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Each fare is the lowest adult economy ticket fare found by our customers on Trainline. Fares booked further in advance than the dates displayed may be cheaper. Prices are updated daily, subject to change and indicative of price last update. Limited availability. Discount cards and coach journeys excluded, prices exclusive of booking fee.
Trains to Cardiff Central from Reading
It takes an average of 1h 46m to travel from Reading to Cardiff Central by train, over a distance of around 95 miles (153 km). There are normally 74 trains per day travelling from Reading to Cardiff Central and tickets for this journey start from £27 when you book in advance.
| First train | 04:49 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:27 | |
| Departure station | Reading | |
| Arrival station | Cardiff Central | |
| Journey time | From 1h 23m | |
| Distance | 95 miles (153 km) | |
| Frequency | 74 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £27 | |
| Train operators |
Trains to Cardiff Central from Reading
Want to travel from Reading to Cardiff Central by train? Start your journey with us.
It takes an average of 1 hour 46 minutes to travel from Reading to Cardiff Central by train. You'll find on average 74 trains per day running on this route.
Trains are direct, so once you’re on board you can sit back and relax.
Great Western Railway trains run on this route.
The journey from Reading to Cardiff Central starts at £27.00. Generally, booking Advance train tickets works out cheaper.
See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.
What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Reading to Cardiff Central?
Want to know more about your journey from Reading to Cardiff Central? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Is there a direct train from Reading to Cardiff Central?
How far is Cardiff Central from Reading by train?
Can I get from Reading to Cardiff Central without flying?
What is the best way to get from Reading to Cardiff Central?
When is the first train from Reading to Cardiff Central?
When is the last train from Reading to Cardiff Central?
How often do trains run from Reading to Cardiff Central?
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Looking for a return trip from Reading to Cardiff Central?
How do I find cheap train tickets from Reading to Cardiff Central?
As most UK train companies increase their prices as the departure date approaches, our Trainline team of experts have put together these tips to help you find the cheapest tickets.
1. Book in advance
Train tickets from Reading to Cardiff Central start at £27§ one way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. UK train companies usually release Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of time, and these can be cheaper than tickets bought on the day of travel.
2. Sign up to Ticket Alert
If you're planning a trip more than 12 weeks ahead, sign up to our Ticket Alert to get notified when Advance tickets are released for your travel date.
3. Use a Railcard
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel throughout the year. Buy one with us and you'll be able to store it digitally in our app, so you'll always have it on your travels.
4. Book split tickets
Our handy feature SplitSave will 'split' your train journey into multiple tickets, which can be much cheaper than buying a single ticket. Find out more about split tickets.
5. Travel Off-Peak
If you can be flexible with your travel times, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets are usually cheaper in the UK. Generally, Off-Peak times are any time at weekends and outside of Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.
6. Consider a Season Ticket
Best for commuters, if you catch a train on the same route more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly, weekly and flexi options available, find out if a Season Ticket for Reading to Cardiff Central is right for you.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.
§Advance adult single fare. Excludes booking fee. Prices seen by Trainline customers in the last 30 days. Availability limited.