (€110)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
25 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
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card and mobile payments on buses. Exact fare is not needed if you pay contactless.
- For rail travel around Cardiff, use the official Transport for Wales app for tickets and live times.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Cardiff by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $45 (€37), while the average price is around $68 (€56).
The train from Reading to Cardiff takes 1h 23m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Reading to Cardiff is 95 miles (153 km).
The first train from Reading to Cardiff leaves at 4:40 AM.
The last train from Reading to Cardiff leaves at 11:27 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Cardiff. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Cardiff.
The train station in Reading that goes to Cardiff is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The train journey from Reading to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with scenic views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and the River Severn, particularly as you approach Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Cardiff.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
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 Reading to Cardiff
Most Reading to Cardiff trains use the Reading to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cathays. Use this guide to compare Reading and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Reading
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Reading station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Reading to Cardiff leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
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.
Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre
Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · $1 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · $2 · every ~49 min
Reading West train station facilities and services
Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading West.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading West: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. 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 taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Reading Green ParkReading RG2 6AU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading Green Park from Reading city centre
Reading Green Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainReading - Basingstoke · 6m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · $2 · every ~3 min
Reading Green Park train station facilities and services
Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.
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.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
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 4EY
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.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Reading
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