- Must visit
Reading Museum
Reading’s main museum explores local history, archaeology, and art. Best known for the Victorian copy of the Bayeux Tapestry.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct
Cheapest price on 08 Oct
£44
Average ticket price on 08 Oct
£48
Fastest journey on 08 Oct
1 h 23 m
Average journey duration on 08 Oct
1 h 27 m
Trains on 08 Oct
7
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Reading will cost around £48 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £44.
Fast trains
On Thu 08 Oct, we found 7 trains from Cardiff to Reading, including 7 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 23 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 30 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.
10:501h30Cardiff12:20Reading£441One-way0 changes- 9:501h30Cardiff11:20Reading£461One-way0 changes
- 16:501h26Cardiff18:16Reading£471One-way0 changes
- 9:491h29Cardiff11:18Reading£491One-way0 changes
- 15:181h27Cardiff16:45Reading£501One-way0 changes
- 21:201h23Cardiff22:43Reading£501One-way0 changes
- 16:501h26Cardiff18:16Reading£471One-way0 changes
- 15:181h27Cardiff16:45Reading£501One-way0 changes
- 9:491h29Cardiff11:18Reading£491One-way0 changes
- 10:501h30Cardiff12:20Reading£441One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £8 by coach.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 153 km distance in 1h 22m.
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 £8
Distance 153 km |
Average train duration 1h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price £36 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 22m |
First train 5:07 |
Last train 23:28 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 £8
Live departures
Cardiff to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Reading trains for today, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:38 Cardiff | 1h30 | 9:08 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:38 Cardiff | 1h30 | 10:08 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:49 Cardiff | 1h29 | 11:18 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:50 Cardiff | 1h30 | 11:20 Reading | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:50 Cardiff | 1h26 | 14:16 Reading | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Reading.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Reading.
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Reading trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Reading from £8. 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 22m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£36
Great Western Railway frequency
6 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 Reading
Things to do in Reading
Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.
- Must visit
The Museum of English Rural Life
Small museum beside the abbey ruins with exhibits on Reading’s medieval abbey. Good for context before walking the historic quarter.
- Recommended
Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
University museum covering farming, countryside life, and design. Engaging displays make it a distinctive and family-friendly visit.
- Must visit
Forbury Gardens
Large riverside park with formal gardens, open lawns, and abbey remains. Ideal for relaxing walks close to the town centre.
- Recommended
Broad Street
Traffic-free shopping street at the heart of Reading. A practical and lively route linking major shops, historic lanes, and public spaces.
- Recommended
Thames Side Promenade
Riverside walking area along the Thames near Caversham Bridge. Visit for benches, water views, and an easy stroll near the centre.
Berkshire pork sausages
Berkshire pork sausages are a long-standing county staple, prized for well-seasoned local pork and often served with mash in traditional pubs.
- Vegetarian
Spotted dick
Spotted dick is a classic steamed suet pudding with dried fruit, commonly served with custard and strongly associated with traditional English cooking.
- Vegetarian
Summer pudding
Summer pudding is a Berkshire favourite in berry season, made by lining bread with soft fruit and juice for a bright, old-fashioned local dessert.
L'Ortolan
Refined modern British dining in elegant surroundings, known for carefully plated tasting-style dishes and polished service.
The Cunning Man
Traditional pub by the Thames serving British classics, Sunday roasts and local drinks in a relaxed historic setting.
Miller & Carter Oracle
Popular central Reading restaurant specialising in well-cooked steaks, grills and hearty sides in a lively contemporary space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels are often cheaper than London, but dining, drinks and rail fares still add up for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip about 10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Reading Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.90
To the city centre
Reading Station -> Reading Station, Reading
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Contactless payment works on all Reading Buses services, and daily charges are capped automatically at the day ticket rate.
- For multi-operator travel, the Reading All-Bus Day ticket covers Reading Buses and selected other local operators.
Best day trips from Reading by train
The most popular day trips by train from Reading are London, Oxford, Bath, Bristol and Windsor. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Reading on Omio.
Day trip from Reading 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 Reading to London by train?
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 59 km distance in 22m.
Day trip from Reading to Oxford by train
Why visit Oxford for the day?
Oxford is known for its historic university, elegant colleges and long academic tradition. Its medieval streets, museums and riverside setting give the city a thoughtful but lively character.
How to get from Reading to Oxford 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 Reading 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 Reading to Bath by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 97 km distance in 48m.
Day trip from Reading 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 Reading to Bristol by train?
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 113 km distance in 54m.
Day trip from Reading to Windsor by train
Why visit Windsor for the day?
Windsor is a historic Thames-side town known for Windsor Castle and its strong royal identity. Its compact centre, riverside setting and nearby parkland give it a refined but approachable character.
How to get from Reading to Windsor by train?
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 26 km distance in 16m.
FAQs: Cardiff to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Reading 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 Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £56.
The train journey from Cardiff to Reading covers a distance of 153 km and takes approximately 1h 22m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Reading is 153 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Reading leaves at 5:07.
The last train from Cardiff to Reading departs at 23:28.
Trains from Cardiff to Reading run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Reading. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Reading.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Reading is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
Booking trains from Cardiff to Reading 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 Reading offers views of the picturesque Welsh countryside, the Severn Estuary, and charming rural landscapes in the South West of England, making it a pleasant and scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Reading
Most Cardiff to Reading trains use the Cardiff Central to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Reading West. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Reading 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 Reading
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.
Which Reading station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Reading most often arrive at Reading. Some services arrive at Reading West, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Reading arrival station.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · £2 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre
Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · £0.89 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · £2 · every ~49 min
Reading West train station facilities and services
Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading West.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading West: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Reading
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