- Must visit
Ashmolean Museum
Oxford’s leading museum of art and archaeology, with Egyptian mummies, classical sculpture and paintings in an elegant university setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Oxford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct
Cheapest price on 13 Oct
£50
Average ticket price on 13 Oct
£71
Fastest journey on 13 Oct
1 h 40 m
Average journey duration on 13 Oct
1 h 45 m
Trains on 13 Oct
12
Distance
136 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Oxford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Oxford will cost around £71 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £50.
Fast trains
To travel from Cardiff to Oxford you need to make at least one change.
G15043 · C478379:492h02Cardiff Central (CDF)11:51Oxford station (OXF)£501One-way1 change- W35187 · G15054 · C4784113:502h01Cardiff Central (CDF)15:51Oxford station (OXF)£501One-way2 changes
- G15046 · W34493 · W3488912:181h59Cardiff Central (CDF)14:17Oxford station (OXF)£501One-way2 changes
- W35434 · W34498 · W3489413:181h58Cardiff Central (CDF)15:16Oxford station (OXF)£501One-way2 changes
- G15047 · G1507012:501h40Cardiff Central (CDF)14:30Oxford station (OXF)£501One-way1 change
- G15041 · G153628:181h40Cardiff Central (CDF)9:58Oxford station (OXF)£811One-way1 change
- G15047 · G1507012:501h40Cardiff Central (CDF)14:30Oxford station (OXF)£501One-way1 change
- W35166 · G150586:511h41Cardiff Central (CDF)8:32Oxford station (OXF)£1231One-way1 change
- G15042 · G150628:381h48Cardiff Central (CDF)10:26Oxford station (OXF)£711One-way1 change
- W35167 · G14897 · W348657:231h55Cardiff Central (CDF)9:18Oxford station (OXF)£1231One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Oxford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Oxford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £37 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 23:07. The fastest train covers the 136 km distance in 1h 24m.
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
Coach from £12
Distance 136 km |
Average train duration 1h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price £37 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 1h 24m |
First train 4:40 |
Last train 23:07 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Coach from £12
Live departures
Cardiff to Oxford train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Oxford trains for today, Monday 12 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W35198 · G14910 · C47847 | On time 17:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h04 | 19:22 Oxford station (OXF) | 2 changes | |
W35198+ G00912 | On time 17:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h20 | 19:38 Oxford station (OXF) | 1 change | |
| W35200 · Y15434 | On time 17:50 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h55 | 19:45 Oxford station (OXF) | 1 change | |
| G15050 · C47848 | On time 18:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h36 | 19:54 Oxford station (OXF) | 1 change | |
| G15022 · W34523 · C00994 | On time 18:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h25 | 20:55 Oxford station (OXF) | 2 changes | |
| W35202 · G14912 · W34918 | On time 19:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h59 | 21:17 Oxford station (OXF) | 2 changes | |
| Tuesday 13 October | |||||
| W35166 · G15058 | 6:51 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h41 | 8:32 Oxford station (OXF) | 1 change | |
| W35167 · G14897 · W34865 | 7:23 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h55 | 9:18 Oxford station (OXF) | 2 changes | |
| G15041 · G15362 | 8:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h40 | 9:58 Oxford station (OXF) | 1 change | |
| G15042 · G15062 | 8:38 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h48 | 10:26 Oxford station (OXF) | 1 change | |
| W35432+G00861 | 9:19 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h19 | 11:38 Oxford station (OXF) | 1 change | |
| G15043 · C47837 | 9:49 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h02 | 11:51 Oxford station (OXF) | 1 change | |
| G15046 · W34493 · W34889 | 12:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h59 | 14:17 Oxford station (OXF) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Oxford trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Oxford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Oxford.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Oxford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Oxford.
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Oxford trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Oxford from £12. 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 Great Western Railway Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£37
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
Complete guide to Oxford
Things to do in Oxford
Discover the best of Oxford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oxford trip today.
- Must visit
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
A fascinating natural history museum known for dinosaur skeletons, minerals and a dramatic neo-Gothic hall. Great for families and curious adults alike.
- Must visit
Pitt Rivers Museum
A compact museum exploring world cultures through objects from many regions. Thoughtful displays make it a rewarding stop beside the natural history museum.
- Must visit
High Street
Oxford’s most famous street, lined with college buildings, churches and historic facades. Ideal for a first walk through the city’s academic heart.
- Must visit
Christ Church Meadow
A broad green beside the college, river and cathedral precincts. Popular for peaceful walks, picnics and classic views of Oxford’s historic skyline.
- Must visit
Radcliffe Square
A historic square framed by major university buildings and the Radcliffe Camera. It is one of the city’s most photogenic and recognisable urban spaces.
Oxford Sausage
Oxford sausages are seasoned pork sausages linked to the city since the 18th century, known for savoury herbs and a coarse texture.
- Vegetarian
Banbury Cake
Banbury cakes are small oval pastries from nearby Banbury, filled with spiced currants and dried fruit; a long-standing Oxfordshire teatime treat.
Oxford Sauce
Oxford sauce is a traditional dark, spicy table sauce made with malt vinegar, anchovies and spices, historically served with meats and game.
The Gardiners Arms
Busy Jericho pub known for Thai food and drinks, with a casual local atmosphere and one of Oxford’s most established dining pubs.
The Perch
Historic riverside pub serving classic British dishes, local ales and seasonal plates in a traditional, atmospheric setting.
The Chop House
Well-known covered market restaurant focused on British produce, steaks and cocktails in a lively, polished brasserie setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Oxford is pricier than many UK cities, with high hotel rates and dining costs, though buses and casual eats are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional, such as small change.
Oxford Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Oxford Railway Station -> Oxford City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel buses; buying in the Oxford Bus app can also be convenient.
- For unlimited travel across participating operators in Oxford, the SmartZone Adult 1 Day ticket costs £5.00.
Best day trips from Oxford by train
The most popular day trips by train from Oxford are London, Reading, Birmingham, Bath and Bristol. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Oxford on Omio.
Day trip from Oxford to London by train
Why visit London for the day?
London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.
How to get from Oxford to London by train?
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 83 km distance in 45m.
Day trip from Oxford to Reading by train
Why visit Reading for the day?
Reading is a busy Thames Valley town known for its music festival, business links and the remains of Reading Abbey. The centre combines modern shopping with riverside paths and a lively food and arts scene.
How to get from Oxford to Reading by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 38 km distance in 21m.
Day trip from Oxford to Birmingham by train
Why visit Birmingham for the day?
Birmingham is known for its industrial past, canal network and diverse food scene. It combines major shopping and cultural landmarks with lively neighbourhoods shaped by manufacturing, music and modern city life.
How to get from Oxford to Birmingham by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:32, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 92 km distance in 1h 0m.
Day trip from Oxford to Bath by train
Why visit Bath for the day?
Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.
How to get from Oxford to Bath by train?
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:55, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 87 km distance in 47m.
Day trip from Oxford to Bristol by train
Why visit Bristol for the day?
Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.
How to get from Oxford to Bristol by train?
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:43, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 98 km distance in 1h 0m.
Trains from Cardiff to Oxford: Journey Details
Hopping on the train from Cardiff to Oxford is a breeze, with frequent services and up to 37 departures a day. Each journey can require one to three changes depending on the time of day. On weekends, trains remain frequent but the timetable is slightly altered.
Which train companies go from Cardiff to Oxford?
Trains from Cardiff to Oxford are provided by Great Western Railways.How long is the train from Cardiff to Oxford?
The train from Cardiff to Oxford takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes on average. All journeys require at least 1 transfer calling at Reading, Bath, Swindon, Didcot Parkway or Bristol Parkway.
When are the first and last trains of the day from Cardiff to Oxford?
From Monday to Friday, services commence as early as 5:12 a.m and roughly run twice an hour until 11:27 p.m. On the weekend, the frequency of trains from Cardiff to Oxford are the same, but the times are slightly different.
When is the best time to book a train ticket from Cardiff to Oxford?
In order to get the best price for train tickets from Cardiff to Oxford it's best advised to book them at least 3 weeks before departure.
Where do trains from Cardiff to Oxford depart from and arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Oxford depart from Cardiff Central Station, located in the city centre. The station is well connected by public transport from all over the city and surrounding areas.
All trains from Cardiff to Oxford arrive at Oxford Railway Station, situated in the heart of the city. Arrival passengers can walk to their central destination if desired. Or hop on the local transport if preferred. There is also a taxi rank outside the terminal.
FAQs: Cardiff to Oxford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Oxford 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 Oxford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Oxford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £37, while the average price tends to be around £56.
The train journey from Cardiff to Oxford covers a distance of 136 km and takes approximately 1h 24m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Oxford is 136 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Oxford leaves at 4:40.
The last train from Cardiff to Oxford departs at 23:07.
Trains from Cardiff to Oxford run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Oxford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Oxford.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Oxford.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Oxford is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Oxford station (OXF).
Booking trains from Cardiff to Oxford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cardiff to Oxford offers a pleasant view of the British countryside, including rolling hills and charming villages, providing a scenic experience for travellers.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Oxford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Oxford
Most Cardiff to Oxford trains use the Cardiff Central to Oxford station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Oxford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Oxford
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · £2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · £2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which Oxford station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Oxford arrive at Oxford. Oxford is 1 km from Oxford city centre.
OxfordOxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Oxford from Oxford city centre
BusS1, Ns1 · 6m · £0.89 · every ~12 min
5, 3, 3A, 400, N3, N400 · 9m · £2 · every ~66 min
X1, X15, 600 · 9m · £2 · every ~14 min
X20, 120 · 10m · every ~10 min
Oxford train station facilities and services
Oxford 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 Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Oxford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford. ATMs are available at Oxford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oxford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oxford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oxford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford: 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 lifts and an overbridge to access platform 4. Safety warning - Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please request staff assistance or call our free help line for, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Situated by the ticket office, 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 Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Oxford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Oxford and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Oxford
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