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Trains from Reading to
Cardiff Central

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Reading to Cardiff Central by train

Considering a train trip from Reading to Cardiff Central? The journey typically lasts around 1hrs 50 mins and spans about 95 miles (153 kilometres). With approximately 31 trains running each day, you're spoiled for choice when scheduling your travel. By booking your tickets in advance, you could secure fares starting from just £23.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Reading to Cardiff Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Central

Departure Station

Reading

Frequency

31trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 21 mins

Changes

029 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:15 / 00:30

Distance

95miles
(153 km)

3 Routes

2 Train Operators

Prices

from£23.00

Travelling from Reading to Cardiff Central by Train

Embark on a train journey from Reading to Cardiff Central, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 1hrs 50 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 1hrs 21 mins. With approximately 31 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 95 miles (153 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like CrossCountry, GWR offer comfortable seating with plenty of room for your luggage.

Here's the best part: by booking your tickets in advance, you can snag fares starting from only £23.00, offering a substantial saving over buying tickets at the last minute. For even more savings, consider traveling during Off-Peak times or using a Railcard.

Ready to secure those budget-friendly tickets? Use our Journey Planner to discover the latest deals and keep your travel costs down. Dive into more travel tips below or consult our timetable for up-to-date train schedules. All aboard for Cardiff Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Reading and Cardiff Central

Curious about your trip from Reading to Cardiff Central? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Reading and Cardiff Central by train?

The travel time between Reading and Cardiff Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 50 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 21 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Reading and Cardiff Central by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Reading to Cardiff Central is 1hrs 21 mins.

How much does the train from Reading to Cardiff Central cost?

Train ticket prices from Reading to Cardiff Central can start from as little as £23.00 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Reading and Cardiff Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Reading and Cardiff Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 31 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:15, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:30.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Reading and Cardiff Central?

First class tickets on trains between Reading and Cardiff Central typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Reading and Cardiff Central?

Amenities on trains between Reading and Cardiff Central can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Reading to Cardiff Central by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Reading and Cardiff Central. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Central, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Reading to Cardiff Central?

Yes! There are usually around 29 direct services per day from Reading to Cardiff Central

What train companies run services from Reading to Cardiff Central?

CrossCountry and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Reading and Cardiff Central.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Reading and Cardiff Central?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Reading and Cardiff Central, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Reading to Cardiff Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Reading to Cardiff Central on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
08:43 Reading10:09 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
09:13 Reading10:37 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
09:43 Reading11:07 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
10:13 Reading11:40 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
10:41 Reading12:10 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
11:13 Reading12:36 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
11:41 Reading13:16 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
12:13 Reading13:35 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 22 mins Get Tickets
12:40 Reading14:07 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
13:13 Reading14:36 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
13:41 Reading15:09 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
14:13 Reading15:34 Cardiff CentralDirect1 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Reading to Cardiff Central journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Reading to Cardiff Central start from as little as £23.00

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Reading to Cardiff Central start from £47.10 one way, or £83.90 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Reading to Cardiff Central are available for £125.40 one way, or £250.80 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Reading to Cardiff Central is £31.00 & the average saving on this route is £13.76!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Reading Station

Exploring Reading Train Station

Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, Reading Train Station serves as a key gateway for countless travelers. Balancing its historic charm with modern advancements, the station offers seamless connectivity across the UK. Conveniently positioned on the Great Western Main Line, it opens up quick travel interludes to both London and beyond. Whether you're a commuter, a tourist, or perhaps just someone wandering the British railways, Reading Station is geared to meet various travel needs.

Facilities at Reading Station

Understanding the potential needs of its patrons, Reading Station furnishes extensive facilities. The ticket office operates from morning to night, opening from 06:15 to 22:00 during weekdays and Saturdays, and from 07:15 to 22:00 on Sundays. In addition, ticket machines are plentiful, and most importantly, accessible ticket machines are conveniently located for easy access. Reading Station also facilitates smart card validation, boasts an induction loop, and is reinforced with round-the-clock CCTV.

Accessibility, naturally, is a top priority here. The station provides step-free access throughout its vast span, making platforms easily reachable via lifts and bridges. Furthermore, accessible toilets, waiting rooms, and seating areas are maintained to high standards, ensuring comfort for everyone.

Shopping and dining options are abundant. Refreshment facilities, cash machines, and a selection of shops await travelers. Free public Wi-Fi adds to the comfort, making it easier to continue working or stay entertained while on the move.

Onward Travel Options

Getting to your next destination is seamless with Reading Station's diverse travel connections. Taxi ranks are readily available at both station entrances, ensuring even those with accessibility needs are well-catered to. Buses, too, are nearby, although travelers should note that not all are accessible. For those traveling further afield, frequent connections to both Heathrow and Gatwick Airports are offered, with a luxurious 'RailAir' service to Heathrow and regular trains to Gatwick.

Meanwhile, cyclists can take advantage of plentiful bicycle storage options, although there's no hire facility at the station itself.

Popular Travel Routes from Reading

Reading's strategic location makes it a springboard for numerous journeys. For instance, you can plan rides between Reading and London Paddington, a route popular with both business travelers and tourists. If local travel is on your mind, consider the quick jaunts to locations such as Wokingham or a slightly longer trip to Oxford, famed for its prestigious university and serene landscapes.

Other notable routes include travels to Basingstoke and Gatwick Airport. Whether you're heading for a day out in the country or catching a flight, these connections speak volumes about the station's versatility.

Your Next Journey

In conclusion, Reading Train Station integrates tradition with contemporary demands, catering to an ever-growing community of travelers. With its rich array of services, useful amenities, and robust connectivity options, it’s undoubtedly an essential part of the UK's railway network. Should your next journey be one of the popular routes Reading offers—perhaps venturing towards bustling city life or serene countryside—you can rest assured that the station's comprehensive services will meet your needs splendidly. Don't miss the chance to explore what makes Reading not just a passageway, but a destination in its own right. Happy travels!

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Central Station

Discover Cardiff Central Train Station

Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.

The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.

Connectivity and Travel Links

This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!

Popular Destinations

Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.

In Conclusion

Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Reading