- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Swindon to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Swindon to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 13m. 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 $13, and a train costs an average of $44.
Distance: 92 miles (149 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$74 Average price | $15 Average price Cheapest | $40 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 43m Average total duration Fastest 2h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 47m Average total duration 4h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg 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 Swindon to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $15 (€12).
This is compared to other travel options from Swindon to Cambridge:
A bus is $59 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Swindon to Cambridge costing on average $74 (€61).
The fastest way to travel from Swindon to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 2h 13m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Swindon and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Swindon to Cambridge 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 25m sooner (2h 13m by train vs 2h 38m by car). Tickets start at around $74 (€61) compared to roughly $40 (€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.
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.
Compare prices and tickets Swindon to Cambridge 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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Why should you book Swindon to Cambridge trains with Omio?
Thameslink as well as Great Northern, Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Swindon to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Swindon to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Northern, Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Swindon to Cambridge.
- 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 Thameslink with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Swindon to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Northern, Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Swindon to Cambridge.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Swindon to Cambridge.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Swindon to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Swindon to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $13 (€10) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:38, the last at 22:19. The fastest train covers the 92 miles (149 km) distance in 2h 28m.
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 $13 (€10)
Distance 92 miles (149 km) |
Average train duration 2h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 28m |
First train 4:38 AM |
Last train 10:19 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
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 $13 (€10)
Train companies: Thameslink, Great Northern, Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Swindon to Cambridge trainsThameslink, Great Northern, Great Western Railway, Greater Anglia, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Swindon and Cambridge from $13 (€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
2h 28m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
Great Western Railway frequency
5 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
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 6m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
Greater Anglia frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 46m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€51)
Thameslink frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Great Northern
About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€34)
Great Northern frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Price
$165 (€136)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Recommended
Scott Polar Research Institute Museum
Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.
- Must visit
The Backs
The city's most famous riverside walking area, lined with college gardens and views. Classic place for strolling, punting and photography.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic central square with market stalls, buskers and everyday city life. A practical and lively base for sightseeing and shopping.
- Recommended
Jesus Green
Leafy riverside common ideal for walking, picnics and broad views of the college skyline. Popular with locals and visitors year-round.
- Vegetarian
Cambridge Burnt Cream
A creamy dessert of whipped cream, meringue and raspberry coulis, created at Cambridge’s Trinity College and named after the River Cam.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Trinity Cream
The Cambridge version of crème brûlée, linked to Trinity College. It has a rich custard base with a hard caramelised sugar top.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridgeshire Asparagus
Tender local asparagus from the Cambridgeshire fens, prized in spring for its sweetness and freshness, often served simply with butter or eggs.
Midsummer House
Elegant riverside fine dining restaurant known for refined British tasting menus and polished service in a historic setting.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
Historic city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking with seasonal ingredients in a smart, intimate atmosphere.
The Eagle
Well-known Cambridge pub and dining room offering classic British dishes, cask ales and a lively, traditional atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual 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
Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
FAQs: Trains from Swindon to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Swindon to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Swindon to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44 (€36), while the average price is around $74 (€61).
The train from Swindon to Cambridge takes 2h 28m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Swindon to Cambridge is 92 miles (149 km).
The first train from Swindon to Cambridge leaves at 4:38 AM.
The last train from Swindon to Cambridge leaves at 10:19 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Swindon to Cambridge.
There is no direct train service currently available from Swindon to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Swindon to Cambridge.
The train station in Swindon that goes to Cambridge is Swindon station (SWI), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Swindon to Cambridge is by bus, with a cost of around $13 (€10).
The train journey from Swindon to Cambridge primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, with some stretches offering views of the English countryside, including fields and small villages, but it is not typically highlighted as particularly scenic.
A day trip from Swindon to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 28m. The distance is 92 miles (149 km), and the frequency of trains is 5 per day.
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.
Yes, you can take the train from Swindon to Cambridge.
Since neither Swindon nor Cambridge 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 Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Swindon to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help 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 Swindon to Cambridge
Most Swindon to Cambridge trains use the Swindon to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge North. Use this guide to compare Swindon and Cambridge train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Swindon
Arrival train stations in Cambridge
Which Swindon station do trains to Cambridge leave from?
Trains from Swindon to Cambridge leave from Swindon. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Swindon city centre at Swindon station, Station Road, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 1DQ.
SwindonSwindon station, Station Road, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 1DQ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Swindon from Swindon city centre
Bus82, 49 · 6m · $5 · every ~6 min
Swindon train station facilities and services
Swindon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Swindon.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Swindon. ATMs are available at Swindon.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Swindon.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Swindon: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Swindon: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Swindon: 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 subway and the lifts via the main entrance subway, 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 taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Cambridge station do trains from Swindon arrive at?
Trains from Swindon to Cambridge most often arrive at Cambridge. Some services arrive at Cambridge North, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cambridge arrival station.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · $2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · $2 · every ~11 min
Cambridge train station facilities and services
Cambridge 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 Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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.
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · $2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · $2 · every ~19 min
Cambridge North train station facilities and services
Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, 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: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Swindon
More options for your journey from Swindon to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cambridge and Swindon
Most popular train connections to Cambridge
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