- Must visit
National Waterfront Museum
Major waterfront museum covering Wales's industrial and maritime story with interactive galleries in a landmark copper-smelting area.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Swansea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€44
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€62
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h 19 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 28 m
Trains on Sep 20
5
Distance
206 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Swansea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Swansea will cost around €62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €44.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 5 trains from Reading to Swansea, including 5 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 206 km distance in an average of 2 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 19 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 56 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.
8:10 PM2h19Reading10:29 PMSwansea€441One-way0 transfers- 12:10 PM2h25Reading2:35 PMSwansea€651One-way0 transfers
- 10:10 AM2h19Reading12:29 PMSwansea€661One-way0 transfers
- 9:11 PM2h19Reading11:30 PMSwansea€661One-way0 transfers
- 7:59 AM2h56Reading10:55 AMSwansea€671One-way0 transfers
- 10:10 AM2h19Reading12:29 PMSwansea€661One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 PM2h19Reading10:29 PMSwansea€441One-way0 transfers
- 9:11 PM2h19Reading11:30 PMSwansea€661One-way0 transfers
- 12:10 PM2h25Reading2:35 PMSwansea€651One-way0 transfers
- 7:59 AM2h56Reading10:55 AMSwansea€671One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Reading to Swansea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Swansea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €25 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 12m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €25, while a train costs an average of €76.
Distance: 128 miles (206 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€76 Average price | €25 Average price Cheapest | €44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 39m Average total duration 4h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Swansea is a bus with an average price of €25.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Swansea:
A bus is €51 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Swansea costing on average €76.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Swansea is by train with an average journey time of 2h 42m.
Other travel options to Swansea take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Swansea including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Swansea 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 42m by train vs 2h 49m by car). Tickets start at around €76 compared to roughly €44 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.
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 Swansea train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Swansea trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:13 PM Reading | 3h15 | 4:28 PM Swansea | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:13 PM Reading | 2h19 | 5:32 PM Swansea | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:43 PM Reading | 2h21 | 8:04 PM Swansea | 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 Swansea 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Reading to Swansea trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Reading to Swansea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Swansea.
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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Swansea.
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 Swansea.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Swansea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Swansea run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €55 but you can travel from only €17 by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:38, the last at 23:27. The fastest train covers the 128 miles (206 km) distance in 2h 16m.
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 €17
Distance 128 miles (206 km) |
Average train duration 2h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price €55 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 16m |
First train 3:38 AM |
Last train 11:27 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 7 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 €17
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Reading to Swansea trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Reading and Swansea from €17. 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
2h 16m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€55
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 Swansea
Things to do in Swansea
Discover the best of Swansea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Swansea trip today.
- Recommended
Swansea Museum
Excellent local museum on Swansea's history, Egyptology, natural history, and ceramics, housed in an elegant city-centre building.
- Recommended
Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
Contemporary art centre presenting changing exhibitions by Welsh and international artists in a bright, modern waterfront space.
- Must visit
Swansea Bay Promenade
Wide sandy bay backed by a long promenade, ideal for walking, cycling, sunsets, and classic views across Swansea Bay.
- Must visit
Mumbles
Historic fishing village turned lively seaside district, loved for the pier, independent shops, sea views, and access to coastal walks.
- Must visit
Pennard Cliffs
Dramatic clifftop path section on Gower with famous views over Three Cliffs Bay, perfect for hikers and photographers.
- Vegetarian
Bara Brith
A rich Welsh fruit loaf packed with dried fruit and tea-soaked flavor, traditionally sliced and served with butter at tea time.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A traditional Welsh seaweed puree, often served with oats and laverbread cakes. It is a signature food of the Swansea Bay coastline.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Welsh cheddar melted with ale and mustard on toast. This comforting pub classic is strongly associated with Welsh home cooking.
Joe's Ice Cream Parlour
Popular casual spot for quality Welsh ice cream and desserts on Mumbles seafront, loved for local flavor and sea views nearby.
The Shed Restaurant
Well-regarded waterfront restaurant known for modern British cooking, seafood, and polished service in a smart contemporary setting.
Swansea Market
Historic market venue famous for traditional Welsh breakfast, laverbread, and cockles in a lively local atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while buses, cafes, and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is polite if service is not included. Round up taxi fares; cafes usually only get small change or none.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Swansea Railway Station -> Swansea Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Swansea. Ask for the cheapest fare or day ticket when boarding.
- Swansea has no tram or metro system; local public transport is mainly by bus and rail. Check live bus times in the First Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Reading to Swansea
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Swansea 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 Swansea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Swansea can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €55, while the average price is around €76.
The train from Reading to Swansea takes 2h 16m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Reading to Swansea leaves at 3:38 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Swansea is 128 miles (206 km).
The last train from Reading to Swansea leaves at 11:27 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Swansea.
Yes, there is a direct train from Reading to Swansea. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Swansea.
The train station in Reading that goes to Swansea is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Swansea station (SWA).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Swansea is by bus, with a cost of around €17.
The train journey from Reading to Swansea offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the South Wales countryside, with highlights including the rolling hills and the Severn Estuary.
A day trip from Reading to Swansea is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 16m. However, trains run 6 times per day. The distance is 128 miles (206 km).
For a fulfilling experience in Swansea, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended to explore its main attractions like the Swansea Bay, National Waterfront Museum, and nearby Gower Peninsula.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Swansea.
Since neither Reading nor Swansea 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 Swansea include Cardiff, Neath, Carmarthen, Llanelli, Bridgend.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reading to Swansea 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 Swansea, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Swansea Market and popular nightlife spots. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and only use official transportation services. Be wary of street scams involving unofficial ticket sellers or overly aggressive vendors, and always keep personal belongings secure when visiting busy attractions.
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 Swansea
Most Reading to Swansea trains use the Reading to Swansea station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Swansea 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 Swansea
Which Reading station do trains to Swansea leave from?
Trains from Reading to Swansea 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.
Which Swansea station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Swansea arrive at Swansea. Swansea is 0 miles (1 km) from Swansea city centre.
SwanseaSwansea station, High Street, Swansea, City & County of Swansea, SA1 1NU+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Swansea from Swansea city centre
Bus49, 30, 54 · 3m · €4 · every ~3 min
Swansea train station facilities and services
Swansea has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Swansea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Swansea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Swansea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Swansea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Swansea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Swansea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access to all platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: on concourse, 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.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Swansea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Swansea and Reading
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
