- 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 Carmarthen to Reading
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 06 Sept
Cheapest price on 06 Sept
£139
Average ticket price on 06 Sept
£143
Fastest journey on 06 Sept
3 h 10 m
Average journey duration on 06 Sept
3 h 11 m
Trains on 06 Sept
16
Distance
234 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Carmarthen to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carmarthen to Reading will cost around £143 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £139.
Fast trains
On Sun 06 Sept, we found 16 trains from Carmarthen to Reading, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 234 km distance in an average of 3 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 14 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.
9:343h10Carmarthen12:44Reading£1391One-way1 change- 10:343h10Carmarthen13:44Reading£1391One-way1 change
- 12:323h12Carmarthen15:44Reading£1391One-way1 change
- 14:273h17Carmarthen17:44Reading£1391One-way1 change
- 15:083h36Carmarthen18:44Reading£1391One-way1 change
- 9:343h10Carmarthen12:44Reading£1391One-way1 change
- 10:343h10Carmarthen13:44Reading£1391One-way1 change
- 13:343h10Carmarthen16:44Reading£1411One-way1 change
- 12:323h12Carmarthen15:44Reading£1391One-way1 change
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16:303h14Carmarthen19:44Reading£1521One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Carmarthen to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carmarthen to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £36 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 30m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £36, while a train costs an average of £52.
Distance: 234 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£52 Average Price | £36 Average Price Cheapest | £46 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 45m Average total duration 7h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Carmarthen to Reading is a coach with an average price of £36.
This is compared to other travel options from Carmarthen to Reading:
A coach is £16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Carmarthen to Reading costing on average £52.
The fastest way to travel from Carmarthen to Reading is by train with an average journey time of 4h 0m.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Coach takes on average 7h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carmarthen and Reading including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £52 compared to roughly £46 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-6.13. The journey takes 4h 0m versus 3h 9m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Carmarthen to Reading 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.
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06 Sept
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Why should you book Carmarthen to Reading trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Carmarthen to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carmarthen to Reading.
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 Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Carmarthen to Reading.
- 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 Carmarthen to Reading.
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 Carmarthen to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Carmarthen to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Carmarthen to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £52 but you can travel from only £36 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:37, the last at 22:13. The fastest train covers the 234 km distance in 4h 15m.
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 £36
Distance 234 km |
Average train duration 4h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price £52 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 4h 15m |
First train 4:37 |
Last train 22:13 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 £36
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales from Carmarthen to Reading trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales trains will get you between Carmarthen and Reading from £36. 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
4h 15m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£52
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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
3h 14m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
£144
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
7 a day
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£124
Transport for Wales frequency
9 a day
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.
FAQs: Carmarthen to Reading train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carmarthen 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 Carmarthen to Reading can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £52, while the average price tends to be around £52.
The train journey from Carmarthen to Reading covers a distance of 234 km and takes approximately 4h 15m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Carmarthen to Reading is 234 km.
The first train from Carmarthen to Reading leaves at 4:37.
The last train from Carmarthen to Reading departs at 22:13.
Trains from Carmarthen to Reading run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Carmarthen to Reading.
Yes, there is a direct train between Carmarthen and Reading. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway (GWR).
To get from Carmarthen to Reading, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Carmarthen to Reading.
The train station in Carmarthen that goes to Reading is Carmarthen station (CMN), and it arrives at Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Carmarthen to Reading is by coach, costing approximately £36.
Booking trains from Carmarthen 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 Carmarthen to Reading offers passengers views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and occasional glimpses of the coastline, making it a pleasant and scenic experience.
A day trip from Carmarthen to Reading is not feasible as the journey time is 4h 15m. Trains run 5 times per day for the 234 km route.
To fully explore Reading's attractions, two to three days are ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Carmarthen to Reading.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Carmarthen and Reading
Most Carmarthen to Reading trains use the Carmarthen to Reading station pair, with some services arriving at Tilehurst. Use this guide to compare Carmarthen and Reading train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Carmarthen
Arrival train stations in Reading
Which Carmarthen station do trains to Reading leave from?
Trains from Carmarthen to Reading leave from Carmarthen. The station is from Carmarthen city centre at Carmarthen station, Station Road, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire, SA31 2BE.
CarmarthenCarmarthen station, Station Road, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire, SA31 2BE+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Carmarthen from Carmarthen city centre
BusT1x, T1, T1a · 3m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Carmarthen train station facilities and services
Carmarthen has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, 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 Carmarthen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carmarthen.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carmarthen: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Carmarthen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carmarthen: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access is available to Platform 1. Platform 2 can be accessed via the ramp at the end of Platform 1 and across a foot crossing, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Reading station do trains from Carmarthen arrive at?
Trains from Carmarthen to Reading most often arrive at Reading. Some services arrive at Tilehurst, 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.
TilehurstTilehurst station, Oxford Road, Tilehurst, Berkshire, RG31 6TH+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Tilehurst from Reading city centre
Tilehurst is 4 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Paddington - Didcot Parkway, Reading - Didcot Parkway · 3m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 16m · £2 · every ~18 min
16, 85, 88, 18, 93, 43 · 19m · £2 · every ~18 min
Tilehurst train station facilities and services
Tilehurst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Tilehurst.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Tilehurst.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tilehurst.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tilehurst: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Tilehurst: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tilehurst: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Carmarthen
More options for your journey from Carmarthen to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Carmarthen
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