Reading to Cardiff train with Great Western Railway

Mon, Sep 14
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Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14

Cheapest price on Sep 14

$41

Average ticket price on Sep 14

$58

Fastest journey on Sep 14

1 h 23 m

Average journey duration on Sep 14

1 h 25 m

Trains on Sep 14

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 $58 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.

Fast trains

On Mon, Sep 14, we found 6 trains from Reading to Cardiff, including 6 direct services.

On Mon, Sep 14 the direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 1 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 23 m .

On Mon, Sep 14 the slowest trains will take 1 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.

  • Great Western RailwayG14940
    1:41 PM1h27
    Reading station (RDG)
    3:08 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $411One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW34629
    2:40 PM1h26
    Reading station (RDG)
    4:06 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $511One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW34624
    1:13 PM1h24
    Reading station (RDG)
    2:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $611One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35417
    12:13 PM1h23
    Reading station (RDG)
    1:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $611One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW34622
    12:40 PM1h28
    Reading station (RDG)
    2:08 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $611One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Reading to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $76 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 7m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $76, while a train costs an average of $99.

Distance: 95 miles (153 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$99

Average price

$76

Average price

Cheapest

$41

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 57m

Average total duration

4h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 12m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

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 Reading to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $76 (€62).

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

A bus is $22 (€18) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Cardiff costing on average $99 (€80).

The fastest way to travel from Reading to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 1h 37m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 27m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading 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 35m sooner (1h 37m by train vs 2h 12m by car). Tickets start at around $99 (€80) compared to roughly $41 (€33) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Great Western Railway (GWR).

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Reading to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayW3541712:13 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h23
1:36 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW3462212:40 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h28
2:08 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW346241:13 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h24
2:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG149401:41 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h27
3:08 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW354182:13 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h23
3:36 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW346292:40 PM Reading station (RDG)
1h26
4:06 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading 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.

Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20

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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

There are 5 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 21m.

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 37m
Cheapest ticket price
$50 (€41)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
1h 21m
First train
4:40 AM
Last train
11:27 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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)

Train companies: Great Western Railway from Reading to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway 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 Great Western Railway Duration
1h 21m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$50 (€41)
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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 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 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reading to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $99 (€80).
The train from Reading to Cardiff takes 1h 21m and runs 7 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 5 times per day, provided by 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 cheapest way to get from Reading to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
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, a day trip from Reading to Cardiff is feasible with a travel duration of 1h 21m and a distance of 95 miles (153 km). Trains run 7 times per day.
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 Reading to Cardiff.
Since neither Reading 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 Reading 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 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 3451652030ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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 7PYParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
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, UKAccessibility
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.

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