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Reading to Cardiff Bay train prices and times

Looking to travel from Reading to Cardiff Bay? You can buy train tickets with Trip.com for as low as SAR 140.95, with average prices for this route around SAR 140.95.

To get the best deals, we' d recommend buying in advance and researching alternatives such as split tickets.

DepartsArrivesOperator
Find Tickets
23:27
7h 9m, No direct
Reading
06:36
+1
Cardiff Bay
Great Western RailwayTransport for Wales
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Reading to Cardiff Bay train route details

First train
First train
00:05
Last train
Last train
23:27
Departure station
Departure station
Reading
Arrival station
Arrival station
Cardiff Bay
Journey time
Journey time
1h 41m
Distance
Distance
152 km
Price
Price
SAR 140.95*
Train Operators
Train Operators
CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Transport for Wales

How to book cheap train tickets from Reading to Cardiff Bay

Travelling in off-peak train times

Travelling in off-peak train times

Off-Peak train tickets are generally cheaper than peak-time tickets, allowing travel outside morning (06:30-09:30) and evening (16:00-19:00) rush hours on weekdays. If your schedule allows for flexibility, choosing off-peak times for your trip from Reading to Cardiff Bay can result in significant cost savings.
Using the Railcard for 1/3 off

Using the Railcard for 1/3 off

You can choose a Railcard to help you save up to 1/3 on fares from Reading to Cardiff Bay for various reasons, such as your age (including the 16-25 Railcard or Senior Railcard) or options geared towards group travel (Family & Friends Railcard and Two Together Railcard). Discover more here.
Split Tickets to save an average extra 30%

Split Tickets to save an average extra 30%

Another option to consider is splitting your tickets, which can save you around extra 30% on fares. Instead of purchasing a direct ticket from Reading to Cardiff Bay, you can split the route into two legs: A to C and C to B. This often turns out to be more affordable than buying a direct ticket, and you won’t even need to leave the train… or often your seat!.
Book in advance to save an average of 61%

Book in advance to save an average of 61%

Did you know that purchasing Advance Tickets can significantly reduce your travel expenses? On average, these tickets can save you an impressive 61% on fares. The best part is that the earlier you book (ideally up to 12 weeks in advance), the greater the savings!
Group travels to save 1/3

Group travels to save 1/3

If you are planning a trip with a group of three to nine people, take advantage of ⅓ off standard fares with group travel discounts, offered by many train companies, perfect for journeys with your family, friends, or colleagues.

Reading to Cardiff Bay train ticket types

There are various ticket types available for this route, each with different benefits and restrictions. Explore below to see which ticket type is best suited to your travel needs:

Why Book Train Tickets With Trip.com?

  • Split Tickets

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  • Split Tickets

    Split Tickets

    Save an average of 30% on train fares by splitting your Reading to Cardiff Bay journey
  • Split Tickets

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  • Split Tickets

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*After comparing the full year of 2023 for Split tickets and full-price tickets on Trip.com, the average savings rate for Split tickets is 30%.