Reading to Cardiff from $16: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Reading to Cardiff: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$16 RideshareBest price

111 milesDistance

1h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reading to Cardiff with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Reading to Cardiff

Traveling from Reading to Cardiff offers a shift from the charming architecture and riverside parks of a bustling town to the vibrant culture and dynamic waterfront of Wales’ capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

Cardiff boasts diverse neighborhoods that each offer something special.

Cardiff Bay

• Stunning waterfront views and vibrant dining options.

• Home to the iconic Wales Millennium Centre.

Pontcanna

• Quaint streets lined with independent shops and cafes.

• Beautiful parks perfect for leisurely strolls.

Cathays

• A youthful vibe with a lively arts scene.

• Close proximity to Cardiff University and its attractions.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cardiff's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Cardiff Castle

Early morning visits reveal fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere.

National Museum Cardiff

Weekday afternoons often see lighter foot traffic, allowing for easier exploration.

Cardiff Bay

Late afternoon offers a stunning sunset view, perfect for photography.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, making it a year-round destination. To enjoy outdoor activities and local festivities, visiting during late spring or early autumn often offers the most pleasant weather.

Dining Recommendation in Cardiff

Try the traditional Welsh dish, cawl, at The Potted Pig, where the rustic atmosphere and seasonal local ingredients create an inviting dining experience. Unlike the more familiar options in Reading, the rich flavors and unique culinary heritage of Wales add a distinctive twist to your meal.

Reading - Cardiff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reading and Cardiff, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+44 3457 000 125

Website

https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Reading to Cardiff Central

Average Duration

1h 21m

Estimated price

$65-140

Other Show other routes

Contact phone

+3 318 576 2228

Website

blablacar.com

Reading to Cardiff: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Reading and Cardiff offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Experience a scenic journey as you drive 178.6 km from Reading to Cardiff, taking approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes to reach your destination. 💷 Prices for a car trip from Reading to Cardiff range from £28 to £43, offering cost-effective travel options for your convenience.

Average price

£27 - £43

🚆 Embark on a seamless journey from Reading to Cardiff by catching a direct train operated by First Great Western Service. 🌉 Sit back and relax during the 1 hour and 21-minute scenic train ride from Reading to Cardiff. 💷 Ticket prices for the Reading to Cardiff train range from £51 to £111, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget preferences. Whether for business or leisure, this efficient train route is a popular choice for a hassle-free travel experience between these two vibrant cities in the UK.

Departure Point

Reading station

Arrival Point

Cardiff Central station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your train journey from Reading to Cardiff, you will have access to catering services on board, usually provided by Great Western Railway (GWR). On most trains, you'll find a range of snacks and beverages available for purchase at the seat, including hot meals, sandwiches, and a selection of drinks. During peak hours, there might be a trolley service that comes through the carriage offering refreshments.

• The train operators on this route typically include Great Western Railway (GWR) and CrossCountry. GWR offers both First Class and Standard seating options, while CrossCountry offers Standard and First Class as well. First Class provides more spacious seats with additional legroom and complimentary refreshments, while Standard seating is comfortable and suitable for general travel. More information can be found at GWR and CrossCountry.

• When you arrive at Cardiff Central Station, note that there are facilities for luggage storage available through a left luggage service, which operates during the station’s opening hours. Additionally, there are clean restroom facilities on-site. To navigate Cardiff easily after your arrival, the fastest way to get to the city center is by using the Cardiff Castle bus service (Bus number 6) that departs directly outside the station and runs frequently to the central parts of the city.

🚌 Route 1: The journey from Reading to Cardiff by bus takes approximately 4 hours and 27 minutes covering a distance of 269 km. You'll have a transfer with the first step being a bus to Heathrow Airport and then a second bus towards Swansea, operated by RailAir and National Express respectively. 🚆 Route 2: Alternatively, you can opt for a train journey which will take about 1 hour and 23 minutes to reach Cardiff from Reading. The 175 km journey involves a single step train ride towards Swansea operated by GWR, departing from Reading and arriving at Cardiff Central. 🚌 Route 3: Another bus option entails a 4 hours and 37 minutes trip covering 282 km with a transfer through Heathrow Airport. The first bus heads to Heathrow Terminal 2 Arrivals followed by a second bus towards Cardiff, operated by RailAir and megabus respectively.

Useful tips for bus travellers

• For the bus transfer from Reading to Heathrow, ensure you check the RailAir schedule ahead of time to avoid long wait times, especially since the bus takes about 43 minutes; visit railair.com for timings.

• If you choose the National Express option from Heathrow to Cardiff (which takes about 3 hours 15 minutes), consider booking your ticket in advance online at nationalexpress.com for better rates and guaranteed seating.

• Upon arrival at Cardiff Sophia Gardens, be aware that it is a central location with easy access to public transport; take a moment to look at the station map for buses and taxis that can take you further into the city; you can find it at cardiff.gov.uk

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Reading to Cardiff.

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The distance between Reading and Cardiff is approximately 154.5 km via road, with the road distance being 178.6 km. If you're traveling by train, it takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to reach Cardiff from Reading. Alternatively, by car, it takes around 1 hour and 56 minutes to travel from Cardiff to Reading, whereas by bus, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes from Reading to Cardiff.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Reading to Cardiff is by train. It takes only 1 hour and 27 minutes and the cost ranges from £48 to £111. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option, you can consider ridesharing which takes 2 hours and 20 minutes and costs only £12.

When traveling from Reading to Cardiff, the prices for a train ticket can range from £48 to £111. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket from Cardiff to Reading typically range from £21 to £30.

To get from Reading to Cardiff without using public transportation, you can consider using Blablacar's carpooling service for rideshare options. It's a convenient option if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Reading and Cardiff is 178.6 km, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes to drive. The prices for carpooling services range from £28 to £44, depending on the specific arrangements made.

The most convenient and efficient way to travel from Reading to Cardiff without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes, and ticket prices range from £48 to £111.

Yes, there is a direct link between Reading and Cardiff. The fastest and most convenient option is to take the train, which takes approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes. Trains depart hourly and operate every day. If you prefer, there is also an overnight bus service that takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes.

There are numerous options for accommodation near Cardiff. With over 1134 hotels available, there is something to fit every budget and preference. Prices start at £33 and vary depending on the location and amenities.