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Trains from Theale to
Cardiff Bay

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Theale to Cardiff Bay by train

Considering a train trip from Theale to Cardiff Bay? The journey typically lasts around 2hrs 54 mins and spans about 90 miles (145 kilometres). With approximately 23 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.

Theale to Cardiff Bay Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cardiff Bay

Departure Station

Theale

Frequency

23trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 10 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:50 / 00:06

Distance

90miles
(145 km)

1 Routes

2 Train Operators

Prices

from£26.50

Travelling from Theale to Cardiff Bay by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 2hrs 54 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 10 mins. With approximately 23 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 90 miles (145 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like GWR, Transport for Wales 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 Cardiff Bay!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Theale and Cardiff Bay

Curious about your trip from Theale to Cardiff Bay? 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 Theale and Cardiff Bay by train?

The travel time between Theale and Cardiff Bay by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 54 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 10 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Theale and Cardiff Bay by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Theale to Cardiff Bay is 2hrs 10 mins.

How much does the train from Theale to Cardiff Bay cost?

Train ticket prices from Theale to Cardiff Bay 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Theale and Cardiff Bay?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Theale and Cardiff Bay vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 23 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:50, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:06.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Theale and Cardiff Bay?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Theale and Cardiff Bay?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Theale to Cardiff Bay by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Theale and Cardiff Bay. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cardiff Bay, 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 Theale to Cardiff Bay?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Theale & Cardiff Bay. However, there are 23 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Theale to Cardiff Bay?

GWR and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Theale and Cardiff Bay.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Theale and Cardiff Bay?

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

When are Theale to Cardiff Bay Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Theale to Cardiff Bay on Monday 28th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 28th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
13:27 Theale15:54 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
14:10 Theale16:36 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
14:40 Theale17:06 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
15:28 Theale18:06 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
16:48 Theale19:06 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
17:25 Theale19:36 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
18:16 Theale20:54 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
18:42 Theale21:06 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
19:56 Theale22:06 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
20:35 Theale23:24 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
2 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
22:11 Theale06:36 Cardiff Bay3 changesReading
Cardiff Central
Cardiff Queen Street
8 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Theale to Cardiff Bay 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 Theale to Cardiff Bay start from as little as £26.50

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 Theale to Cardiff Bay start from £47.10 one way, or £84.10 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 Theale to Cardiff Bay are available for £49.40 one way, or £56.20 return

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

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

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 Theale Station

Theale Train Station: Your Gateway to the Heart of Berkshire

If you find yourself planning an adventure or a daily commute in England, Theale Train Station is your gateway to the charms and conveniences of Berkshire and beyond. Known for its pivotal location, Theale offers an array of facilities that provide both comfort and convenience to travelers. Whether you're a regular commuter or an occasional visitor, Theale station is ready to serve your needs with its variety of services.

Station Amenities and Services

Theale Train Station is built to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. From purchasing your tickets to boarding your train, everything is designed to be as user-friendly as possible. You’ll find a ticket office, which is open from 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM on weekdays, and slightly varied hours during weekends. The convenience of ticket machines is also present, allowing you to collect tickets or use accessible options. Despite these conveniences, the station does not boast amenities such as refreshment facilities, shops, or a waiting lounge. However, it is equipped with helpful customer information resources including departure screens and announcements.

Accessibility Features

Theale station is dedicated to providing accessibility-focused services, although it's essential to note that it lacks step-free access to the platforms. For travelers with mobility impairments, accessible ticket machines are available, and there are designated set-down and pick-up points for easy drop-offs. However, it’s worth mentioning that wheelchairs, ramps, and accessible toilets are not available at the station.

Parking and Cycling

For those who prefer driving, the station's car park operates 24/7 under APCOA Parking, offering 189 spaces with 11 accessible ones. Parking charges are reasonable with options ranging from daily to annual passes. Bicycle enthusiasts are also catered to, with five sheltered spaces for your two-wheeled friends, monitored by CCTV for safety. However, if you're looking to hire a bicycle, you might need to make other arrangements as this service isn’t provided on-site.

Onward Travel Options

Traveling from Theale to other locations couldn't be easier. While there aren’t direct taxi services available from the station, comprehensive bus services can help you plan your journey with information available in printable formats online. If your travels take you further afield, connections to airports like Heathrow and Gatwick can be conveniently made by changing at Reading, while Bristol Airport is accessible via Bristol Temple Meads. Bike lovers might be slightly disappointed to know that bicycle hire facilities are not available, but the local area is certainly navigable on wheels if you've brought your own.

Destinations and Travel Inspiration

From Theale station, the rail network opens up a world of possibilities for your travel itinerary. Popular routes include journeys to vibrant London Paddington, historic Oxford, or the more local, yet equally charming, Reading and Newbury. You could also explore neighboring towns such as Maidenhead and Wokingham, or escape into the countryside to adventure at Newbury Racecourse. With Theale connecting to such a variety of destinations, the world—or at least the southeast of England—is your oyster.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a journey from Theale Train Station means more than just getting from point A to point B. It's about the comfort, reliability, and connectivity that the station offers, ensuring that whether you’re making a quick commute or embarking on a longer trip, your needs are considered and met. While it has room for improvement in certain amenities like shopping and dining, it provides essential services efficiently, which is paramount for travelers. So next time you plan a journey involving trains, consider starting from Theale, where the heart of Berkshire opens up all of England’s possibilities.

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Bay Station

Explore Cardiff Bay Train Station: Your Gateway to Adventure

Looking to explore the beautiful Cardiff Bay area or need a convenient station for your daily commute? Cardiff Bay Train Station is a hub poised to cater to every traveler, whether you're visiting for leisure or business. Although a smaller station, it offers essential services to kickstart your journey with ease.

Facilities at Cardiff Bay Station

While Cardiff Bay Train Station may not boast extensive amenities, it does efficiently cover the key necessities for travelers. You won't find a ticket office but don’t fret! Ticket machines are there to facilitate collection of pre-purchased tickets, accept both cash and cards, and are accessible for all travelers, including those who use wheelchairs. Notably, the station provides step-free access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, maintaining its 'Category A' accessibility status.

For those curious about smart travel, Cardiff Bay does not issue smartcards, but validators are available for use. And should you need assistance, a help point is there, alongside departure and arrival screens, ensuring you’re kept in the loop about train statuses. Be sure to take advantage of the assistance service, which permits bookings up to two hours before your trip starts. Whenever needed, contacting the Transport for Wales Customer Relations team is a few clicks away.

Getting There and Away: Transport Connections

Effortlessly commute in and out of Cardiff Bay with the station’s array of transport links. A strategically placed rail replacement bus stop awaits on Bute Street, and bus services are conveniently available right outside the station. If you fancy cycling over public transport, Nextbike/Ovo bike sharing has you covered, with docking stations ready at Lloyd George Avenue for exploring the city on two wheels.

Travel Inspiration: Destinations from Cardiff Bay

Cardiff Bay is more than just a starting point; it’s a gateway to numerous popular destinations throughout Wales. Plan a quick trip to Cardiff Queen Street for shopping or head towards Cardiff Central for further connections. Delight in a scenic ride to Barry Island, or join the cultural festivities in Swansea. Whether for work or pleasure, hopping on a train from Cardiff Bay will take you anywhere you need to go with ease.

Wrap Up Your Cardiff Journey

While it may not resemble the grand European stations with vast facilities, Cardiff Bay Train Station still holds its charm. Simple, efficient, and conveniently located, it stands ready to cater to your travel needs without hassle. So, plan your trip, grab your tickets, and let Cardiff Bay Train Station be your gateway to exploring the vibrant scenes and serene landscapes of Wales.

Need more detailed travel information or want to organize your tickets beforehand? Visit National Rail's official website for a seamless experience.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Theale