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The cheapest and fastest trains from Oxford to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jan 20
Cheapest price
€135
Average price
€148
Fastest journey
1 h 43 m
Average duration
2 h 1 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
136 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Oxford to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Oxford to Cardiff will cost around €148 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €135.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Oxford to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
P22685 · P2261707:25AM1h43
Oxford station (OXF)09:08AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1351One-way
1 transfer
P32658 · P22753 · P2261606:34AM2h05
Oxford station (OXF)08:39AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1351One-way
2 transfers
P32662 · P22754 · P2261807:34AM2h02
Oxford station (OXF)09:36AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1351One-way
2 transfers
P22843 · P2261907:53AM2h16
Oxford station (OXF)10:09AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1621One-way
1 transfer
P22842 · P2261807:30AM2h06
Oxford station (OXF)09:36AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1621One-way
1 transfer
P22685 · P2261707:25AM1h43
Oxford station (OXF)09:08AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1351One-way
1 transfer
P32662 · P22754 · P2261807:34AM2h02
Oxford station (OXF)09:36AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1351One-way
2 transfers
P32658 · P22753 · P2261606:34AM2h05
Oxford station (OXF)08:39AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1351One-way
2 transfers
P22842 · P2261807:30AM2h06
Oxford station (OXF)09:36AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1621One-way
1 transfer
P22841 · P2261606:31AM2h08
Oxford station (OXF)08:39AMCardiff Central (CDF)
€1621One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Oxford to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oxford to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 6m. 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 €22, and a train costs an average of €37.
Distance: 136 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€77 Average price | €35 Average price Cheapest |
2h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration 5h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Oxford to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Oxford to Cardiff trains for today, Monday, January 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 10:55 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:04 PM Oxford | 2h30 | 2:34 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:34 PM Oxford | 2h02 | 6:36 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, January 20 | |||||
| P22841 · P22616 | On time 6:31 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h08 | 8:39 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| P32658 · P22753 · P22616 | On time 6:34 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h05 | 8:39 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| P22685 · P22617 | On time 7:25 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 1h43 | 9:08 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| P22842 · P22618 | On time 7:30 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h06 | 9:36 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| P32662 · P22754 · P22618 | On time 7:34 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h02 | 9:36 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| P22843 · P22619 | On time 7:53 AM Oxford station (OXF) | 2h16 | 10:09 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Oxford to Cardiff 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Oxford to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Oxford to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €37 but you can travel from only €22 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:04, the last at 23:07. The fastest train covers the 136 km distance in 1h 30m.
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 €22
Distance 136 km |
Average train duration 2h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price €37 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 1h 30m |
First train 05:04 |
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 €22
Train companies: Great Western Rail, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western from Oxford to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Rail, CrossCountry, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Oxford and Cardiff from €22. 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 35m
Cheapest Price
€54
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 41m
Cheapest Price
€66
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
1h 54m
Cheapest Price
€144
Cross Country frequency
3 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
€118
first_great_western frequency
14 a day
FAQs: Trains from Oxford to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oxford to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The train time from Oxford to Cardiff is on average 2 h 4 min for the 136 km long journey, but the time it takes to go between Oxford and Cardiff by train can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Oxford to Cardiff leaves at 07: 04. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Oxford to Cardiff leaves at 21: 06.
There are 27 trains a day from Oxford to Cardiff which require at least one change with CrossCountry or Great Western Rail. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
Take the Oxford to Cardiff train with CrossCountry or Great Western Rail. However, it's always good to check out all possible train companies for the trip to Cardiff from Oxford as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 21: 06.
When departing from Oxford, you have various train station options to start your journey from including Oxford, Oxford Parkway and Oxford, Magdalen Road. When arriving in Cardiff, you can end your trip in train stations like Cardiff Central and Cardiff Queen Street.
Passengers board the train most frequently from Oxford, which is located around 1.2 miles (1.9 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cardiff Central, located 1.1 miles (1.8 km) away from the city centre.
The cheapest month for a train from Oxford to Cardiff is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Oxford and Cardiff including taking a coach or train.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Oxford to Cardiff
Oxford
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Oxford is Oxford. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Oxford for your trip from Oxford to Cardiff.
Oxford
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 20:00 Saturday 07:30 - 20:00 Sunday 07:15 - 20:00 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations can only be sold between 09:00 and 18:00
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and an overbridge to access platform 4. Safety warning - Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please request staff assistance or call our free help line for.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Situated by the ticket office.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Station Concourse. The National key toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Car park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Oxford
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From station forecourt in front of station
Oxford Parkway
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:30 - 20:00 Saturday 06:00 - 20:00 Sunday 07:00 - 16:00
Distance to city center
5 kmAccessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to platforms via lifts.
- Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Within the station building
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Dedicated area on station forecourt
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 03456 005 165
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Oxford Parkway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses depart from the front of the station or from the Park & Ride bus stop.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from Oxford.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Ninian Park
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Ninian Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
Cardiff Queen Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Most popular train connections from Oxford
More options for your journey from Oxford to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Oxford
Most popular train connections to Cardiff
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