Cardiff to Oxford train with Great Western Railway

Wed 15 Jul
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Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway (GWR)
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Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Oxford

Showing times and prices for 15 Jul

Cheapest price

£48

Average price

£57

Fastest journey

1 h 46 m

Average duration

2 h

Trains per day

5

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 £57 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £48.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Cardiff for Oxford every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 136 km distance in an average of 2 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 46 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 23 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Great Western Railway
    9:492h02
    Cardiff
    11:51Oxford
    £481One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western Railway
    8:492h02
    Cardiff
    10:51Oxford
    £491One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western Railway
    9:282h23
    Cardiff
    11:51Oxford
    £511One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western Railway
    8:381h46
    Cardiff
    10:24Oxford
    £691One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western Railway
    7:381h46
    Cardiff
    9:24Oxford
    £691One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Oxford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Oxford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 7m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £13, and a train costs an average of £46.

Distance: 136 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£52

Average Price

£24

Average Price

Cheapest

2h 37m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 42m

Average total duration

4h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cardiff to Oxford train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Oxford trains for today, Tuesday 14 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Great Western Railway4:07 Cardiff
2h17
6:24 Oxford0 changesdirect
Great Western Railway7:38 Cardiff
1h46
9:24 Oxford0 changesdirect
Great Western Railway8:38 Cardiff
1h46
10:24 Oxford0 changesdirect
Great Western Railway8:49 Cardiff
2h02
10:51 Oxford0 changesdirect
Great Western Railway9:49 Cardiff
2h02
11:51 Oxford0 changesdirect
Great Western Railway13:30 Cardiff
2h21
15:51 Oxford0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Oxford by train or coach

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.

Wed
15 Jul
Thu
16 Jul
Fri
17 Jul
Sat
18 Jul
Sun
19 Jul
Mon
20 Jul
Tue
21 Jul
Wed
22 Jul
Thu
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24 Jul
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25 Jul
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27 Jul
Tue
28 Jul

Why should you book Cardiff to Oxford trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer 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?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Oxford.
  • 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?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Oxford.
  • 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.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Oxford?

The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Oxford is 5 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Oxford route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Oxford per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cardiff to Oxford.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Oxford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Oxford run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £46 but you can travel from only £13 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 23:07. The fastest train covers the 136 km distance in 1h 40m.

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 £13
Distance
136 km
Average train duration
2h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
£46
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
1h 40m
First train
4:40
Last train
23:07
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
2 days
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 £13

Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff to Oxford trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff and Oxford from £13. 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 Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest Price
£46
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

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest Price
£50
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 55m
Cheapest Price
£123
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
16 a day

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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Oxford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £46, while the average price tends to be around £52.
The train journey from Cardiff to Oxford covers a distance of 136 km and takes approximately 1h 40m. Trains run 8 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 8 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.
To get from Cardiff to Oxford, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
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).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Oxford is by coach, costing approximately £13.
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, a day trip from Cardiff to Oxford is feasible with a travel duration of 1h 40m and a distance of 136 km. Trains run 7 times per day.
In Oxford, you can visit the University of Oxford to explore its historic colleges and libraries. Tour the Ashmolean Museum to discover an extensive collection of art and archaeology. Enjoy the diverse plant collections at the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest in the UK. Explore the Covered Market to browse local shops and eateries. Climb the Carfax Tower for panoramic views of the city. Don't miss the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and Christ Church College for their stunning architecture and historical significance.
To fully experience Oxford, including its historic university, museums, and picturesque streets, a 2 to 3-day visit is recommended.
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, with some services arriving at Oxford Parkway. 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 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre

TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · £0.90 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min

Cathays train station facilities and services

Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cathays.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cathays: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time, 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.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
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.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Oxford

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Oxford Cardiff to Oxford train

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