- Must visit
Swansea Museum
Swansea's main museum covers local history, Egyptology, natural history and maritime displays in a historic waterfront building.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Barry to Swansea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £11 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 47m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £11, while a coach costs an average of £25.
Distance: 52 km
| Coach | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£25 Average Price | £11 Average Price Cheapest | £11 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 35m Average total duration 3h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 47m Average total duration Fastest 1h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Barry to Swansea:
A train is £15 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Barry to Swansea costing on average £25.
Other travel options to Swansea take longer:
Coach takes on average 3h 5m.
Tickets start at around £25 compared to roughly £11 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-14.64. The journey takes 3h 5m versus 1h 2m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Compare train and coach 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.
Buses from Barry to Swansea run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £25 but you can travel from only £11 by train.
The earliest coach runs at 00:25, the last at 23:30. The fastest coach covers the 52 km distance in 2h 18m.
Distance 52 km |
Average bus duration 3h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £25 |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 2h 18m |
First bus 0:25 |
Last bus 23:30 |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 49 days |
Discover the best of Swansea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Swansea trip today.
Swansea's main museum covers local history, Egyptology, natural history and maritime displays in a historic waterfront building.
A modern museum in the Maritime Quarter exploring the city's copper, coal, industry and waterfront heritage with interactive exhibits.
A compact museum inside Dylan Thomas Square focusing on the writer's life, works and links to Swansea through exhibitions and events.
A broad sandy sweep along Swansea Bay, popular for walking, cycling and sea views, with easy access from the city centre.
A historic village area by the sea, known for its pier, independent shops, promenade and access to coastal walks.
A large city park with botanical displays, glasshouses, sports facilities and open lawns close to central Swansea.
Traditional Welsh cakes are small griddled currant cakes, served warm with sugar. They are a classic Welsh teatime treat long associated with home baking.
Laverbread is a Welsh speciality made from slow-cooked laver seaweed, often served at breakfast. It is deeply tied to the South Wales coast and local food culture.
A traditional Welsh breakfast in Swansea often includes laverbread and cockles alongside bacon and eggs. It showcases produce gathered from the nearby Gower coast.
Established Swansea seafood spot focused on simple fish, shellfish, and classic British sides in an easy-going atmosphere.
Well-known casual venue in Mumbles serving fresh seafood and fish dishes, with a modern feel and strong local reputation.
Smart waterfront restaurant at the marina serving modern British cooking, steaks, and seafood in a polished setting.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels, meals and local transport are often cheaper than in London, though summer stays and seafront dining can raise daily costs.
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Swansea University Bay Campus -> Swansea Bus Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barry to Swansea by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Swansea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Barry to Swansea buses use the Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) to Swansea, University Bay Campus station pair, with some services arriving at Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station. Use this guide to compare Barry and Swansea bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Swansea, University Bay Campus is 4 km from Swansea city centre. Public transport options include:
Swansea, University Bay Campus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several cafes and a restaurant on campus.
Free Wi-Fi available within campus buildings. ATMs are aTM located near the student union building.
Ticket office support is available at Swansea, University Bay Campus.
Available at Swansea, University Bay Campus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Swansea, University Bay Campus: Campus is accessible with ramps and elevators.
Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food outlets available within the station.
Free WiFi available in the station premises. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station.
Available at Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station: The station is wheelchair accessible.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need