Cardiff to Oxford train with Great Western Rail

Wed, Dec 03
+ Add return
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
Cross Country
first_great_western
Transport for Wales
1,000+ travel companies
Great Western Rail
CrossCountry
Cross Country
first_great_western
Transport for Wales
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Oxford

Showing times and prices for Dec 04

Cheapest price

€55

Average price

€56

Fastest journey

1 h 47 m

Average duration

1 h 58 m

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 traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Oxford will cost around €56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €55.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Cardiff for Oxford on Thu, Dec 04, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Dec 04 the direct trains cover the 136 km distance in an average of 1 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 47 m .

On Thu, Dec 04 the slowest trains will take 2 h 3 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 Rail
06:18PM1h59
Cardiff
08:17PMOxford
551One-way
0 transfers
Great Western Rail
09:50AM2h02
Cardiff
11:52AMOxford
561One-way
0 transfers
Great Western Rail
08:28AM2h24
Cardiff
10:52AMOxford
561One-way
0 transfers
Great Western Rail
11:18AM1h57
Cardiff
01:15PMOxford
561One-way
0 transfers
Great Western Rail
08:49AM2h03
Cardiff
10:52AMOxford
561One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus 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 bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 8m. 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 bus costs an average of €23, and a train costs an average of €54.

Distance: 136 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€58

Average price

€39

Average price

Cheapest

2h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 44m

Average total duration

4h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Great Western Rail

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, Wednesday, December 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:00 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
great_westernP08478 · P08175 · P09458
On time
8:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1h47
10:24 AM Oxford station (OXF)
2 transfers
great_westernP08478+cross_countryC23387
On time
8:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h00
10:37 AM Oxford station (OXF)
1 transfer
great_westernP08479+cross_countryC23392
On time
9:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h19
11:38 AM Oxford station (OXF)
1 transfer
great_westernP08480 · P09460
On time
9:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h03
11:52 AM Oxford station (OXF)
1 transfer
great_westernP08481+cross_countryC23397
On time
10:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h20
12:38 PM Oxford station (OXF)
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Oxford by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Thu
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Sun
Dec 14
Mon
Dec 15
Tue
Dec 16
Wed
Dec 17

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 7 times per day, taking around 2h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €54 but you can travel from only €23 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:55, 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
Bus from €23
Distance
136 km
Average train duration
2h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
€54
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
1h 40m
First train
03:55
Last train
23:07
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
Bus from €23

Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western, Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Oxford trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Oxford from €23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Rail

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
€37
Great Western Rail frequency
7 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

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
€56
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest Price
€176
Cross Country frequency
1 a day

first_great_western

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 36m
Cheapest Price
€116
first_great_western frequency
23 a day

Transport for Wales

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Price
€152
Transport for Wales frequency
1 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: Trains from Cardiff to Oxford

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
Cheap train tickets from Cardiff to Oxford can start from as little as €35 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cardiff to Oxford is €55; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Cardiff to Oxford train travel time is 1 h 40 min   for the 136 km long route, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cardiff to Oxford leaves at 03: 55. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Cardiff to Oxford leaves at 23: 07.
There are 7 trains a day from Cardiff to Oxford which require at least one change with Great Western Rail, CrossCountry or first_great_western. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
When taking a train from Cardiff to Oxford, you can count on Great Western Rail, CrossCountry or first_great_western for the best way to get you to Oxford. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Oxford and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 23: 07.
A day trip to Oxford from Cardiff is worth doing with a journey time of 1 h 40 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Cardiff to Oxford by train is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel to Oxford from Cardiff including taking a train or coach.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Oxford

Cardiff
Oxford
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your trip from Cardiff to Oxford.
BirchgroveParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Birchgrove
  • Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Cardiff BayParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
  • 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.
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Bay
  • Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
CathaysParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
Hotel
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
  • Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Oxford

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

HomeTrainsTrain Times to OxfordCardiff to Oxford train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone