Considering a train trip from Reading to Cathays? The journey typically lasts around 2hrs 32 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 £26.50, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.
Arrival Station | Cathays |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Reading |
Frequency | 31trains per day |
Journey Time | from1hrs 49 mins |
Changes | 1-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 00:15 / 00:30 |
Distance | 95miles (153 km) |
4 Routes | Via Bristol Temple Meads & Cardiff Central Via Cardiff Central Via Didcot Parkway & Bristol Temple Meads & Cardiff Central Via London Paddington & Cardiff Central |
3 Train Operators | Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, GWR |
Prices | from£26.50 |
Embark on a train journey from Reading to Cathays, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!
The typical travel time is about 2hrs 32 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 1hrs 49 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 Transport for Wales, 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 £26.50, 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 Cathays!
The travel time between Reading and Cathays by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 32 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 49 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Reading to Cathays is 1hrs 49 mins.
Train ticket prices from Reading to Cathays can start from as little as £26.50 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Reading and Cathays 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.
First class tickets on trains between Reading and Cathays typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Reading and Cathays can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Reading and Cathays. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cathays, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Reading & Cathays. However, there are 31 possible journeys which require a change.
Transport for Wales, CrossCountry and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Reading and Cathays.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Reading and Cathays, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Saturday 26th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 10:13 Reading | 12:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:13 Reading | 13:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:13 Reading | 14:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:40 Reading | 14:32 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 52 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:13 Reading | 15:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:13 Reading | 16:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:13 Reading | 17:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:13 Reading | 18:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:42 Reading | 18:32 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 50 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:13 Reading | 19:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:43 Reading | 19:32 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 18:13 Reading | 20:02 Cathays | 1 change | Cardiff Central | 1 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Positioned within the dynamic city of Cardiff, Cathays station serves as a pivotal gateway for local commuters and travelers. Its strategic location near Cardiff University makes it an essential hub for students and visitors alike. As part of the wider UK rail network, Cathays provides efficient services that connect you effortlessly to an array of destinations within and beyond Wales. Whether you're catching a train to Cardiff Central for a city-center adventure or heading out to scenic Barry Island, Cathays station is your dependable departure point.
At Cathays, convenience is a priority. The station offers a ticket office open during weekdays from 06:30 to 19:30. On Saturdays, hours are reduced, yet adequate for a casual weekend jaunt. Automated ticket machines ensure ease of access outside these hours, and with the ability to collect tickets purchased online, your journey begins with minimal fuss. For those concerned with accessibility, the platform configuration may pose challenges with the absence of step-free access across platforms. However, helpful station staff and facilities like induction loops and customer help points are in place to ensure assistance is readily available. CCTV coverage adds an extra layer of security for all travelers.
Navigating beyond the rails is easy at Cathays. The rail replacement bus stop and regular local buses are conveniently located on Park Place, making it simple to plan an onward journey. Though Cathays does not provide ongoing taxi or cycle hire services directly, Cardiff's robust network of public transport ensures you're never far from your next connection.
While the station facilitates efficient ticketing, it misses amenities like shopping outlets, refreshment stands, and public Wi-Fi. Planning ahead by grabbing refreshments prior to arrival could be essential. For cyclists, safe bicycle storage with CCTV ensures your bicycles remain secure during extended visits. Though amenities such as a waiting room are lacking, available seating areas ensure a comfortable stopover.
Cathays is your starting point for an array of adventures. Why not explore Barry’s picturesque seaside or immerse yourself in Swansea’s vibrant culture? For those interested in urban exploration, a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street offers central city excitement. Here are a few key routes to consider: take the scenic journey from Cathays to Barry Island or revel in the academic and cultural offerings just a train ride away, such as from Cathays to Cardiff Central.
Cathays train station is more than just a stop—it's the beginning of a journey, connecting you not only to Cardiff's rich offerings but also to broader locations across the UK. While it may lack some comforts, its strategic placement and robust connections ensure an efficient travel experience. Next time you're planning to venture from Cardiff, consider joining the many passengers who choose Cathays as their travel companion. Grab your tickets with ease, embark on an adventure, and explore the myriad of possibilities this charming station opens up.
With a plethora of destinations at your fingertips and the convenience of ticket purchases and travel updates at your disposal, Cathays station stands as a testament to efficient rail travel in the UK. Remember, wherever your journey takes you next, a smooth start begins with planning and an open mind. Happy travels!